Want to build a brewery quality system in just 60 days that actually works? Brew consistent, world-class beer – start with my free Crash Course 👉 https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
On the ninth day of my first pro brewing job, a 1200L bright beer tank exploded right in front of me — and everything changed. In this deeply personal and practical episode, I break down what happened, the human and operational cost of that accident, and the exact safety system I now teach brewers to make sure no one else goes through what I did.If you care more about people than just the beer, this episode is for you.
⚠️ Learn how to:
- Spot the real risks hiding in plain sight in your brewery
- Build a proactive safety system based on 5 proven principles
- Use safety to improve not just protection — but beer quality, efficiency, and profitability
0:00 My First Job as a Pro Brewer – The Rookie Mindset
0:30 Carbonating the Bright Tank – A Routine Task That Went Horribly Wrong
3:30 The Real Danger: Pressure Vessels
4:00 How Accidents Really Happen – Swiss Cheese Theory
4:25 The Human Cost of Brewery Accidents
5:00 Safety Always Beats Quality
5:20 3 Real Brewery Accidents I’ve Witnessed
5:48 Safety Isn’t PPE – It’s a System
6:01 The 5 Principles of Brewery Safety
9:12 Involve the Team & Review Often
10:09 Safety Culture Improves Quality & Profitability
11:26 Why I Tell This Story — And My Mission
12:20 Share This Message — The Life You Save Might Be Your Own🎯
Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist?Comment “GUIDE” below or visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide
SOCIALS:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@RockstarBrewer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rockstarbrewer
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockstarbrewer
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/rockstarbrewer
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@RockstarBrewer
DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
Want to build a brewery quality system in just 60 days that actually works? Brew consistent, world-class beer – start with my free Crash Course 👉 https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
Packaging might be the final step of the beer production process, but it’s also the most critical. One misstep, one refermentation incident or exploding can complaint, and all the hard work you poured into raw materials, fermentation, and maturation can vaporize overnight. In this episode I’ll show you how top breweries protect their brand and their bottom line with a simple, systematic approach to packaging quality beer.
📌 What You’ll Learn
⏱️ Episode Chapters
🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist?
Comment “GUIDE” below or visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide
SOCIALS:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@RockstarBrewer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rockstarbrewer
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockstarbrewer
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/rockstarbrewer
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@RockstarBrewer
DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
Want to build a brewery quality system in just 60 days that actually works? Brew consistent, world-class beer - start with my free Crash Course 👉 https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
Most brewers think more caustic = more clean. But what if I told you that's a myth?
In this episode, I’ll show you how CIP isn’t just a cleaning task—it’s a critical system for producing consistent, world-class beer. I’ll share a real story from one of our Rockstar Brewer Academy members whose beer kept getting contaminated even after blasting tanks with chemicals—until we fixed one key thing.
You'll learn:
- Why your tanks might look clean but still harbour microbe risks.
- The 5 levers of effective CIP.
- How to turn your brewery’s cleaning into a repeatable, bulletproof process.
Whether you’re brewing on a 100hL system or in a garage, if you don’t have a CIP register or an approved chemicals list… this episode’s a must.👇 CHAPTERS 👇
00:00 – Intro & importance of CIP
01:42 – The myth of "more chemical = more clean"
03:00 – Simon’s story: Contamination despite heavy dosing
06:00 – Built caustic vs. pearl caustic
10:26 – The 4 battles of CIP
11:13 – The 5 dials of effective CIP
13:16 – GMP, ATP meters & brewery accountability
15:26 – Tools: Wall of Wisdom & CIP register
17:11 – Wrap-up & Rockstar Brewer Academy invitation
🎯 Want the Free 5-Step Brewery Quality Checklist?Comment “GUIDE” below or visit https://rockstarbrewer.com/guide
SOCIALS:
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@RockstarBrewerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rockstarbrewerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockstarbrewerTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/rockstarbrewerTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@RockstarBrewer--------------------DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
In this episode of the Quality-focused Pro Brewers, discover exactly how to win big at commercial beer competitions like the Australian International Beer Awards (AIBA), World Beer Cup, and European Beer Star. Hendo breaks down how professional brewers can use judge feedback to dial in process improvements and not just tweak recipes blindly.
