Yesterday I posted a question on /r/homebrewing to see if the homebrewers of Reddit had to all start over, would they start with either a 5 gallon extract brewing setup, or 1 gallon all-grain brewing setup.
To my surprise, the overwhelming majority said neither!
That’s right! The majority of the community who responded to my comment said they would start over with a 3-gallon Brew in a Bag (BIAB) setup. Their reasons varied, but some common reasons included:
- Same equipment at 5 gallon, so no need to purchase more equipment to up-size batches (maybe larger boil kettle?)
- Nice yield for the effort required…
- …but not too much, making experimentation easier, and allowing for more creativity
- Less beer = less time for oxidation = fresher beer!
- Small enough for stove-top or apartment brewing
- You get to make beer from the raw ingredients!
So… if you’re considering getting into homebrewing as a hobby, and wanted to ask the folks at /r/homebrewing for advice, they would point you towards a 3-gallon BIAB setup.
Here are a few links, if you’re interested in learning more about the BIAB method, or purchasing some equipment:
This 3 Gallon BIAB Kit might be a good option for the beginning brewer.
- My comment on Reddit asking, “5 gallon or 1 gallon?”
- Brewer’s Friend article on the BIAB Method
- Northern Brewer’s 3-Gallon BIAB System and Starter Kit
- Urban Brewery’s 3 Gallon Homebrewing Kit
Cheers, and happy brewing!
Ian