What’s up, y’all! If you’ve been reading Brew with Kits for a while, you know I get asked one question more than any other: which starter kit should I buy? For most brand-new brewers my answer is the same, and it’s the Mr. Beer Premium Gold Edition starter kit.
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Why this is the kit I point people to
When I wrote up which beer brewing starter kit is best for you, this was the kit I ended up recommending. The reason is simple. It comes with nearly everything you need for your first batch, so you’re not running around trying to figure out what you forgot.
Here’s what the kit description lists: a compact fermenter, reusable shatterproof bottles designed for carbonating beer, a can of brewing extract (malted barley and hops), a no-rinse cleanser and carbonation drops for bottle conditioning. When I wrote about it, it also came with refills for a second batch. Kit contents can change over time, so check the current listing before you buy.
Bottles included is a big deal
One thing I always tell people is to check whether a starter kit includes bottles or some other way to store your beer. A lot of kits don’t, and then you have to spend more money before you can bottle. This one includes bottles and caps, which is one less thing to worry about on your first bottling day.
Save your money for more beer
You don’t need the fanciest equipment to brew a great beer. I’d much rather see you start simple and put your money toward more beer kit refills, sugars and additives. That’s how you really learn and have fun with this hobby. In my Brewing with Kits 101 guide I suggest just going with a starter kit like this one, and in my cost breakdown it’s the kit I point to as a great place to start.
If you’re on the fence, my advice is to go for it. Pick up a kit, read the instructions and get your first batch going. You can brew it!
Read more: What beer brewing starter kit is best for you?, Brewing with kits 101: how to brew beer using a kit, Brewing with kits cost breakdown: how much will it cost?