Q&A compiled by Kristen Kuchar

High-quality craft beer is easy to find in Colorado. But what about making it yourself? There might be a lot of concerns associated with homebrewing – where to get started, how much does it cost, and will I actually make a good beer?

The Brew Hut’s Mark Hurley with the store’s homebrewing starter kit.

We asked The Brew Hut’s general manager Mark Hurley and co-owner Kevin DeLange to weigh in on some advice for newcomers to the hobby. DeLange also co-owns Dry Dock Brewing, adjacent to The Brew Hut in Aurora.

What do you think are the common misconceptions about homebrewing that intimidates those interested in getting started?

Mark Hurley: The most common misconception is that it will take a long time to start making beer that tastes good. There are so many great recipes available, and as long as you are cleaning and sanitizing properly, you can absolutely make great beer on your first try.

What are the essential start-up items needed to start homebrewing?

Hurley: Our Deluxe Homebrew Starter Kit has everything you need to start brewing. It includes a kettle, primary fermenter, thermometer, hydrometer, cleaning and sanitizing supplies, and bottling equipment. You will then need ingredients for your recipe and bottles. We recommend starting with a tried-and-true recipe or an ingredient kit that has everything assembled and ready to go.

For someone who has zero equipment, can you give a price range of what it would cost to get started?

Hurley: The cost varies depending on the equipment you buy, but generally the cost ranges between $100 and $150.

Tell us a little about how homebrewing can save money.

Hurley: Homebrewing is one of those rare hobbies that can actually save you money. With an initial investment of around $150 in equipment, you can cut your beer costs by as much as 85 percent. A pint of homebrewed IPA costs about $1.15 in comparison to $7 or so at a bar or restaurant. So a homebrewed batch of 5 gallons (40 pints) delivers a savings of about $235.

What are the common mistakes of a beginner homebrewer?

Hurley: There are two common mistakes that we see with new homebrewers. The first is not cleaning and sanitizing the equipment properly, which can lead to bacteria and mold growth in your beer. While there is nothing that can grow in beer that can hurt you, those things can certainly make it taste bad.

The second mistake is brewers worrying that they need to know everything about brewing before jumping in and making their first beer. That’s not the case. One of the greatest things about homebrewing is that we are always continuing to learn. So make that first beer and have fun. You will end up with great beer and your brewing will continue to improve with time.

Any other advice for a new homebrewer?

Kevin DeLange: As Charlie Papazian famously said, “Don’t worry, have a homebrew.” That still rings true today. My other advice is to ask for help. When I first homebrewed I did it through mail order and had to figure things out on my own. When I moved to Denver and could shop at an actual homebrew store, I was embarrassed to ask for help. Not a wise move. Homebrew shops are here to support you. The best part of working at The Brew Hut is helping people succeed and make a great batch of beer.

The Brewing Hut was founded in 1995 and was the catalyst for Dry Dock Brewing Company, located next door. The American Homebrewers Association has previously named the store “Homebrew Shop of the Year.” For more information, visit thebrewhut.com.