Overview of the Brewing Process

Abstract

In this chapter, we will explore the basic steps required in modern beer brewing in the USA. Much of what is presented here is discussed again in other chapters in greater detail. This chapter provides a sketch of the overall process and will aid us by providing a blueprint to follow as we explore these subjects. While there are some significant differences in the process steps taken for the homebrewer versus the industrial-scale brewer, the basic steps are the same. In the USA, the most common materials will be the focus of our overview. Other materials such as adjunct grains and fermentables, rice hulls and fillers, hop oils and isomerized extracts, artificial carbonation, and finings are frequently used. Their specific use will be covered as we explore the overall process steps in detail later in this text.