| Author |
Message |
    
Graham Cox
Advanced Member
Username: T2driver
Post Number: 885
Registered: 11-2004
Posted From: 68.32.253.156
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 07:09 am: | 
|
I know to many, if not most of us, the average cost per beer we make is not very important - it is the process, the craftsmanship, the hobby itself, that is important. Hell, I'd pay upwards of $20/sixer for my very best beers.
However, I was having an in-depth discussion with a co-worker yesterday, and I decided to do a cocktail-napkin cipherin' of what my average cost per beer was.
I came up with, VERY roughly, about $1 per.
(My assumptions, as I recall: $2500 worth of equipment (an educated guess, but probably low), $20 of ingredients per 5-gallon batch, 93 batches of 56 12-ounce bottles apiece.)
(Actually, in retrospect, that comes out to less than 90 cents per beer - maybe my assumptions were slightly different. Anyhoo, those assumptions seem pretty reasonable for most of us, I think. Am I wrong?) |
JimTanguay
Advanced Member
Username: Pizzaman
Post Number: 637
Registered: 02-2003
Posted From: 24.18.213.14
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 08:10 am: |
|
people ask me that all the time. They want to buy kegs from me. Its not so much the cost of ingredients, I can make a 10 gallon batch for easily under $20, but the time. While I enjoy the time spent brewing I am not going to sell them a keg for 25 or 30 dollars when it takes 6 hrs of my time. However I give quite a few away to friends who appreciate good beer for special occasions
I wish you hadn't thrown out the $2500 as a guess on equipment cost, I don't like to think about that |
The Jolly Brewer
Senior Member
Username: Matfink
Post Number: 1430
Registered: 03-2003
Posted From: 86.128.164.181
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 09:33 am: |
|
I've not spent anywhere near $2500 on kit, more like £500 tops.
I get ingredients at a very competitive price as our club buy direct from a wholesaler. 25kg sacks of grain for £12 and hops at about £5 per kilo.
So for an average 50litre brew a rough guess is about £0.15 per litre in ingredients only. Of course when you factor in power, kit, time etc it does rise, but I make beer for myself, for friends and family when they visit, or I visit them and for any parties I may host (which seems to be rising!)
Of course, although I can be smug in the knowledge that I'm happily drinking a pint of beer that cost me under 10 pence, what make me feel even more smug is the fact that I know it tastes a lot better than the beer they sell in the pub at the end of my road for upwards of £2.50 a pint! |
robert rulmyr
Advanced Member
Username: Wacobob
Post Number: 880
Registered: 02-2003
Posted From: 216.188.241.153
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 12:06 pm: |
|
Yes, a LOT better! Ditto Jim, 10 gallons for around $20. |
ChriSto
Member
Username: Christo
Post Number: 157
Registered: 02-2006
Posted From: 216.176.226.154
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 12:24 pm: |
|
Not to p*ss in anyone's beer, but don't forget the cost of propane, water (if you buy bottled), power for cooling that kegerator/beer fridge sitting in the garage, disinfectant, etc, etc.
I go thru a tank of propane about every 4-6 batches depending on length of boils, so at $15-20 a pop to fill/return that adds up quick. I don't typically use bottled water, but 10 gallons at $0.79 each also adds a lot. Based on the (in)efficiency of my old fridge, I estimate it accounts for $40 of the power bill each month to keep my liver sufficiently cooled.
Still, as everyone has said, I prefer my own to most other commercial beers, and definitely there is the pride factor in doing it yourself. |
Joakim Ruud
Advanced Member
Username: Joques
Post Number: 525
Registered: 10-2005
Posted From: 85.166.59.67
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 12:36 pm: |
|
Approx 90 batches so far in my brewing career, and I still think with ingredients and all my investments in equipment that I haven't yet broken even with the cost of beer at the store.
"people ask me that all the time. They want to buy kegs from me. Its not so much the cost of ingredients, I can make a 10 gallon batch for easily under $20, but the time. While I enjoy the time spent brewing I am not going to sell them a keg for 25 or 30 dollars when it takes 6 hrs of my time."
