Blueprint Brewing - Practice Makes Porter

There is no good reason why I have waited so long to post a review for my first successful batch of home brew.  As you read above, there is now a name for the beer and a somewhat unofficial name for my brewing operation.  I think it works and I am going to run with it for now.  A thank you goes to The Wife for the creative input on both names.

Perhaps I am harder on this than others since it is my creation, but I probably graded it a bit easier than normal as well.  Overall the reaction has been very positive among the family and friends that I have given samples to.  They have no reason to lie because anyone who likes it will probably end up with some from the next batch as well.  For example, here is what Gary from Orlando, Florida had to say (which I can post now after the game 2 win last night):

“I found the frothy brew to be a full bodied, masculine one-two punch. The smooth undertones embraced my palette while not stepping on the toes of the brawny bite. My night was complete with this dark partner and a win from the Yankees!”

Who would have guessed that I only had to give some beer away to get that type of response?  I would have been happy with no one getting sick on it (which has not happened).  Since I had one while brewing a batch of pumpkin ale this afternoon and another while writing this review, it’s safe to say that I am fairly pleased with it overall.  Of course, there is plenty of room for improvement, so I will just have to keep brewing!

Brewery: Blueprint Brewing (Winter Park, Florida)

Name: Practice Makes Porter

Style: (Brown) Porter

ABV: 5.0% (plus or minus as a result of a broken hydrometer)

Tasting Notes: Stored in the bathtub, cooled in the fridge and served in a pint glass.

Aroma: Some roasted aroma with a slight burnt note.  Light amount of sweetness.

Appearance: Dark, dark brown with lighter hues when held to light.  One to two finger, light brown head with slow(ish) dissipation and no trail.  All but opaque, but you can see clearly through the edges (with rising bubbles visible) when held to light.

Flavor: Roasted graininess (not too strong) with no real hop flavor or bitterness.  Some sharpness at finish (lingers a bit).

Mouthfeel: Medium body with medium to high carbonation that gives a slight bite.  Somewhat creamy . . . . Maybe a result of honey?

Overall Impressions: Over carbonated for what I would like.  It makes me wonder what the double yeast application did to the final flavor.  Definitely better as it warms and the flavor seems to vary in some of the bottles.  Overall, not a bad beer for my first (drinkable) home brew.

Grade: C+ (maybe B-)

A pour for me and The Wife

Frothy goodness

The Wife's review via a gift from The Brother-in-law