The holidays are here, and for many folks that means it’s gift giving time. Shopping for loved ones can be difficult enough,but shopping for a homebrewer can be especially tough. Every homebrewer is different, and most of them have a set-up that is unique to their brewing space, and brewing preferences that are unique to them. This can make it tough for those who aren’t well versed in the hobby, and the growing number of gadgets and new ingredients only adds to the problem. How do you know what they do or don’t have? How do you know what they’d even want or use? Well, fret not, for Fifth Season Gardening Company has compiled a list of gifts that almost every brewer can use!
Carboy Dryer
I have found carboy dryers to be an indispensable addition to my collection of brewing knicknacks. They make drying glass and plastic carboys much easier and safer than any method I was previously employing. The fact that you are able to store the arboys upright and stable means they dry faster and can often be placed somewhere less intrusive. The Homebrew Hacks blog post also discusses how they can be used for a more efficient cleaning!
Cleanser/Sanitizer
I know that a brewing cleanser or sanitizer isn’t the most exciting or enticing gift in the world. However, every brewer uses them and every brewer will thank you for some backups. One Step is an excellent cleaner for everyday brews and P.B.W. will take care of the really tough grime. If you want to go the sanitizer route then I recommend Star San. It’s an industry favorite and an excellent and easy to use product.
Speidel fermentor
Speidel fermentors are one of the newest and coolest additions to the wide world of fermentation vessels. They offer a wide range of built-in benefits and come in an equally impressive range of sizes. A wide top for easy cleaning, a built in spigot for samples and transferring, and an oversized airlock and bung are just a few of the reasons to spring for one of these bad boys.
Refractometer
A refractometer is one of those gadgets that helps take a brewer to the next level. They require markedly less liquid than a hydrometer to test gravity, and they’re not nearly as fragile. Having a refractometer on hand also makes taking quick gravity readings during a mash or boil a breeze!
Brewing Better Beer
This book by Gordon Strong makes an invaluable addition to any brewer’s library. Strong is an award winning homebrewer and offers a wealth of practical advice. The beauty of Brewing Better Beer is that it has something to offer for people at every level of the hobby.
We hope that this list makes you feel a little bit more comfortable with the idea of picking out something for that homebrewer you know. This list of boss gifts should put you well ahead of the curve. If you’re still not sure about what to do then you can always get a gift card!
Grow Hero says
What a great idea for the holidays! There are so many people who love to drink and would be interested in putting together a home brew from an easy to use kit! This is going on my shopping list. Thanks!