Jim, my thoughts exactly. People keep asking to buy bottles or kegs, but I always say no. It goes against my whole philosophy of brewing, which is that I will gladly serve free beer to people at my house, and bring kegs to parties, but charging money for it just cheapens the whole thing for me. I don't imagine that I will ever do it.
For to accuse requires less eloquence, such is man's nature, than to
excuse; and condemnation, than absolution, more resembles justice.
-Hobbes, Leviathan
|
dhacker
Advanced Member
Username: Dhacker
Post Number: 755
Registered: 11-2002
Posted From: 66.21.193.101
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 12:37 pm: |
|
The cost per beer is directly proportional to the geographic location of the brewer. For those who can drive a few blocks to their LHBS and get ingredients, or live near a malt distribution center . . much less. For those far removed from beer civilization, like me . . quite a bit more. Again, cost of grain and shipping being the the primary culprit. I suppose if I wanted to by pallet volumes I could get the cost down, but no single person can use that much grain over several years.
I haven't done it yet, but I think if I calculated it out I'd find it might be cheaper to buy all grain unmilled kits from online retailers with their shipping incentives than it is for me to buy the bulk ingredients (sacks o' grain) for which there is no shipping incentives. I drive to Memphis. That's 220 miles round trip. So with the gas and 10% Tennessee sales tax, that eats up the cost savings.
I'd say . . figuring ingredients, propane, travel, etc. around $23 per fiver and $40 per ten. |
Mike Mayer
Advanced Member
Username: Mmayer
Post Number: 755
Registered: 12-2002
Posted From: 211.72.150.34
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 02:39 pm: |
|
For me, I'm guessing that I have about $30-$35 per 10 gallon batch (including propane, O2, CO2, etc.) for most of my beers. I believe 10 gallons equates to about 5 cases of beer, so at $6 to $7 per case, I would say that's pretty cheap for some premium quality beer. |
Nathan Eddy
Member
Username: Nathan_eddy
Post Number: 140
Registered: 03-2005
Posted From: 74.131.224.44
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 02:53 pm: |
|
My setup cost me around $150. I've brewed 27 batches. I don't refrigerate. I recycle all my bottles (which came from commercial beer purchases, so I don't count them--I would have thrown them away before I started brewing). But I still don't understand how you all get a 10 gallon batch for $20. That's amazing. I was happy when I recently switched to all grain and got my 5 gallon batches down to about $15-$20. |
Bill Pierce
Moderator
Username: Billpierce
Post Number: 6352
Registered: 01-2002
Posted From: 24.57.224.220
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 02:57 pm: |
|
This is interesting because my wife (usually an eminently practical person) and I had this conversation just a couple of nights ago. My next batch will be a Rochefort 8 clone; this beer when available here in Ontario approaches $4 a bottle at the provincial liquor monopoly. We'll say $375 CAD for the 100 or so bottles (actually I'll likely keg half of it) I can brew.
Now ingredients tend to be more expensive here as well, and a couple of items I'm having to order to be sent to a US address because they just don't seem to be available in Canada. At any rate, I'll claim the total ingredient cost as $80 (again all figures in discounted Canadian looneys). Energy and utility costs are not insignificant; I'll say $15 for everything involved in brewing, cleaning and sanitizing.
Of course there is the time involved. My wife has a little trouble rationalizing the idea of a hobby. She can't imagine having enough energy after her work and family responsibilities. But she can accept a certain amount of time and money budgeted for entertainment and travel, so that's the mental category where she places it. As for equipment costs, most of that was paid for in another life (mine prior to meeting her) in her eyes.
And lastly there is the "opportunity cost," that is, what I might have done otherwise with my life. We won't even begin to deal with that. Let's just say that in my case if I had never brewed I likely could have paid for a small house.