Learn the secrets behind selecting the right styles, presenting your beers properly, avoiding common faults like oxidation or diacetyl, and turning medals into marketing gold. Plus, hear real success stories from Rockstar Brewer Academy members who boosted quality, sales, and reputation through award wins.
If you want to raise your brewery’s profile and brew beers that judges (and drinkers) love, this episode is essential listening.
00:00 – Why Some Breweries Always Win Medals00:45 – Real Story: Champion Australian Beer out of 2,400 Entries01:12 – Hendo’s Life as an International Beer Judge03:00 – How Commercial Beer Competitions Work05:00 – Where Most Brewers Get Feedback Wrong07:50 – Judging Criteria and Blind Process11:15 – Scored vs. Ranked Competitions13:15 – Using Judge Feedback for Continuous Improvement16:40 – Why Awards Matter More Than You Think19:00 – Tips for Picking Styles & Categories21:00 – Free Tools & Next Steps
Whenever you’re ready, here are 5 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer you’re proud of — whether you’re planning a new brewery or already up and running:
1⃣ Join the Quality-Focused Pro Brewers Facebook GroupI share loads of practical, pro-level brewing content in my free group: Quality-Focused Pro Brewers. No stainless steel spam. No home brewers. Just serious beer talk. https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com
2⃣ Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re sick of conflicting “research” and want to fast-track real improvements, grab this simple 5-step guide. https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide
3⃣ Get the 30-Minute Crash CourseSee exactly how top breweries build rock-solid beer quality and consistency. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to set up a system, lock in process control, and keep the creativity flowing. https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
4⃣ Apply to Join the Rockstar Brewer AcademyReady to take the next step? The Rockstar Brewer Academy is for pro brewers serious about installing proven quality systems and brewing beer they’re truly proud of — batch after batch. Spots are limited, so apply here: https://rockstarbrewer.com/apply
5⃣ Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomWant my help? Book a quick Calibration Call and let’s see how we can get you brewing more consistent, high-quality beer — fast. https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
Is pressure fermentation the secret weapon for faster, cleaner beer—or just a homebrewer gimmick?In this episode of the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast, we dig deep into the real science, risks, and rewards of pressure fermentation in a commercial brewery.
You’ll learn: What pressure fermentation actually does (and doesn’t do) The yeast physiology behind it Styles and strains it works for (and which it doesn’t) How to trial it without screwing up your beer Plus, how to avoid serious safety issues when fermenting under pressure
Download the Free Craft Brewery Yeast Propagator Build Guide: https://rockstarbrewer.com/yeastpropagator
Ready to master yeast husbandry, save 90% on yeast costs, and dial in pro fermentation systems? Book a free 15-min Calibration Call With Hendo: https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
00:00 – Is Pressure Fermentation Just a Gimmick?
01:00 – Pressure Fermentation’s Home Brewing Roots
03:02 – The Real Problem: Treating Pressure as a Shortcut
04:16 – Think of Yeast Like a Pet, Not a Product
05:34 – All the Fermentation Dials You Control
06:22 – What Pressure Fermentation Actually Does
09:32 – How to Trial Pressure Fermentation Properly
10:36 – Fit for Use + True to Brand = Your Quality Compass
11:06 – Critical Factors for a Successful Trial
12:59 – Safety Protocols for Fermenting Under Pressure
13:55 – Styles & Strains That Work With Pressure
15:36 – Styles & Strains That Don’t Work
16:35 – Side-by-Side Trials & Benefits Recap
17:24 – Free Resource: Build Your Own Yeast Propagator
19:02 – Final Thoughts: Trial, Don’t Guess
Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:
1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook group
I post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com
2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide
3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
You’re tracking the wrong numbers on brew day.If you’ve ever missed gravity, oversparged, or blindly followed BeerSmith and wondered why your beer turns out inconsistent, this episode will change how you brew forever.
