Craft beer has a lot of things to love. Jamey Adams, Arches Beer brewmaster, says craft brewing is “the constant pursuit for perfection and the occasional realization you have achieved it.” This is a great job description. Adams says that brewing is the right job for you if you believe you should learn at least one thing daily.
According to three craft brewers, here’s how to become a craft beer brewer.
Ask yourself: “Do I want this ?”?”
It’s not easy to be a craft beer maker, warns Dustin Hazer (owner and brewmaster at Helio Base Brewing Company). He explains that craft beer is more than any other industry. It is more than a job. And it is not the typical career path. This is physically demanding work that requires long hours and lower pay. Hazer explains that if you are up for the challenge, you will find that you enjoy it, making you happy. It is not for everyone, but it will be worth it if you discover it is your calling.
Volunteer at your local brewery. You can get in touch with the brewery world by visiting local breweries to ask for help with their menial tasks, such as keg cleaning, bottling, or canning. Adams states that you will often find them in dire need of your help. Volunteers can meet staff and build relationships within the industry. Danny Bruckert, the head brewer at Circa Brewing Co. Volunteering, is one way to get into this circle and use your network to your advantage.
Enjoy as many beers as possible.
This is a complicated step, and we know it. But Hazer suggests trying as many beer styles as possible to expand your brewing knowledge. Hazer means that you write down your sensory notes and compare them with style guidelines, which can be found in various brewing books. This will allow you to learn the science behind the beverage and the art. This will teach you more about brewing and give you an idea of whether this is a job you are interested in. He says that no matter how long you have been brewing, you can always learn something. “This profession isn’t for everyone who enjoys the act of brewing but doesn’t understand the process behind it.”
Brew beer at your home
Bruckert explains that “getting in touch on a basic level with the process will give you greater familiarity when seen on a larger platform.” Adams recommends joining a homebrewing group to get started. Adams states that brew clubs often brew large batches of a style, then separate the beer into smaller carboys. These can be dry-hopped or pitched with different yeast strains. This will give you more information about brewing than a single batch. Bruckert suggests that you take detailed notes about the process of making a brew you are proud of and have it reviewed by a professional brewer. He says, “Whether negative or positive, you’ll establish a relationship at least.” Before he adds, “Think of each batch of beer as a potential business card. Label the bottles with your name, phone number, and beer type before you give them out.”
