Every accomplished brewer started somewhere, probably with more questions than answers and a healthy dose of nervousness about their first batch. The brilliant thing about brewing is that there's an incredible community of knowledge-sharers ready to help you master this ancient craft.
We've gathered our favourite educational resources that will transform you from curious beginner to confident brewer, European brewing traditions and all.
Foundational Reading for Serious Brewers
The beauty of learning to brew lies in understanding both the art and science behind each pint. These books will give you that foundation whilst keeping things engaging and practical.
How to Brew by John Palmer
Palmer's approach to brewing education has influenced brewers across continents, and for good reason. This comprehensive guide tackles everything from basic extract brewing through to advanced all-grain techniques. What sets it apart is how Palmer explains complex biochemical processes in terms that actually make sense to us mere mortals.
The book's systematic approach means you'll understand not just what to do, but why each step matters for creating exceptional beer.
Brewing Classic Styles by Jamil Zainasheff
European beer styles have shaped brewing culture worldwide, and Zainasheff's recipe collection pays proper homage to these traditions. With 80 carefully crafted recipes covering everything from delicate German lagers to robust English ales, this book provides the roadmap for brewing authentic European styles in your own kitchen.
Each recipe includes detailed notes about historical context and ingredient substitutions, which is particularly useful when sourcing European specialty malts and hops.
Audio Learning That Fits Your Schedule
The Brewing Network's Educational Catalogue
European brewers have embraced podcast learning in a big way, and The Brewing Network offers some of the most respected brewing education available. Their 'Brew Strong' series, hosted by Palmer and Zainasheff, delivers technical brewing knowledge through engaging discussions rather than dry lectures.
'The Session' podcast offers broader perspectives on brewing culture, including insights into European craft brewing movements and traditional brewing techniques that are experiencing renewed interest across the continent.
Connecting with Local Brewing Culture
European Homebrew Communities
The European brewing scene is wonderfully diverse, with each region bringing its own traditions and innovations. Your local homebrew supplier likely stocks ingredients specific to your area's brewing heritage – whether that's Belgian specialty yeasts, German noble hops, or English heritage barley varieties.
Many European homebrew shops organise brewing demonstrations and tasting sessions where you can connect with experienced brewers who understand local ingredients and seasonal brewing considerations.
Traditional Brewing Knowledge
Don't overlook the wealth of traditional European brewing knowledge available in your region. Local brewing guilds, beer appreciation societies, and even established commercial breweries often welcome enthusiastic homebrewers seeking to learn traditional techniques.
Digital Resources for Modern Brewers
We've developed our brewing resources with European brewers in mind, offering measurement conversions, ingredient substitutions, and techniques suited to European ingredients and conditions. Our comprehensive guides cover everything from selecting appropriate water treatment for your local water profile to timing seasonal brews around European climate patterns.
Professional brewing organisations across Europe also maintain excellent educational resources, particularly for understanding regional beer styles and traditional brewing methods that are experiencing revival among craft brewers.
Ready to dive deeper into brewing? Our Brewing 101 series covers everything you need to know about brewing exceptional beer at home.
Have questions about adapting recipes for European ingredients or conditions? Contact us – we love helping brewers perfect their craft.
Grainfather Team