In this episode, I introduce The Sacred Trilogy — the three measurements that truly matter for wort production: OG, pH, and temperature. You’ll learn how to ignore the noise, stop chasing volume or efficiency, and instead stay in control of what really affects your beer quality.
I’ll also show you two powerful tools: The Dilution Calculation – for hitting your OG perfectly every time The Lauter Cheat Sheet – to prevent tannin extraction and chill haze
Whether you’re a solo pro brewer or managing a team, this is how you make brew day simple, predictable, and scalable.
00:00 – The Real Reason Your Wort Is Inconsistent
01:03 – Why Most Brew Day Metrics Are Just Noise
02:31 – The Sacred Trilogy of Wort Production
06:36 – OG, Wort pH & Temperature Explained
08:44 – The Danger of Chasing Volume and Efficiency
09:54 – The Dilution Calculation
11:33 – Lauter Cheat Sheet & The 6/3 Rule
13:21 – Lauter to Gravity, Not Volume
14:10 – 10-Minute Check: Gravity, pH & Adjustments
16:24 – Final Check: Knockout Temperature
17:05 – Free Resources & Taking Action
18:30 – Reflection: Are You Tracking the Right Numbers?
Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:
1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook group
I post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com
2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide
3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
In this episode of the Quality Focused Pro Brewers podcast, Hendo from Rockstar Brewer Academy discusses how professional brewers can gain control over their brewing process and make consistent, high-quality beer. Hendo emphasizes the importance of setting clear targets and tolerances throughout the brewing process rather than constantly tweaking recipes. He explains the concepts of ‘fit for use’ and ‘true to brand,’ the difference between accuracy and precision, and introduces a tool called ‘The Wall of Wisdom’ for documenting targets and tolerances as well as other beer metrics. Key topics include the necessity of accurate measurements, regular equipment calibration, and having a clear production plan to ensure consistency.
00:00 Intro: Why Your Beer Isn’t Consistent (and It’s Not the Recipe)01:27 What Are Targets & Tolerances?06:36 Accuracy vs Precision: Are Your Instruments Lying to You?10:56 From Guessing to Knowing: Stop Relying on Batch Logs13:36 The Freeway Analogy: Structure vs Styling in Brewing15:01 Using Product Specs and the Wall of Wisdom17:23 Brewery Standard Tolerances: Your Trigger for Action18:56 Final Call to Action: Build Your System, Not Just a Recipe
Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com
2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide
3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
Reviving the Classic West Coast Pale Ale and IPA Style – Brewing with Precision and Passion.
Join me as I dive deep into the art of brewing a classic West Coast Pale Ale or IPA. Remember when these beers were clear, crisp, and had that firm, piney bitterness? Somewhere along the line, we lost that iconic style, but today we’ll bring it back. I’ll guide you through the five key principles of crafting a clean, stable, and award-winning brew that sells by the pint. We’ll cover everything from selecting the right malt base to mastering water chemistry and hop selection. Plus, get your hands on a free roadmap to improve the quality of every brew you make. It’s time to make Pale Ale and IPA exciting again. Let’s get brewing!
00:00 Introduction: The Lost Art of Pale Ales and IPAs
00:19 Reviving the Classic West Coast Style
01:24 The Hazification Of Modern Brewing And How We Go Back
02:53 Key Principles for Brewing a Classic West Coast Pale Ale or IPA
05:56 Recipe Development: Malt Base and Bitterness
10:08 Hop Selection and Dry Hopping Techniques
14:43 Yeast and Fermentation Tips
16:55 Water Chemistry and Final Thoughts
19:28 Conclusion: Crafting Your Signature Pale Ale or IPA
Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com
2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide
3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
A Deep Dive into Brewing Enzymes. In this episode, Hendo & Adsy explore how enzymes can enhance hop aroma, reduce chill haze, and improve brewhouse efficiency without altering the beer recipe. They cover the science behind different enzymes like Amyloglucosidase and Bioglucanase, common misconceptions, and their practical applications in brewing. This detailed discussion provides professional brewers with insights on using enzymes to make better beer faster while maintaining quality. The episode emphasizes data-driven approaches and the natural occurrence of enzymes, addressing common concerns about the use of enzymes in craft brewing.
