In my latest Planet S column, I offer some advice on how to get into homebrewing. As I have said before, I have been a homebrewer for 20 years so openly admit that am a proselytizer for the hobby. With that disclaimer duly noted, I believe there are very good reasons to get into homebrewing – it is inexpensive, easy to do and frees you from the tyranny of your local liquor store’s/pub’s purchasing decisions.

I find the first thing I need to do when talking someone into homebrewing is dispel two hesitations. The first is the fear the beer will taste like bathwater. I do that by talking about sanitation. The second is that it is too hard and complex for a newbie. All I can say is thank god for pre-made quality kits like Brewhouse and Paddock Wood’s ready-brew. Once you get past those two issues, the rest is easy. After a few batches of straight-forward brewing I find most people want to start moving to intermediate techniques, like extra hop additions, partial mashes and yeast experimentation.

The Planet S article offers Saskatoon-based suggestions for beer supplies and kits, but trust me, if you live anywhere on the prairies you will be able to find a store that will get you up and running with little difficulty. If you haven’t homebrewed before I suggest you make the jump. You won’t regret it. If you are a homebrewer, invite a friend over to watch you brew. Before you know it they will be asking to borrow your grain mill and quizzing you on the proper hops for an American Brown Ale.

Read the entire Planet S article here.