Edibles

The Complete Joy of Homebrewing

Best one-volume homebrewing guide

There is not a better introduction to the universe of homebrewing than The Complete Joy of Homebrewing by Charles Papazian. It covers history, equipment, ingredients, chemistry, beer styles, and methods, while appendices cover various topics from recipe formulation to mead-making. I’ve used this guide quite extensively in my first batches of homebrew beer and I still consult it on occasion, especially as inspiration for experimentation. It also contains enough advanced topics to lead me in the right direction when I want to learn more.

Other introductory books to brewing are published but this one is the ideal integration of simplicity and thoroughness. Experienced brewers may find the book rather “incomplete” on advanced issues, but online resources and brew clubs are better sources of advanced information than most books.

Papazian’s passion for beer brewing will pique the interest of any brewer, regardless of expertise and experience. His enthusiasm has even pushed commercial brewers to experiment with new procedures and ingredients. For instance, in a passing comment in the 2nd edition, Papazian mentioned maple beers and now maple beers are brewed at several brewpubs.

What is perhaps most important about the book is the philosophy behind it. Papazian’s recurrent admonition is to “Relax, Don’t Worry, Have a Homebrew.” We can’t control everything in home brewing. It represents a whole perspective on beer, the universe, and everything.

-- Alexandre Enkerli 12/15/20

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