00:00 Introduction
01:51 What Are Enzymes?
02:33 The Role of Enzymes in Beer Production
04:38 Enzymes Beyond the Mash Tun
08:33 Optimizing Brewing Efficiency with Enzymes
13:34 Specific Enzymes and Their Applications
17:49 Natural Enzymes and Craft Brewing
21:23 Understanding Gluten and Clarex Enzyme
22:53 Common Mistakes with Enzymes
23:11 Debunking Enzyme Myths: ALDC Enzyme & Dry Hop Creep
28:35 Proper Use and Timing of Enzymes
31:43 Biotransformation and New Enzyme Uses
35:38 Measuring Enzyme Impact on Beer Quality
38:46 Proprietary Enzymes and Final Thoughts
Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com
2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide
3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo from the Rockstar Brewer Academy discusses the best ways for professional brewers to improve their skills and knowledge, including hiring a brewery consultant, obtaining a formal brewing education, or participating in a coaching program. Hendo outlines the pros and cons of each method, emphasizing the importance of urgency, budget, and learning style in making a decision. The episode also features insights from Adsy, who chats about his recent experiences, and real-world examples of brewers who have benefitted from different paths. For those seeking continuous improvement and support in their brewing journey, the Rockstar Brewer Academy offers a comprehensive coaching program for Professional Brewers focused on practical implementation and long-term results.
00:00 Introduction01:06 Understanding Brewing Education Options & The Need for Skill Advancement03:49 Three Paths to Pro Brewer Mastery08:42 Option 1 – Consultancy: Quick Fixes and Expertise12:27 Option 2 – Formal Education: Structured Learning19:12 Option 3 – Coaching: Personalized Brewing Guidance22:49 How & Why The Rockstar Brewer Academy Was Founded23:42 Benefits of Group Coaching: Community Support and Collaboration25:43 The Three Pillars of A Coaching Program26:16 Implementing Systems and Templates As Opposed To Structured Learning27:26 Commitment and Motivation in Coaching29:46 Real-World Success Stories39:24 Choosing the Right Path for Improvement41:17 Final Thoughts and Next Steps
Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com
2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide
3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
I post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com
2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide
3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
In this episode of Quality-focused Pro Brewers, Hendo and Adsy discuss the importance and challenges of implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in breweries. They explore the pitfalls and best practices of creating, using, and maintaining SOPs, emphasizing their significance for safety, consistency, and quality in brewing operations. The duo also shares insights into structuring SOPs, prioritizing them, and utilizing tools and templates for efficient SOP management. Listeners are encouraged to start breaking down SOP tasks and are offered resources like the SOP Swipe File Library from the Rockstar Brewer Academy Members-only community.
00:00 Introduction to SOPs in Breweries
01:18 Challenges in Implementing SOPs
04:57 The Importance of SOPs for Safety and Consistency
08:18 Real-World Examples and Risks
11:54 An Example of Poor SOP Knowledge Transfer: Making a Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDA3_5982h8
15:10 Steps to Create Effective SOPs
22:37 Diving into SOP Details
23:18 Writing SOPs in a Typical Brewery
25:08 Lessons Learned from Detailed SOPs
26:33 Different Learning Styles and SOPs
27:52 Tools for Creating Effective SOPs
28:14 The Wall of Wisdom: Your Key To Consistency
30:10 Modern Tools for SOP Management
35:56 The Importance of SOPs
37:56 Starting with SOPs in a New Brewery
41:26 Final Thoughts on Brewery SOPs
Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:
1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com
2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide
3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
Scaling Up: From Pilot Brewing to Commercial Success. In this episode of the Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo delves into the intricacies of scaling up beer recipes from pilot brewing to commercial production. Discussing common challenges and solutions, he emphasises the importance of professional approaches, such as documenting detailed processes and maintaining consistent quality. Hendo introduces the concept of a product specification, advocating its use for clear communication and achieving consistent, high-quality results.
