From the Brewer's Desk

The Bar Carrera Blog

In-depth articles, tutorials, and stories from over a decade of brewing experience. Your resource for leveling up your craft.

An electric brew-in-a-bag system

All-in-one electric Brew-in-a-Bag (BIAB) systems promise simplicity and precision. I've brewed dozens of batches on one, and here's my verdict on whether it's the right upgrade for your brewery.

By John Carrera
brewing measurement

If you want to move from just making beer to consistently making great beer, you need to measure. This is my guide to the three non-negotiable tools for quality control.

By John Carrera
brewing equipment

This is the first post on my new blog! Here I will share my journey in craft brewing, from recipes and techniques to gear reviews and local brewery spotlights.

By John Carrera
A tablet showing the Brewfather application interface for recipe design

Is Brewfather the all-in-one brewing software you need? I've used it to design, brew, and track dozens of batches. Here's my definitive review.

By John Carrera
pressure fermenter

Is this affordable PET fermenter the key to better beer through pressure fermentation and oxygen-free transfers? I've used it for over a dozen batches, and here's my definitive take.

By John Carrera
bottle capper

While kegging is king for convenience, bottling is a non-negotiable skill for competitions and long-term cellaring. Here’s why a sturdy bench capper isn't just a tool, but a necessity for quality control.

By John Carrera
kegerator

Tired of bottling? I review the pros, cons, and reality of upgrading to a homebrew kegerator. Spoiler: it’s the best investment you’ll make.

By John Carrera
How to Keep the Air in Your Bar Room Crisp Clean With Air Purifiers

If you are looking for the best air purifier for your family, I aim to provide well-researched, unbiased information to help you make an informed decision. I understand the importance of clean air for you and your loved ones, and I strive

By John Carrera
Best Soft Tip Dart Board Reviews

If you are looking for a fun and exciting way to entertain yourself or your friends, investing in an Electronic Dart Board might be the perfect solution. With easy setup and minimal space required, you can enjoy endless hours of competitive fun with your loved ones.

By John Carrera
10 Best Games to Play At a Bar

Are you searching for engaging bar games to enjoy with your loved ones at home? Look no further! This blog post offers a comprehensive list of top bar games perfect for a delightful evening in. Whether you're into classic card games, beer pong, or

By John Carrera
How Much Does it Cost to Refelt a Pool Table?

If you are considering refelting your pool table, it is important to consider the cost and materials needed for the project. While hiring a professional is recommended for a perfect result, it is possible to do it yourself if you are comfortable and handy.

By John Carrera
Buying a Foosball Table That's Worth Every Dime You Spend

Foosball tables have gained popularity in recent years, with full-size tables being a favorite choice for many. When looking for a top foosball table, it's important to check the playing surface, rod movement, and overall construction quality to ensure

By John Carrera
Best Pool Table Lights | What's the Best Lighting for Pool Tables

Pool table lights are an essential addition to create a warm atmosphere and proper lighting for a game of pool. By selecting the right type and size of lights, you can enhance your playing experience and prevent eye strain. Professional installation and choosing the correct bulbs are

By John Carrera
Best Pool Cue For Intermediate Player

Are you looking to elevate your pool game to the next level as an intermediate player? With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect cue that suits your improving skills. Our list of the best pool cues for intermediate players

By John Carrera
Yeast Viability Over Time

Keeping yeast viable for brewing is crucial, but it's not always clear how long it can be stored. Various factors come into play, such as temperature and packaging date, affecting viability over time. While a 20% decrease per month is a common

By John Carrera
Toasted vs Charred Barrel

In this heartfelt piece, the author reflects on their journey with brewing and wood exploration, particularly focusing on the difference between toasting and charring wood in barrels. Through thorough research and personal testing, they delve into the nuances of how these processes affect flavor

By John Carrera
To Trub or Not to Trub: Replicating the Great Trub ExBEERiment

In the world of brewing, there are many long-held beliefs that we tend to accept without question. However, through the work of individuals like Marshall from Brülosophy, these beliefs are being put to the test. One interesting experiment involved testing

By John Carrera
Formula & Calculations for Surface Area of a Barrel and Alternatives

I understand that navigating through numbers and formulas can be overwhelming, especially when it feels like a roadblock to pursuing your passion. It can be frustrating when your love for theoretical puzzles and problem solving clashes with the practicality of numbers. Just like in the

By John Carrera
The Brew Bag Review

In this heartwarming recount, the author takes us through their typical brew day, which involves a meticulous routine of brewing coffee, heating water, and cleaning equipment in preparation for making beer. Despite some initial doubts, they try out the Brew Bag for

By John Carrera
Oak Toasting Chart - How to Toast Oak Chips to Different Levels

When first delving into the world of using wood in homebrewing, the narrator was unfamiliar with the different types of oak and toasts available. Through research and experimentation, the importance of the toast level of wood became evident in creating unique flavors and

By John Carrera
In Pursuit of Czech Pilsner: Take One

In this heartfelt recount, the author delves into their journey of brewing a Bohemian Pilsner, a style they were not very familiar with but came to appreciate through research and experimentation. Despite some challenges along the way, they are proud of

By John Carrera
Homebrew Wood Additions and Barrel Alternatives.

I can relate to your initial struggles with finding a space-efficient way to age your beer with oak. It can be overwhelming trying to navigate the various options available. It's important to remember that experimentation and finding what works best for you is key when it

By John Carrera
Developing a Palate for Off-Flavors

Brewing may start with developing a palate for off-flavors, which can be challenging to articulate to others. Recognizing off-flavors is crucial for personal growth as a brewer. Despite difficulties in replicating these flavors at home, the process

By John Carrera
Czech Pilsner Planning Post.

I can imagine how challenging it must be to recreate the Czech Pilsner your friend Evan raved about. The delicate balance of soft water, under-modified malt, Saaz hops, and Czech Lager yeasts truly sets this brew apart from others

By John Carrera
Building Behemoth: Reddit RIS Survey

The writer has a deep affection for Russian Imperial Stouts, both as a drinker and a brewer. However, recent batches of stouts have not been meeting expectations, leading to a self-reflection on the brewing process. In an effort to

By John Carrera
Building Behemoth Part 3: Hops

In the latest installment of this series, the writer shares their personal opinion on the use of hops in Imperial Stouts, emphasizing the need for balance to avoid overpowering flavors. They delve into professional and award-winning recipes to explore hop schedules, timings,

By John Carrera
Building Behemoth Part 2: A Look at Imperial Stout Grain Bills

The author expresses a deep love for Russian Imperial Stouts and shares their personal journey in brewing them, including their first successful homebrewed RIS called the Black Loch. However, they discuss recent struggles in achieving the desired flavors in their stouts.

By John Carrera
Best Pool Tables Under $1000

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By John Carrera