Ah, beer! Where would I be without it...  |
Craig Henry
Intermediate Member
Username: Sail
Post Number: 423
Registered: 04-2003
Posted From: 136.181.195.8
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 02:58 pm: |
|
I used to be concerned over cost per beer. Than I had an epiphany and came to the conclusion it is somewhat priceless as I can't go buy it in a store. (It breaks my heart to pay money for sub-standard beer anyway.) |
Dan Listermann
Senior Member
Username: Listermann
Post Number: 3972
Registered: 03-2004
Posted From: 216.23.59.245
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 03:28 pm: |
|
Another concern is the quality of commercial beer that would have to be bought in stead of making your own. I have lost confidence in a lot of commercial brews. It is a sick feeling to open the first bottle in a six pack and taste a major fault.
Dan
--This space is STILL being left intentionally blank.-
|
Connie
Advanced Member
Username: Connie
Post Number: 925
Registered: 10-2000
Posted From: 24.98.76.59
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 03:39 pm: |
|
I'm a shopper and a garage sale shopper at that. I've found some great brewery related deals over the last few years. That said, the $2500 figure sounds low for me. All I have to do is look around the basement at the "spare" kegs, coolers, carboys and large assortment of related treasures. I do tend to buy my ingredients in bulk, a definite savings. I think my batches run in the $17-25 range, but I don't make big beers. I drink most all the beer I make, so I make what I like. Thankfully, my wife supports my interests and has never complained about what I spend.  |
The Jolly Brewer
Senior Member
Username: Matfink
Post Number: 1432
Registered: 03-2003
Posted From: 86.128.164.181
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 04:54 pm: |
|
"(It breaks my heart to pay money for sub-standard beer anyway.)"
I can't agree with that enough. The worst is in a pub when it is so bad you have to send it back! |
Bill Pierce
Moderator
Username: Billpierce
Post Number: 6360
Registered: 01-2002
Posted From: 24.57.224.220
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 04:58 pm: |
|
I sent a stale beer back at my local brewpub/bistro just last week. The bartender admitted their keg cooler (they serve seasonal selections from kegs) had been down for a few days, which no doubt allowed the beer to get too warm. |
Mike Reynolds
Junior Member
Username: Biernewbie
Post Number: 67
Registered: 04-2006
Posted From: 74.132.128.106
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 05:22 pm: |
|
I really don't care what it costs (within reason). I can get beer on Sunday. I don't have to educate the local liquor store on what to stock, I don't have to drive to the only local brewpub that has good brew. Don't have to drive home after the good beer....etc. You see where I am going with this. Cost is a least likely factor to why I brew. I get my beer made in the range of $45-$90 per 10 gallons depending on gravity and adjuncts including propane. The equipment I don't figure in the price as its mostly a one time purchase so I'd have to spread that over 10 or so years. |
Jon Steinhauer
Senior Member
Username: Jstein6870
Post Number: 1073
Registered: 03-2002
Posted From: 74.36.54.246
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 06:09 pm: |
|
I haven't much thought about the cost, since I don't brew for that reason. It's not even appropriate to justify costs of a recreational activity. I'm sure what I have spent is on par with what an avid golfer, biker (motorized and non), audiophile, aquarium keeper, parrot keeper, auto enthusiast, etc., etc. would spend on their hobby.
Steinhauer
|
Brewer ZUUL
New Member
Username: Brewer_zuul
Post Number: 1
Registered: 01-2007
Posted From: 67.159.26.26
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 06:57 pm: |
|
Hello
I am the new guy on the block here I guess. I have lurked for a long time but have never posted. I think that no matter what the cost of beer it is what you are willing to pay for it. If it is stale then you should by all means send the beer back and order something else. |
Bill Pierce
Moderator
Username: Billpierce
Post Number: 6365
Registered: 01-2002
Posted From: 24.57.224.220
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 07:12 pm: |
|
Brewer ZUUL, welcome to our humble board.
I am wondering, are you acquainted with the esteemed Pizza Hut Abdul who formerly graced us with his presence now and then? And by the way, have you encountered any Ghostbusters recently? |
Brewer ZUUL
New Member
Username: Brewer_zuul
Post Number: 2
Registered: 01-2007
Posted From: 67.159.26.26
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 07:21 pm: |
|
never heard of Pizza Hut Abdul. I am a retired subway employee living in NYC. I have been brewing partial mashes for the last 5 years and thinking about going grain if I can clean out some closet space in the apartment |
Tim Wi
Advanced Member
Username: Riverkeeper
Post Number: 707
Registered: 03-2005
Posted From: 170.141.68.2
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 07:27 pm: |
|
For the lowest gravity beers I brew, 1.045, the cost including propane, star san, O2, etc. is about 28 to 35 cents per 12 ounce beer.