This episode offers valuable insights for both brewers in the planning stages of opening a brewery and established brewers aiming to maintain consistency in their products.
00:00 Introduction to Scaling Up Brewing & Meet Hendo and Adsy
01:17 Scaling Up: Real-World Issues With Pilot Brewing & Scaling Beer Recipes
04:17 Understanding Equipment Differences
06:15 The Importance of Water Chemistry in Recipe Scaling
07:04 Why Software Tools Like Beersmith, Brewfather and Brewer’s Friend Aren’t Enough
14:37 Creating a Product Specification & Importance of Product Specifications as a Pro Brewer
24:04 Beer Recipe Development and Scaling Up
25:17 True to Brand Descriptions & Why They’re So Important
27:33 Beer Consistency and Customer Loyalty
29:03 Adjusting Product Specifications & Annual Review/Process Tweaks
34:33 About The Rockstar Brewer Academy Program
43:55 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:
1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com
2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide
3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
In this episode of the Quality Focus Pro Brewers podcast, Hendo, a pro brewer coach at the Rockstar Brewer Academy, delves into the essential practices needed for maintaining brewery quality. He emphasizes the importance of setting quality targets and tolerances, ensuring accurate and precise measurements, and having effective standard operating procedures (SOPs). Special attention is given to pH meter calibration and the significance of consistent brewing processes over mere recipe tweaking. The episode also offers insights into creating standard brewery tolerances and the concept of ‘fit for use’ and ‘true to brand’ quality metrics. Brewers are encouraged to document and regularly calibrate their equipment to maintain beer consistency and avoid wasting resources.
00:00 Introduction to Quality Brewing
01:12 Setting Quality Targets & Consistency in Brewing
04:44 Defining Quality Metrics
05:58 Measurement Tools and Challenges
10:14 Regulatory Requirements and Tolerances Around ABV
18:24 Standard Tolerances and Brewery Practices
25:20 On-Spec Brewing and Troubleshooting
28:28 Understanding Accuracy and Precision
29:14 Exact vs. Estimated Measurements
30:34 Types of Errors in Brewing Measurements
31:33 Accuracy vs. Precision Explained & Practical Examples of Accuracy and Precision
37:10 Importance of Calibration Instruments in Brewing & Common Calibration Mistakes
40:38 Proper pH Meter Calibration Techniques
50:26 Setting Quality Standards in Brewing
53:01 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement
Whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you brew consistent, world-class beer that you’re proud of whether you’re planning a brewery build or it’s already up and running:
1. Join the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast Facebook groupI post loads of new content especially for pro-brewers in my Facebook group called “Quality-focussed Pro Brewers”. There’s no stainless steel sellers and no home brewers – https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com
2. Download “The Pro Brewer Quality & Consistency Checklist”If you’re stuggling to cut through the noise from Internet “research” and want to fast-track improvements to your beer quality, this 5-Step Guide is for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/download-guide
3. Get the 30 minute Crash CourseIn how to build beer quality and consistency just like your favourite brewery. In just 30 minutes, I’ll show you how to implement a brewery quality system, create consistent beer outcomes and drive passionate and creative brewing – https://rockstarbrewer.com/crashcourse
4. Chat With Me 1:1 Over ZoomAnd if you ever want to get some 1:1 help, we can jump on a quick “Calibration Call”, and brainstorm how to get you to cut through the noise and brew more consistent and high-quality beer – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
SOCIALS:
In this episode of Quality-focused Pro Brewers, Hendo from Rockstar Brewer Academy discusses the topic of beer haze, including permanent and temporary haze. They explore the causes of chill haze, notably over sparging, and the role of biofine in combating haze. The conversation touches on a notable case of a hazy IPA becoming clear, consumer reactions, and how social media aesthetics influence beer styles. The episode delves into the complexities of achieving and maintaining haze in hazy beers like IPAs and the appropriate use of fining agents such as biofine. The podcast also covers various techniques for controlling haze, including lautering practice, water chemistry, and yeast strain selection, while emphasizing the importance of setting quality targets for beer haze.
