Episode 167 | Applying The Science: Mr. Wizard's Wisdom
Aug 7, 2024
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Jordan Folks, a Brülosophy contributor, joins brewing veteran Ashton 'Mr. Wizard' Lewis, who boasts 30 years of industry experience. They dive into the evolution of home brewing, discussing how techniques have transformed alongside technological advancements. The pair share personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of community knowledge. Key topics include the balancing act of dry hopping and yeast, the rise of new beer styles, and the interplay of science and creativity in brewing innovation. It's a celebration of the art and science of beer-making!
The introduction of the I10 Mango Steenie yeast strain exemplifies the fusion of science and creativity in modern brewing.
Despite advancements over the years, the fundamental challenges faced by home brewers today often mirror those from three decades ago.
Future brewing practices are poised to evolve through sustainability initiatives and technological innovations, including AI and genetic modifications.
Deep dives
Introduction of I10 Mango Steenie
The episode introduces I10 Mango Steenie, a new proprietary yeast strain developed through hybridization. This strain showcases excellent attenuation and a quick reduction of diacetyl, along with distinctive tropical fruit flavors, such as mango, strawberry, and lychee. Its unique Kefik hybrid status allows fermentation across a wide temperature range, from 78 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, without compromising flavor quality. This versatility makes it a valuable choice for brewers looking to create vibrant, fruity IPAs.
Evolution of Home Brewing Practices
The podcast delves into the dramatic evolution of home brewing over the past three decades, highlighting how advancements in technology and science have transformed the craft. While fundamental processes like mashing and fermentation remain similar, the tools and ingredients available today, such as all-in-one brewing systems and high-quality yeast, enable brewers to experiment with greater precision and creativity. This suggests that despite some traditional methods persisting, the craft has significantly modernized in terms of efficiency and creativity. Aspiring brewers today have access to a wealth of resources and innovations that were unavailable to their predecessors.
Questions Constantly Asked in Brewing
A significant insight shared is that many questions home brewers ask today echo those asked 30 years ago, indicating fundamental challenges that remain persistent in the brewing world. Aspects like efficiency, fermentation temperatures, and ingredient choices continue to pique the interest of both novice and experienced brewers alike. Even with advances in technology, fundamental brewing principles often require revisiting and re-evaluating the traditional practices to adapt to new information and techniques. This ongoing quest for knowledge emphasizes the importance of community resources, like publications, workshops, and discussions that support brewers in navigating these timeless questions.
The Role of Creativity in Brewing
The podcast explores the balance between art and science in brewing, emphasizing that a thorough understanding of science informs the creative process. By mastering the fundamental processes of brewing, brewers gain the ability to experiment and innovate with confidence, exploring new styles and flavors. This conversation highlights the importance of experimentation in brewing, as creativity can lead to exciting new products and methods that diverge from traditional practices. Ultimately, successful brewing relies on this harmonious relationship between the scientific basis and personal artistry.
Future Trends in Brewing
Looking toward the future, the episode discusses how sustainability and technological advancements will shape the brewing industry. Both climate change and advancements like genetically modified organisms (GMOs) present new challenges and opportunities for brewers in sourcing raw ingredients. The integration of AI and data analysis could further enhance brewing practices by streamlining process management and improving resource efficiency. These discussions underscore the importance of innovation in the brewing community as it navigates environmental issues while seeking to deliver exceptional beers.
Brülosophy contributor Jordan Folks joins Cade in the lab to chat about the information discussed in last week's episode where Ashton "Mr. Wizard" Lewis discussed his experience over the last 30 years in the brewing industry.
The Brü Lab is brought to you by Imperial Yeast who provide brewers with the most viable and fresh yeast on the market. Learn more about what Imperial Yeast has to offer at ImperialYeast.com today.
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