EZ-Brew
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Any good beer making kits out there?

My boyfriend wants a beer making kit for Christmas. Any suggestions for a good one? I'm afraid he'll end up with some crappy tasting beer or a cheap kit that doesn't even work right. I don't want to spend a whole lot on this. Or would I be better off just ordering the things needed?...whatever they are!

Public Comments

1. homebrewers.com

They have the best with all the ingredients

2. no

3. the kits do tend to save you a little.

yes, there are some good kits, i would recommend a good company, like midwest, link following, they have a variety of kits and prices, depending on what you want to brew.

there are also local brewing places, many of whome will either sell kits, or assemble a kit for a savings for you on the spot, but you would have to give us your location to give you specifics for that info.

just DON'T go with a Mr. Beer!

4. Google the local homebrew supply in your area. Or visit http://www.beertown.org/apps/shops/index.aspx

A good kit will run you $75-100 dollars. Be sure your kit comes with a glass carboy; if it doesn't have one, buy it separately.

5. check out www.northernbrewer.com

6. Stay away from Mr Beer and similar kits. You want one that will handle a 5-gallon batch. I started with Brewer's Best and was very happy with it. One nice thing about getting him started on home brewing is that you will never be at a loss for something to buy him. There is always new equipment or the supplies needed to make a batch of beer.

If you are strapped for cash (who isn't these days?) you could get him some books and let him put together his own equipment kit. Some suggestions:
Papazian: New Complete Guide to Home Brewing (best general book) $12.
Nachel: Homebrewing for Dummies (a close second)
Brew Ware (for the do-it-yourselfer who can build equipment)
Kunath: Fearless Brewing (poor for instructions but great tables.)