About $1.68 to $2.10 a six-er.
Can't even get "the Beast" for that price.
As far as hobbies go, what other hobby or recreational activity can you think of that only costs you about $20-30 per session?
A day fishing will cost that in gas, snacks and cold drinks.
T |
Craig Henry
Intermediate Member
Username: Sail
Post Number: 427
Registered: 04-2003
Posted From: 136.181.195.8
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 08:50 pm: |
|
Yeah - why go fishing when you can make beer. It is like printing your own money!
Did I say why go fishing... That is crazy talk...
(Message edited by sail on January 25, 2007) |
Hophead
Senior Member
Username: Hophead
Post Number: 2390
Registered: 03-2002
Posted From: 167.4.1.41
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 09:48 pm: |
|
Welcome ZUUL, you get bonus points for coolest picture too... BP, you may be onto something...
I've also never calculated costs, but as I make stronger brews with a lot of hops, I'd say mine might be higher than many, but I also 'save' a lot more as those types of beers commercially are very expensive too. I buy grain/hops in bulk, and harvest/bank yeasties to help. Of course, this is offset by things such as buying a new chest freezer and the SS conical that I just had to have...  |
ELK
Senior Member
Username: Elkski
Post Number: 1797
Registered: 01-2003
Posted From: 71.195.244.40
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 09:50 pm: |
|
Great and timely thread!!!
I will get to that later.
First I agree with Jim. Joakim, Nathon , Dan and really everyone here.
Bill You sound like a biz major with that cost breakdown and land of lost opportunities and the wife sounds like a sharp Lady as I am sure she is to keep you mentally stimulated. I was reading a thread on B-52 a few minutes ago from 03' where the troll Pizza Hut Abdul. Man that guy was crazy.
How can you brew a 10 gal batch for 20$ US??? I would think 50-60 $ is a better round number including yeast, hops, gas, starters and refrigeration. Dont forget the 10$/hr we could make on a shift at the 7-11 store or gasmart.
I did however start to buy my base malt by the bag and the LHBS just keeps track. IT was 40$ a bag for reg pale malt 2 row and 60$ bag for Marris Otter.???
heres part of a superbowl invite I received yesterday
ELK..." one favor....would you be willing to bring a keg again this year? It was fantastic beer, and I think it went over better than the actual football game. I know its a lot of work, and some personal cost, but I would be willing to help pay for it. If you are not able to do it, I am considering going to Evanston and buying a keg. Let me know what you think about all that. I need to get out the e-invitations and would like to advertise your beer if its going to be there."
First I had to explain that a keg is only 2cases of beer. So I bet shes thinking ok whats 15$ a case thats only 30-40$'s worth right! When actually you would have to go to the liquor store and buy bottles for 1.65$/each to get any good beers.
I plan to take a full keg of B-52 and might donate some other stuff. Maybe if I took a young keg of SSOS it wouldn't get drunk?? Also I am sure the shots will be flowing freely at this rare and unique UTah neighborhood party. And my big fear of serving my beer like a full strength B-52 7.5% beer is that these folks can walk home.
This is how I tried to explain it to her!!
I hope I wasn't rude.??
"Its hard to explain but after all the work that goes into making a beer from scratch, and all the brewing equipment I have accumuated and the ingredient cost and the lost days not spent fishing and or doing something else my beer is priceless."
