Scottish Export

[bottlebass]

I found a kit down in basement. Can says just add sugar and water. Makes 40 pints. Made by geordie. Haven't made any in about 7 years. Any suggestions on how to get started? I am kind of foggy.

[mortong]

Rule #1: Never follow the instructions on an extract can.
Rule #2: Never use sugar in your beer unless you have no choice.

;)

What's included in the kit, how many pounds of extract and how old is the can?

Welcome back to homebrewing!

[bottlebass]

The can has got to be 7 or 8 years old. Weight of the extract 1.6 kg (3.53 lb)

[bottlebass]

Not even priming sugar?

[mortong]

I still use priming sugar when I bottle, but I'd be hesitant to use it to add fermentables. You'd have a lot more character using only extract for the primary fermentation.

3.53# only gets you to 1.026 OG. You might want to buy another can of the same size to bump that up.

I'm not sure about the age of the can. It might still be good, but then again it might not. If you do a search, I think you'll find a few other threads about the shelf-life of canned malt (here's one (http://www.realbeer.com/discussions/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2392)). Also, you might be well-off to check the recipes section to find a style you like, and base your first new beer on that.

[Stumptown]

Originally posted by bottlebass
The can has got to be 7 or 8 years old. Weight of the extract 1.6 kg (3.53 lb)

Sweet Lord, throw that can away at once! 7 or 8 YEARS? I would hesitate to use a liquid extract that is 7 or 8 MONTHS old. That can is junk. In any case, if you are unsure of the quality of the ingredients, throw them out and get new ones so you don't waste your time brewing bad beer.

[mortong]

To get started again go here (http://www.howtobrew.com/intro.html). John Palmer's, How to Brew is one of the best online resources for getting started, and he walks through all the steps. I think he even gives some good starter recipes.