2torial #0726:
Learn2 Brew Your Own Beer (continued)

Ferment the brew

During fermentation, the yeast starts consuming the wort, which produces carbon dioxide and alcohol. To foster this process, you should:

• Store the vessel in a cool, dark location, such as your basement or a closet. Don't put it in direct sunlight.

• Put the fermentation lock in place on top of the vessel. Directions for how to use the lock will differ depending on what kind you purchase. Basically, the lock's job is to let carbon dioxide out, but not allow any air in.

When fermentation is at its peak (after about 2 days), the airlock may make a gargling sound as carbon dioxide bubbles rapidly exit the fermenting vessel. Even when beer-scented bubbles are escaping from the lock, don't open the vessel. If you open it too early, you can contaminate the beer.

• After 7 days, measure the amount of time between bubbles escaping from the lock. When at least a minute elapses between bubbles, plan to bottle your beer the next day.