Newbie question: Is there any good brewing reason not to brew in 3 gallon batches(24 16 ounce bottles). I also have wondered about palm sugar as an brewing ingredient. I've used it in coffee, baking and pouriges, and find it delicious. Anyone try it, I buy it at a local Indian supermarket. Fran

FranBrewer77 wrote:Is there any good brewing reason not to brew in 3 gallon batches(24 16 ounce bottles)

Yes. Everything available for brewing revolves around 5 gallons, and for the love of God, why would you want to brew less beer?!?

Actually, 3 gallon batches aren't that uncommon. You can even buy 3 gallon carboys. It would be great for perfecting a recipe.

I don't see why not to use Palm sugar. I'm pretty sure it's molecular similar to cane sugar, which will ferment out and leave your beer with a lighter body and dryer finish (and, of course, raise the alcohol accordingly). Go ahead and try it, but I wouldn't expect much flavor addition from it.

Thanks Curlyfat, Will keep notes on all the leads I've read in this fine forum. I've been on a number of forums in the last few years(different topics) and it is always an adventure. There is such a depth to each individual; here,we share an interest in brewing but come from such diverse places. I was in the midst of studying the nutritionist Kevin Trudeau, and he mentioned is one likes beer and wine by all means brew it yourself, you cannot trust the corps. for ingredient quality amd occult additions.That was enough for me, simultaneously I had jump started my love of brewed drinks thru one taste of Steels 211 . I've chosen a Coopers ale yeast and components for my first batch. I do have another question, I have a supply of 5 gallon water jugs, and they be used as fermenting? Also , does dried yeast in foil packs have a long shelf life? Thanks for all the info I've gleaned here. Fran

Are the water jugs glass or plastic? If they're glass, you're good to go. We call those carboys! If they're plastic, I've heard mixed things. I talked to a local guy (today, actually) that uses used Culligan jugs (plastic) with no troubles. I've also heard, however, that the plastic they use can't handle acidic things like beer and wine and will leach nasty flavors out. So, your call on that one!