00:00 Welcome to the Podcast
00:56 The Importance of Beer Appearance & A Case Study on Hazy IPA
04:33 The Popularity of Hazy Beers
09:15 Causes of Beer Haze
13:49 Permanent vs. Temporary Haze
20:38 Chill Haze and Over Sparging
22:34 Monitoring Lauter and Sparge
24:46 Rockstar Brewer Academy Ad
26:43 Understanding and Controlling Haze in Beer
28:53 Biofine and Other Fining Agents
35:12 Practical Tips for Reducing Haze
39:52 Practical Tips For Enhancing Haze in Beer
43:00 Setting and Troubleshooting Haze Quality Targets
46:12 Final Thoughts and Farewell
Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com where you can join our Facebook group, chat with fellow Pro-Brewers in a constructive environment and chat with Hendo & Adsy!
Book in a 15 minute “Calibration Call” with Hendo to see if the Rockstar Brewer Academy is a good fit for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
How to Craft a Killer Flagship Lager – Secrets from an Award Winning Head Brewer
In this episode of the Quality-focused Pro Brewers podcast, Hendo discusses the significance of having a stellar lager, or ‘crispy boy’ in your brewery’s core-range beer line up, with special guest Matthew Cuthbert, Award-winning Head Brewer of Revel Brewing Company in Brisbane, Australia.
They delve into the challenges and rewards of brewing a simple yet exceptional lager, sharing insights on the brewing process from recipe development to yeast management.
Key takeaways include the importance of water chemistry, fermentation temperatures, and common faults like diacetyl and sulfur. Cuthbert emphasizes that mastering a craft lager can win over traditional beer drinkers and become a brewery’s top seller, despite often being seen as a less exciting style to brew. The episode concludes with practical tips for brewers aiming to perfect their flagship lager.
00:00 Introduction to Craft Brewing and Lager
01:04 Meet the Expert: Matthew Cuthbert from Revel Brewing Co
01:39 Matthew’s Brewing History and Experience
04:15 The Importance of Lager in Craft Brewing
09:14 Challenges and Techniques in Brewing Lager
14:08 Water Chemistry and Hops in Lager
17:03 Bittering and Hopping Techniques
17:35 The Role of Yeast in Lager
18:42 Fermentation Temperatures and Techniques
24:06 Common Lager Faults and Solutions
29:14 The Challenge of Brewing a Clean Lager
29:53 Join the Conversation and Learn More
Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com where you can join our Facebook group, chat with fellow Pro-Brewers in a constructive environment and chat with Hendo & Adsy!
Book in a “Calibration Call” with Hendo to see if the Rockstar Brewer Academy is a good fit for you – https://rockstarbrewer.com/calibration
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
Mastering Beer Foam: The Key to Instagram-Worthy Beer.
In this episode of Quality Focused Pro Brewers, Hendo from the Rockstar Brewer Academy shares invaluable insights into the importance of beer foam. Joined by guest Adsy, they delve into why good foam is essential for the visual appeal of beer, influencing both taste and consumer perception. They discuss the science of foam formation, factors influencing foam stability, foam-positive elements like proteins, alpha acids, and Maillard compounds, as well as foam-negative factors such as fats, detergents, and high alcohol content.
The episode also covers practical tips for troubleshooting foam issues, emphasizing the need to start from the service point and work backwards. Ideal for pro brewers looking to enhance their beer’s presentation, making it more appealing and ultimately boosting sales.
