Ingrediant Kits and "Is it beer without hops?"

[newtobrew]

Hey Gang,

I have been looking at ingrediant kits online, and I wonder what members think of Mr. Beer beer kits? Not only do they have beer kits, but they also some great sounding hard cider kits as well. The thing that is appealing about Mr. Beer, is the fact that these kits brew only 2 gallons, and as a newbie, they sound really easy to brew. Don't know if I like that keg lookin' fermenter though.

Also, if you brew with no hops, are you still brewing beer?

Thanks,

MJ

[Tankard]

There are hops, they are already mixed in with the extract that you will receive in those kits.

Generally, the quality of the beer you will get from Mr. Beer is significantly less than what you would produce with real extract kits. I have heard of some people having success with Mr. Beer, but only after changing the recipe around. For instance, you won't want to add sugar to the fermenter like those recipes suggest. Most people buy actual extract and add it to the kits for better quality.

Personally, I think you would be better off starting with a basic equipment kit and producing a 5 gallon extract batch. 5 gallons goes a lot quicker than you think it would, especially after all your friends and family try some of your beer. You don't want your first batch to be below mediocre because it may discourage you from continuing on with the hobby. There's nothing more satisfying than producing great beer your first try.

[Barley-Davidson]

I'm with tank on this one. You'll likely get a better result using a recipe kit from your local homebrew shop, or one of the online shops (northern brewer, austin homebrew, and morebeer are just a few).
Borrow some gear from your brother or buy a starters kit and give it a try.

That said, if you already have a Mr Beer kit or are bent on getting one, they aren't the worst thing in the world.

[PseudoChef]

Not to bash or be holier than thou, but I received a Mr. Beer kit as a gift when some family members knew I was into homebrewing. It is a waste of money to those who really want to learn the process behind brewing and such.

For those that just want to make beer on the cheap and to say they've done it, then it's a good investment.

[newtobrew]

Thanks Guys!!

I think you're correct. Basic Starter Kit, 5 gallons of beer, and no Mr. Beer beer kits.

MJ

[MrMarbleHead]

Hey welcome to the site. I agree with what the others have said as well, and just want to add that if you shop around you can find a starter kit, for just about 20-30 more then a Mr beer.

Good luck with the first one, and let us know how it is coming along.