Altbier

Brewing went very well.  Efficiency once again at 83% versus 75%.  OG is 1.054 instead of projected 1.049.  WOOHOO!  Aromas of toasted malt, nuttiness, caramel, and toffee in the boil.  3 oz of German Spaltz hops in boil gave a slighty piney, citrusy, spicy aroma to the brew.  I'm thinking this will turn out to be a tasty brew!  Only a month to go to find out!
Cheers! 

Altbier, again

I decided to brew another Dusseldorf Altbier based on judging results from the Brew Hut Homebrew Competition.  My ALTer Ego won a Silver medal and was noted that it needed more malt aroma and flavor as well as requiring German Noble hops.  I did use Hallertau, but the judges thought they were a Nor-Cal variety.  So, I tweaked the maltbill and will use German Spaltz hops, which are the true variety normally used for Altbier.  Since I increased the flavor profile of the maltbill, I also increased the IBU's from 36 to 40.  I'm mashing as we speak and the results will follow!
CHEERS!

Black Cauldron Dry Irish Stout

Nice roasty flavors rounded out by a little chocolate.  Target hops provide a pleasant sweet floral aroma.  Darn tasty dry stout a few fellows have told me.  It will be ready for St. Patty's Day!
Cheers! 

Black Cauldron Dry Irish Stout

Bottled tonight with a final gravity of 1.020, attaining 4.3% ABV.  Target hops provide a slightly fruity/floral aroma which is quite pleasant.  Flavor of deep roasted malt, coffee, and dark chocolate.  Nice bitterness that ends with a smooth, clean finish.  I hate having to wait two weeks for carbonation.  UGH!
Cheers!