Learn To Homebrew Day

So, as we all know, or should know, The American Homebrewers Association's Learn To Homebrew day was November 2nd this year, 2013. People all over the country had set up events or even just something as simple as inviting their friends over for a lesson. Breweries, homebrew shops, etc etc etc. Just who ever wanted to share the love of homebrew.



For those of you who were not able to go out or had no events in your area, this year The Craft Beer Nation set up a hangout to briefly talk about homebrewing, the ingredients, and things you might need to get started. You can watch that video here. The Beer Fairy - Ashley, and I showed up to talk about all that. I hope we answered most basic questions but if you are watching you and you have further question, feel free to ask here, Twitter, or on Google+.



For Learn To Homebrew Day I figured I would make a new beer for Christmas. One I have been wanting to do and trying to figure out for a few years. Eggnog is one of my favorite drinks and I am disappointed that without making it yourself you can only get it at one time of the year. So, hopefully, finally I am able to get this Eggnog Milk Stout to work. The only way I thought to accomplish it was to use Lactose, Nutmeg, Cinnamon, and Vanilla Bean... maybe I will add some Vanilla when I keg it. I guess it depends the character I want/get.



The brewday went off without a hitch. Honestly, a very simple brew. One hop addition for bittering, simple mash, and a 60 minute boil. I considered doing it for 90 minutes but I didn't. I came in a few points low but that could be because I was aiming for 1.088 I think... I'd have to look at my notes instead of thinking off the top of my head. I added all my spices and lactose at the 5 minute remaining mark because it was suggested to me that any earlier and I would lose the aromatic quality of my spices. Not what I want to do at all!



So yea, once it ferments out I will take my first sips and report back how it taste. I hope I hit the mark and can finally have another form of eggnog!



Cheers!