00:00 Introduction to Beer Foam, Meet the Hosts & Previous Episode Recap
01:28 The Importance of Beer Foam/Head Retention
02:58 Understanding Beer Foam
04:07 Foam and The Relationship With Beer Carbonation
06:42 The Physics Behind Foam
11:17 Surface Tension and Nucleation
18:11 Beer Foam Chemistry: Foam Positive and Negative Elements
23:19 Why Hendo Doesn’t Use Wheat In a Beer Recipe To Enhance Foam
24:03 Foam Stability in the Mash Process
24:51 Foam Positive Compounds in Beer
27:59 The Impact of Nitrogen on Beer Foam
30:03 Foam Negative Factors: What to Avoid
35:59 Troubleshooting Foam Issues: Practical Tips
39:16 Final Thoughts and Resources for Brewers
Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com where you can join our Facebook group, chat with fellow Pro-Brewers in a constructive environment and chat with Hendo & Adsy!
Get My Free Guide – “The Pro Brewer Quality Checklist: The 5 Step Blueprint That Will Help You Brew World Class Beer….Fast!” – https://bit.ly/3f6ryQB
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may contain affiliate links or product recommendations, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
In this episode of the Quality-focused Pro Brewers podcast, Hendo talks with Lindsy Greig from The Fifth Ingredient/Beer30 about the importance of data management in brewing. They discuss the limitations of paper logs and spreadsheets for breweries, the benefits of using brewery management software like Beer30, and how it can improve beer quality, efficiency, and cost tracking.
Lindsy shares her journey from a failed actor to a brewery expert, emphasizing the need for breweries to adapt modern data collection methods. They also highlight the scalability of such software, suitable for breweries of all sizes and its role in shaping a data-conscious culture within the team.
0:00 Introduction – The episode kicks off with a discussion about the challenges of using outdated tools like paper logs, spreadsheets, and whiteboards in brewing operations.
2:15 The Problem with Paper Logs – Real-world examples of why paper logs can be unreliable, including lost records, difficulty sharing data, and the extra time they require.
6:30 Spreadsheet Shortcomings – A breakdown of how spreadsheets, while better than paper, still fall short for managing the complexity of brewery operations.
10:45 Why Whiteboards Aren’t Enough – Insights into how whiteboards limit production planning and why they become impractical as breweries scale up.
14:10 Introducing Brewery Management Systems – An overview of what brewery management systems are and how they transform operations by solving common problems with manual methods.
18:00 Benefits of Brewery Management Systems – Compelling reasons to switch, including streamlined processes, real-time updates, and better scalability for breweries.
22:20 Case Studies: Breweries that Made the Switch – Inspiring success stories from breweries that adopted management systems and saw significant improvements in efficiency and organization.
26:50 Overcoming Resistance to Change – Tips on how to approach team buy-in and make the transition to a new system smoother for everyone.
30:00 How to Choose the Right System – Practical advice on evaluating different brewery management systems and what features to prioritize.
34:15 Call to Action – Wrapping up with an encouragement to reflect on your current methods and explore how upgrading to a brewery management system could improve your brewery’s operations.
Full disclosure – Hendo is a brand ambassador for Beer30 in Australia. If you’d like to arrange a demo with the Beer30 team to see if it’s right for you, head over to https://rockstarbrewer.com/beer30
Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com where you can join our Facebook group, chat with fellow Pro-Brewers in a constructive environment and chat with Hendo & Adsy!
Get My Free Guide – “The Pro Brewer Quality Checklist: The 5 Step Blueprint That Will Help You Brew World Class Beer….Fast!” – https://bit.ly/3f6ryQB
SOCIALS:
DISCLAIMER: This podcast may
In this episode of the Quality Focused Pro Brewers Podcast, Hendo and Adsy tackle a brewing issue that often gets overlooked but can make or break beer quality: dissolved oxygen (DO). They explore why DO management is essential for maintaining hop aroma, preventing off-flavors, and ensuring shelf stability, especially in delicate beer styles like IPAs and NEPAs. From understanding the intricacies of DO measurements to preventing oxygen ingress during production, Hendo and Adsy provide actionable tips on managing DO effectively in any brewery setup.
