We all have our own personal reasons, but here are a few of the most commonly invoked arguments.
- Fun: This is my primary reason for homebrewing. It’s difficult to adequately describe the personal satisfaction that comes from crushing grain one weekend and pouring a glass of my own beer a few weeks later. I genuinely enjoy every step of the process (okay, I could do without all the cleaning), and even the mistakes usually turn out drinkable at the very least.
- Creativity: Brewing brings out the artist in each of us. If malt is canvas, then hops, spices, and yeast are the paint. And since brewing is about the process as much as it is the ingredients, there are unlimited opportunities to create unique masterpieces in each and every batch.
- Freshness: Even if you live within walking distance of your favorite local craft brewery, nothing beats the freshness of beer you make in your own kitchen or garage.
- Personal preference: If your favorite beer features English grains, American hops, a Belgian yeast strain, Brettanomyces, extended oak aging, and a dash of cayenne pepper, you may be on your own. But even if nobody brews it commercially, you can brew it at home.
- No constraints: Commercial breweries have to deal with regulations that limit what they can and cannot do. For example, professional brewers can’t add distilled spirits to their beer. But you can.
- Bragging rights: When you invite friends over for dinner, you can treat them to a meal that is 100 percent homemade. Pour them a pint from your kegerator and let the compliments flow.
- Value: Well, this one’s debatable. In theory, one can save money by making beer instead of buying it. In my experience, however, making beer simply leads to buying more equipment that lets me make better beer. But those with unusual willpower can, indeed, save money, especially if their tastes lean toward the rare and exotic.
So, why do you brew?