A beer a day keeps the Mormons away!!
|
Bill Pierce
Moderator
Username: Billpierce
Post Number: 6367
Registered: 01-2002
Posted From: 24.57.224.220
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 10:16 pm: |
|
ELK, I was basically an English major, with some political science and chemistry thrown into the mix. But my father was an economics professor later in life, and I've never forgotten the supreme law of economics: there is no such thing as a free lunch. Then again, my dad was actually old enough to tell stories about nickel beer and free lunches in the pre-Prohibition saloons. |
Tim Wi
Advanced Member
Username: Riverkeeper
Post Number: 708
Registered: 03-2005
Posted From: 170.141.68.2
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 10:22 pm: |
|
Lower her expectations I haven't got much on hand, it takes 6 weeks to make a batch..., she will go and buy the bulk stuff, you are a hero when you arrive with 3-5 gallons of good stuff.
I hate it when my homebrew is guzzled like a sailor with shore leave intent on instant stupefication.
When it takes a month and a half to craft a decent brew, and when you only get time to make a batch a month, or maybe two if you're lucky, ...
The sight of a gallon of homebrew disappearing down the gullet of some such sot, accompanied by a slurred version of "Can't you make something like Bud Lite?" is provocation sufficient to excuse homicide.
Tim |
Vance Barnes
Senior Member
Username: Vancebarnes
Post Number: 2634
Registered: 03-2003
Posted From: 208.49.148.10
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 10:23 pm: |
|
Equipment costs? We do not speak about that here! After paying $10.99 for a 750 ml bottle of Smokejumper IP last night whatever mine costs is cheap in comparision. My story and I'm stickin to it.
Actually the last time I did try to calculate the costs (maybe 10 years ago?) I figured I was making it for about $.50 a beer but of a quality it would cost $1.00+ a bottle to buy. So I'm saving $.50/beer |
Paul Edwards
Senior Member
Username: Pedwards
Post Number: 1264
Registered: 03-2003
Posted From: 70.236.27.252
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 10:58 pm: |
|
I've never really ever thought about my costs per beer.
Even tho I've got a lot more stainless than I used to, and I have some other neat brewing toys like my beer engine, it's still cheaper than what my friends spend on golf.
Now, fishing, well, that's a different can of worms... |
Gary Muehe
Member
Username: Garymuehe
Post Number: 179
Registered: 03-2003
Posted From: 75.57.116.216
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 11:24 pm: |
|
My coworkers know I brew. Still haven't figured out how they know that! I'm always asked "when can we taste your beer?" I just say "you wouldn't like it." One guy tells me "ya know you can buy beer at the store now!"
I'm not too concerned about the cost of my hobby. I guess it's like hunting and fishing. You can buy fish and meat at the store too. Do we compare price per pound?
I understand it's just a matter of curiosity. |
Chris Vejnovich
Advanced Member
Username: Cjv85vmax
Post Number: 544
Registered: 06-2003
Posted From: 216.96.10.89
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 11:28 pm: |
|
I actually like to brew for work, friendly, and family get togethers. It is my little way of letting people know that they should not be wasting thier time on BMC, and they should be buying craft beer.
At a recent Work Xmas party I took a keg of 7.5% Dubbel. I got a lot of compliments, and people could not believe how smooth the beer was. I will admit that the beer was not completely brewed to style, and it may not have been an AHA comp winner, but it was a solid beer.
One guy at work that would not touch a craft beer 5 yrs ago when I met him, now loves IPA's and Stouts. Funny how people will change their appetites after they their pallets are awaken to good beer.
Ofcourse there is always the guy that "has never drank a bad beer". I don't waste my time with those folks. |
Jeff Preston
Member
Username: Jeffpreston
Post Number: 235
Registered: 02-2004
Posted From: 207.161.35.58
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 11:34 pm: |
|
Very interesting thread. I've tried to calculate but too many variables. I must say it's much more expensive in Canada compared to American standards. No matter what I love brewing and enjoying my brews.  |
ELK
Senior Member
Username: Elkski
Post Number: 1798
Registered: 01-2003
Posted From: 71.195.244.40
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 11:44 pm: |
|
"The sight of a gallon of homebrew disappearing down the gullet of some such sot, accompanied by a slurred version of "Can't you make something like Bud Lite?" is provocation sufficient to excuse homicide. Tim"
My thoughts exactly! You are stingy too!! I think I am glad I get to drink most of my beer. When I do crack a homebrew for someone who's not sure of homebrew they get about 4 oz's to taste before I will pour any more. IF they like it they can try more, but each new flavor gets the same old 4 oz test. I have met a fellow brewer and we have had sessions at each other house but that isn't real fair either as he scoffs down a half pint on the first gulp-taste??? So he downs twice as much as I do being a sipper/taster. Oh by the way I always compare my hobby to someone who cans peaches or jams and jelly's or makes pickles or candy n such.
A beer a day keeps the Mormons away!!
|
Bill Pierce
Moderator
Username: Billpierce
Post Number: 6369
Registered: 01-2002
Posted From: 24.57.224.220
| | Posted on Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 11:53 pm: |
|
ELK, yes, pickles or jam is a good analogy that would work in Utah, at least for those who are willing to consider that you aren't doing the work of Satan.
Jeff, the cost of ingredients is higher in Canada, but so is the beer. I don't know what you pay in Manitoba, but here in Ontario the cheapest wretched swill is $24 CAD a case. Like I said, some of the Belgians when I can get them are nearly $4 a bottle. |
Bill Pierce
Moderator
Username: Billpierce
Post Number: 6370
Registered: 01-2002
Posted From: 24.57.224.220
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 12:08 am: |
|
I also just realized what types of creatures inhabit the NYC subways from which Brewer ZUUL retired. Rattus norvegicus, anyone (or should I say rattus cerevisiae)?
(Message edited by billpierce on January 26, 2007) |
Kevin Davis
Intermediate Member
Username: Ktdavis98
Post Number: 438
Registered: 12-2003
Posted From: 67.150.68.12
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 03:01 am: |
|
I am with Tim Wi's first post, (not sure about the second), as far as cost per batch, except I brew around 1.053, and 12.5 gal. I have very little in my brewing equipment, (although my employer has quite a bit in my mill). I compare everything against what I would pay for a similar beer!
Kevin
"When I read about the evils of drinking....I gave up reading" Henny Youngman
|
Graham Cox
Advanced Member
Username: T2driver
Post Number: 892
Registered: 11-2004
Posted From: 68.32.253.156
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 03:26 am: |
|
Thank you all for the enthusiastic response to this thread.
Again, it is an academic exercise, not a justification. I brew because I love to brew. |
Joakim Ruud
Advanced Member
Username: Joques
Post Number: 526
Registered: 10-2005
Posted From: 84.209.8.118
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 08:36 am: |
|
"I also just realized what types of creatures inhabit the NYC subways from which Brewer ZUUL retired. Rattus norvegicus"
Hey! Who're you calling a Norwegian rat?! 
For to accuse requires less eloquence, such is man's nature, than to
excuse; and condemnation, than absolution, more resembles justice.
-Hobbes, Leviathan
|
The Jolly Brewer
Senior Member
Username: Matfink
Post Number: 1436
Registered: 03-2003
Posted From: 86.128.164.181
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 10:11 am: |
|
I'm glad other people are as stingy with their beer as I am! I'm only really stingy with bottled beer. I'll quite happily put three kegs on for a party and not mind a bit it they are all emptied, but I hate giving away bottles of beer, especially if I'm not going to be there when they are drunk! I don't often bottle, only a few bottles from each batch for club meetings and as a process of seeing how they age. I bottle strong beers (anything over about 7%) as I like to see how they age and feel they do better in the bottle. So I'm always reticent to give away bottles as if I have 8 bottles from a batch and give away 2 bottles, that's a quarter of what I have. I like to keep bottles for a year or more to see how they change, and if they stand up to time, whether they oxidise, over-condition etc. |
Bill Pierce
Moderator
Username: Billpierce
Post Number: 6375
Registered: 01-2002
Posted From: 24.57.224.220
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 12:58 pm: |
|
Joakim, I'm probably not telling you anything you don't already know, but the common brown "Norway" rat, despite its biological Latin name, is not native to Norway. It originally came from China and spread to Europe during the Roman Empire. It likely entered Norway via Denmark and Sweden. |
Joakim Ruud
Advanced Member
Username: Joques
Post Number: 527
Registered: 10-2005
Posted From: 84.209.8.118
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 01:17 pm: |
|
Bill, I wasn't aware of that! I thought for sure it was native to Norway. Not that I've ever seen one, mind you...
For to accuse requires less eloquence, such is man's nature, than to
excuse; and condemnation, than absolution, more resembles justice.
-Hobbes, Leviathan
|
Mike
Intermediate Member
Username: Macker
Post Number: 307
Registered: 03-2003
Posted From: 151.151.21.102
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 03:36 pm: |
|
I am not sure that Joakim has what it takes to be a Rat.......his IQ may be too high, and he has a solid command of the English language....
As far as Brewer Zuul, time will tell. BrewRats are generally not creative enough to pull off that kind of troll for very long. If BZ lasts, it ain't a Rat. |
Brewer ZUUL
New Member
Username: Brewer_zuul
Post Number: 4
Registered: 01-2007
Posted From: 67.159.26.26
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 04:11 pm: |
|
this appears to be one of the most paranoid boards that i have ever lurked on and perhaps i should seek out many of the other boards available on the web. i find it somewhat bothersome that a new poster to this forum is almost imediately thought to be a troll or someone else. i do not find that to be very neighborly, perhaps though things will blow over after a few more posts or perhaps i will just sekk out a different knowledge base for what i need |
Rob Farrell
Intermediate Member
Username: Robf
Post Number: 389
Registered: 02-2003
Posted From: 66.174.79.228
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 04:17 pm: |
|
The prevailing accusation is that you may be a rat, ZUUL, not a troll. The paranoia of rats is justified. |
Bill Pierce
Moderator
Username: Billpierce
Post Number: 6383
Registered: 01-2002
Posted From: 24.57.224.220
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 08:27 pm: |
|
I'd hate to think we're paranoid, Brewer ZUUL. Most of us are merely trying to have a little fun while we talk about brewing and beer. It may seem that the fun is at your expense, but we're pretty much equal both as offenders and victims here. |
Brad Petit
Member
Username: Voodoobrew
Post Number: 197
Registered: 06-2005
Posted From: 69.22.24.105
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 08:32 pm: |
|
It was a lot easier to calculate my per-beer cost in the very early days when I had minimal equipment and I was basically just buying ingredients. Now, after all the purchases and re-purchases and whatnot it would take me quite a while to come up with an accurate figure.
And even then, I'd probably still be way off. I just bought ingredients for a 5 gallon batch of blonde ale for $17. Compare that to the previous batch, a DIPA that cost me over $40. And I bet many people, when they're beer shopping, don't realize that some beers can literally cost twice as much to make as others. |
Mike
Intermediate Member
Username: Macker
Post Number: 309
Registered: 03-2003
Posted From: 65.19.225.131
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 09:20 pm: |
|
The BRC goes through a similar phenomenon from time to time, Bill. All the regulars are concerned that any newbie that ventures in is a troll, and chaos prevails.
Of course, running off some folks has been entertaining and necessary. But, none the less, we have probably run off some folks that would have been good Rats.
Welcome to the B&V, Brewer Zuul! |
Jeff Preston
Member
Username: Jeffpreston
Post Number: 236
Registered: 02-2004
Posted From: 142.161.190.178
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 10:10 pm: |
|
Cheapest sewer beer I've seen in Winnipeg is about $18 for a 24 pack, Bill. A sack of Maris Otter cost's about $70 or more. If I did more yeast culturing I could save a fair bit. |
Chumley
Senior Member
Username: Chumley
Post Number: 4595
Registered: 02-2003
Posted From: 63.118.227.254
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 10:33 pm: |
|
When I started brewing in 1990, I used to calculate my cost per bottle. One of the local micros used to sell their shortfill bottles for $13 a case, which was a heck of a deal. I had a hard time jusifying brewing extract beers that didn't taste as good as the shortfills, and for more money to boot.
Then around 1994 I became an all-grain brewer, and in 1996 I got the internet and hooked into the HBD. Suddenly my beer became better than most micros, and I didn't worry about the cost anymore. A $1 a pint is probably a reasonable guess, all expenses considered. |
Dan Listermann
Senior Member
Username: Listermann
Post Number: 3975
Registered: 03-2004
Posted From: 216.23.59.245
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 10:44 pm: |
|
--This space is STILL being left intentionally blank.-
|
Bill Pierce
Moderator
Username: Billpierce
Post Number: 6386
Registered: 01-2002
Posted From: 24.57.224.220
| | Posted on Friday, January 26, 2007 - 11:33 pm: |
|
Jeff, malt (at least the varieties they stock, which is somewhat limited) is one thing I don't pay a lot for. I can buy M.O. for $34 CAD per 25 kg sack and Canadian two-row for $18.50. Surely western malt isn't too expensive in your area.
(Message edited by BillPierce on January 26, 2007) |
Tim Polster
Member
Username: Bassman
Post Number: 233
Registered: 11-2004
Posted From: 68.93.42.3
| | Posted on Saturday, January 27, 2007 - 12:15 am: |
|
At $7.00 - 8.00 a six pack for German beer, I can't afford not to make my own!
Homebrewing is easy to justify if you look at buying a six pack of imported beer every week or two.
$7 x 52 = $364
That is a decent homebrew budget.
Even Bud costs $5 these days, that's $250 right there. |
Steve Funk
Intermediate Member
Username: Tundra45
Post Number: 269
Registered: 06-2004
Posted From: 209.216.184.237
| | Posted on Saturday, January 27, 2007 - 12:57 am: |
|
Around $2000 in various purchases of equipment and supplies divided by about 200 batches to date averages about $10/batch. Add that to about $5/batch for refrigeration electricity and propane usage and I'm up to $15/batch. My last brew was 12.5 gallons and the malt and hops cost about $13, the yeast was free. So, for that last batch I'm at $28/12.5 gal or $0.28/pint. |
Jon Steinhauer
Senior Member
Username: Jstein6870
Post Number: 1077
Registered: 03-2002
Posted From: 74.36.54.246
| | Posted on Saturday, January 27, 2007 - 01:03 am: |
|
Steinhauer
|
Andrew Bales
Intermediate Member
Username: Bales
Post Number: 430
Registered: 10-2002
Posted From: 65.28.53.99
| | Posted on Thursday, February 01, 2007 - 05:34 am: |
|
I get the grain for 50 cents a pound, the hops for free and the yeast I reuse....it is not much. $1/g not counting propane.
But I spend 8 hours making 20g and catch hell for it from the so. That is priceless!
And really lets face it, you know you can brew when you walk into a bar with 40 taps and you won't drink anything that comes out of 37 of them even if it was free. |
Tony Legge
Member
Username: Boo_boo
Post Number: 232
Registered: 05-2005
Posted From: 142.163.64.21
| | Posted on Thursday, February 01, 2007 - 11:43 am: |
|
$23 CDN for a 12 pack of BMC here and $55 for a sack of CM 2 row. And the 2 row has to be ordered in.
Oh how I wish my prices were that of even Ontario. |
The Jolly Brewer
Senior Member
Username: Matfink
Post Number: 1452
Registered: 03-2003
Posted From: 86.128.164.181
| | Posted on Thursday, February 01, 2007 - 12:34 pm: |
|
Ironically, other than electricity, I think the biggest expense in my brewing is yeast, water treatment and irish moss as I've yet to find bulk suppliers of the former two as the wholesalers sell such massive quantities it's not really worth it. I reuse yeast so it is spread over many batches, but is still £5.50 for a WLP yeast and similar for a smack pack.
So all in all, hops and grain cost only a little more than the combined additives in a brew.
"And really lets face it, you know you can brew when you walk into a bar with 40 taps and you won't drink anything that comes out of 37 of them even if it was free."
Great comment! A bit like going to a supermarket with a shelf of 50 odd 'Premium Ales' and there are only 2 or 3 that you would dream of drinking.
(Message edited by matfink on February 01, 2007)
(Message edited by matfink on February 01, 2007) |
Brews and Views Archive 2007 
Closed: New threads not accepted on this page