What’s going on, my fellow brewers? If there’s one habit that has made me a better brewer, it’s journaling. And while any notebook will do, there are some made especially for brewing, like this homebrew journal for craft beer homebrewers.
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Why keep a brew journal?
In my post on brew journals and journaling I explain it this way: how do you get better at something? Repetition. By writing everything down, you’re not just brewing your beer, you’re committing your routine deeper into your memory.
In my full brewing routine I mention that I journal everything I do when brewing with kits. It’s a great way to keep track of what you’ve done and a litmus test for where you can improve. If you make a mistake, or brew a really good beer, it’s great to be able to look back and see why.
Journals made for brewing
Besides the one above, I also like this Moleskine beer passion journal and this brew log book. These are sweet and are going to be worth their weight in gold (or brewing experience) once you fill them up with data from your brewing journey.
You don’t need a fancy one
I want to be honest: these journals are by no means necessary. Any bound notebook would work just as great for what you need it to do. The important thing is that you start writing.
When should you start?
Now. It doesn’t matter if you’ve started brewing or not, now is the best time to get a beer journal. Record everything you do before, during and after your brew day.
A great gift
In my gift ideas post I call a brew journal an awesome gift for any homebrewer. They’ll remember you every time they write down a mistake, a success or a great brew. You can brew it!
Read more: Brew journals and journaling, Give brew kits as a gift: ideas for every brewer, How I brew beer with a kit, start to finish