FAQ

Should I buy these DVDs instead of a book on home brewing?

We believe our videos can give you what no book can: a step-by-step visual walkthrough of the process. Books have the space to go into more detail, but there's nothing like seeing a batch made right before your eyes to give you confidence in your first try. Besides, you can buy the DVDs for the overview and good home brewing books for the details, and you'll be in good shape.

What is extract brewing?

Extract brewing is the process of using malt extract, either in powder or liquid form, as one of the main ingredients of your brew. The other method that home brewers use is called 'all grain' brewing. All grain brewers start out with malted grain and go through a more elaborate process to brew beer.

Is extract brewing better than all grain?

Well, that's a tricky question, and you'll get different answers depending on who you ask. There are advantages to both sides of the fence. Extract brewing takes less time, but the ingredients are more expensive. All grain brewing takes more time, equipment, and expertise, but the ingredients are cheaper. Bottom line: if you use high quality ingredients, we think you can get good beer out of either process. It's up to you and your own personal style to choose which method you use.

Which method do you recommend to start brewing?

We believe extract brewing is a great way to get your feet wet. The process is quicker and easier, and you learn the basics like sanitation and fermentation. You can always 'graduate' to all grain brewing later, if you have the inclination, and our "Stepping into All Grain" DVD is a great guide when you do.

Is the way that is demonstrated in the DVDs the only way to brew?

Someone once said that if you ask ten homebrewers how to brew, you'll get twelve different answers. Homebrewing is a very subjective process, and there are many ways to get good results. What we show in the DVDs are the methods that we use to brew great tasting beer. Is it the only way? No.

Who do I turn to if I have specific questions about home brewing?

Your homebrew supply store people are great resources for your questions about home brewing. We can get you started, but a good relationship with a knowledgeable homebrew supplier can help you get past the basics.

Is it legal to brew your own beer?

Jimmy Carter signed a law in the 70s that made home brewing legal in the United States. However, each state has the power to regulate the hobby. Home brewing is legal in all but a few states, so you need to check your local laws before you get started. Also, you must be 21 years old to brew beer.

Who the heck are these guys, anyway?

James Spencer owns a video and audio production company in Northwest Arkansas called Active Voicing". Steve Wilkes manages the student publications at the University of Arkansas and is a fine jazz drummer in his spare time.

James and Steve have been friends for well over a decade, and they started brewing at about the same time. It seemed a natural project for the two to get together to make DVDs about their shared hobby. James leads the way on the DVDs, and Steve is there to add valuable expertise.


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