Listeners will also gain insights into the cumulative impact of DO across different stages of beer production, and why small details—like purging hoses and valves—matter in the pursuit of quality. Whether you’re just starting in a professional brewery or looking to improve DO control in your setup, this episode is packed with essential tips for consistent, high-quality results.
What You’ll Learn:
Resources Mentioned:
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 – Introduction to DO issues in brewing, particularly in IPAs and hazy beers
00:00:35 – Hendo returns from Japan and introduces the episode with Adsy
00:04:09 – Topic introduction: Dissolved Oxygen (DO) and its role in brewing
00:05:00 – The effects of DO on hop aroma and flavor; identifying DO issues vs. dry hop issues
00:07:09 – How DO leads to diacetyl formation and discoloration in beer
00:10:00 – Examples of visual signs of oxidation in beer during judging
00:11:09 – DO measurement challenges and the high cost of low-range DO meters
00:14:09 – The cumulative effect of DO ingress across production stages
00:16:16 – Why breweries need their own DO meters; challenges with outsourcing DO testing
00:21:00 – Target DO levels in brewing: why less than 50 ppb is ideal for hoppy beer styles
00:25:00 – Preventing DO ingress during cooling, transfer, and packaging
00:29:24 – “Think small, act big” approach to preventing DO ingress in the brewery
00:32:03 – Real-world examples of DO-related issues and troubleshooting
00:34:48 – Best practices for minimizing DO ingress: purging with CO₂, nitrogen, or deaerated water
00:42:09 – Modern hop extracts and terpenes: do they interact with DO differently?
00:43:09 – How to recognize when it’s time for a DO meter and why it’s a valuable investment
Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com
In this episode of the Quality-focused Pro Brewers Podcast, Hendo from Rockstar Brewer Academy and Adsy delve into the crucial yet often overlooked aspect of brewing – water chemistry. They aim to demystify how water, which constitutes 95% of beer, influences beer flavor and quality. The discussion highlights common mistakes brewers make by focusing too much on malt, hops, and yeast while neglecting water. Key challenges such as setting clear water chemistry objectives, understanding water’s role in beer’s flavor profile, and the limitations of relying on algorithms for water adjustments are explored. They advise brewers to prioritize beer pH, sulfate to chloride ratio, and calcium concentration over historical water profiles. Practical tips include getting water tested, proper use of brewing salts, and the importance of managing pH through all brewing stages. The insights aim to empower brewers to improve beer quality significantly by mastering water chemistry.
00:00 Introduction to Brewing Water Chemistry
00:53 The Importance of Water in Brewing
03:33 Challenges and Common Mistakes in Brewing Water Chemistry
06:14 Understanding Water Profiles and Why Relying on the Beersmith, Brew Father or Brewer’s Friend Algorithm Is Bullsh*t
08:14 Historical Water Profiles: Myths and Realities
13:25 The Importance of Testing Your Water at a reputable Lab
17:18 The 3 Key “Flavour Numbers” in Brewing Water Chemistry
20:42 Understanding Calcium in Beer
21:37 The Impact of Beer Color on pH in Brewing
22:32 Adjusting pH with Malts
25:07 The Role of pH in Beer Flavor
26:09 Using Bru’n Water Spreadsheet
12:05 Controlling Beer pH During Brewing
32:00 Tips for Managing Beer pH
34:25 Avoiding Common pH Mistakes
39:04 Final Thoughts on Water Chemistry
Be sure to connect with us at https://qualityfocusedprobrewers.com where you can join our Facebook group, chat with fellow Pro-Brewers in a constructive environment and chat with Hendo & Adsy!
Get My Free Guide – “The Pro Brewer Quality Checklist: The 5 Step Blueprint That Will Help You Brew World Class Beer….Fast!” – https://bit.ly/3f6ryQB
SOCIALS:
