Jennifer Blair

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Stephanie Butler

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Jen Pereira

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Jeff Whelpley

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In March, American Homebrewers Association (AHA) members elected four new board members from a slate of 10 candidates, selected from an original pool of 28 nominees.

The AHA is beyond excited to welcome Jen Blair, Stephanie Butler, Jen Pereira, and Jeff Whelpley to the AHA Board of Directors. Each will serve a three-year term, joining continuing board members Shawna Cormier, Drew Beechum, and Gregory Roskopf.

The new board will be officially seated at the AHA’s 2026 annual meeting on June 20, 2026, in Asheville, NC, during Homebrew Con—AHA’s annual member gathering.

Thank you to all candidates who ran in this year’s election, and to the AHA members who cast their votes.

We also extend sincere gratitude to our departing AHA Board members, Sandy Cockerham and Gary Glass. As Founding Board members, their dedication to homebrewing and to representing members of the newly independent AHA has been instrumental in shaping our future.

Thank you, Sandy and Gary!

AHA Board Chair Shawna Cormier shared:

“The work started by the AHA Founding Board to bring the association to a new future has been impressive to say the least. With our new elected board members, we are positioned to help the AHA grow for generations. We look forward to bringing AHA’s vision of ‘a homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community’ to life.”

Learn more about all AHA committees and the AHA Board.

About the American Homebrewers Association (AHA) – Founded in 1978, the American Homebrewers Association is built and directed by members, grounded in the values of Community, Education, Joy, and Volunteerism. We deliver unmatched reasons (Zymurgy® magazine), recipes (National Homebrew Competition–validated), resources (HomebrewersAssociation.org), and rewards (AHA Member Deals, Annual Recognition Awards, and National Homebrew Competition Awards).

The AHA operates as both a 501(c)(6) membership organization and a 501(c)(3) supporting organization (the A-HA Foundation). Join us.

The post American Homebrewers Association Board Welcomes 4 New Members in 2026 appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

Not investors.Not shareholders.Homebrewers.

That spirit is exactly what makes this moment, and this news post, so meaningful. It’s not every day a community can announce approval from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service of both a 501(c)(6) membership association and a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit, and that is what we are announcing.

Following the transition and a new approach to the Executive Director role in 2021, a role I’ve been honored to fill since then, the AHA began documenting organizational gaps and opportunities.

Why?

One of the biggest questions I kept pondering was: How do we preserve our community and what members love about the AHA while expanding what homebrewing and the association can become? The answer, as we later learned in 2025, was to build complementary nonprofits to serve both goals and go independent from the parent organization AHA was coupled to.

Interesting sidenote: Way back in 1978, the AHA originally formed as a (c)(3) under Charlie Papazian, Charlie Matzen, and a band of motivated, merry, and maverick homebrewers. Once again, this same status allows the AHA to expand public education and outreach efforts behind homebrewing and membership work, and at the same time open doors to grants and charitable donations.

Originally, when planning to become independent from the Brewers Association (BA), the AHA was only looking at forming as a new (c)(3). However, having both IRS classifications gives the AHA the flexibility to continue to serve members under the (c)(6) while advancing broader fundraising efforts and work behind the cultural, historical, and societal importance of homebrewing under the (c)(3). Lofty words…I know.

Members Built Independence

In a process that required many, many months of planning and coordination with volunteer leaders, staff, and professional advisors, the most important ingredient was member support. Your membership confirms that homebrewing merits a dedicated national organization, and we deliver value. Simply put, your belief made independence possible.

Across many eras, a huge hat’s off to the AHA’s thousands of pre- and post-COVID volunteers, including the former Governing Committee (GC), dozens of other collective committees, hundreds of National Homebrew Competition and Homebrew Con volunteers, the AHA’s post-independence Founding Board, and the collective new volunteer member leaders who have stepped up to sit on our now-nine-active committees.

Additionally, the AHA’s transition was made possible through cooperation across many partners, including the BA, whose board of directors and staff support helped ensure continuity as the AHA established its independent future.

What This Means for You

These new IRS-designated nonprofits ensure homebrewers themselves guide the AHA. This milestone belongs to the entire homebrewing community.

Expanded Education and Outreach

New charitable programs can introduce more people to brewing. The hobby’s national organization is guided by its community.

Grant and Donation Opportunities

New fundraising efforts will help grow our reach and impact.

Long-Term Stability

Independent nonprofit status strengthens the AHA’s future sustainability.

Why Colorado and Texas?

Because both states are now tied to the AHA’s heritage and new path. Colorado is where the AHA was founded in 1978, and where modern American homebrewing and the craft beer movement, which grew out of homebrewing, helped take root and now homebase to our new c6 membership org.

Today, Texas is where AHA’s new operational team is based, and where much of our daily organizational work is done by our Association Management Company, Strategic Association Management. Establishing our c3 charitable entity in Texas supports efficient operations while strengthening our national and global work.

Now for a little Nonprofit 101. While the structure may sound complex, it simply reflects how the AHA is organized to best serve members and the broader homebrewing community. These two nonprofits work together: the Colorado-based membership organization maintains the AHA’s historic roots and member governance, while the Texas-based AHA Foundation advances educational and charitable programs aligned with our operational home. Though the Foundation is not a membership entity, members will have many opportunities to support and fuel its work, which in turn strengthens the AHA as a whole.

Now What?

Anything goes! Initial committees, organization priorities, bylaws, and policies…these can and should be updated to keep pace with new needs. New committees will be formed to fuel the on-the-ground work, and member benefits will ebb and flow based on what is most valued by (you guessed it) you, the AHA members.

We have stakeholders, and independence was made possible by stakeholder members who believe homebrewing deserves its own future. Also good to point out that, from the AHA’s new strategic plan, our values are Community, Education, Joy, and Volunteerism. Here is to all those things and the FUN of the world’s most rewarding hobby. Cheers.

Julia Herz is executive director of the American Homebrewers Association, an Advanced Cicerone®, a Certified BJCP Judge, a Certified Association Executive (C.A.E.) an author, and a homebrewer. You can follow Julia’s homebrew adventures on Instagram @ImmaculateFermentation. A version of this news post will also appear in Zymurgy Magazine, May/June 2026.

The post History in the Making: American Homebrewers Association 501(c)(3) and c6 Application Approved! appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Homebrew Shop of the Year Award, the most prestigious recognition a supply shop can earn in homebrewing. If your local shop keeps the hobby thriving—helping brewers learn, experiment, and connect—now’s the time to show them some love!

Submit your nomination by May 1 at 11:59 p.m. MT.

Award recipients will be recognized by the AHA community later this year.

Want to help spread the word? Download nomination assets to share on your club’s social media, website, or newsletter and rally support for your favorite shop.

What Makes a Homebrew Shop Award-Worthy?

AHA members are invited to nominate shops that go above and beyond in supporting the homebrewing community. Winning shops typically shine in areas such as:

• Supporting and building the local homebrew community
• Providing education and guidance for brewers of all levels
• Delivering excellent customer service and engagement
• Promoting homebrewing to the public
• Practicing responsible and community-minded business operations

One important note: a shop cannot win the award more than once within a five-year period.

Check out past AHA award winners and see the shops that have helped shape the homebrewing community.

Questions?

Contact AHA Community Manager Emily Hughes at emily@homebrewersassociation.org.

The post Nominations Open: 2026 AHA Homebrew Shop of the Year appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

The American Homebrewers Association invites active members to participate in the 2026 Board of Directors election. This year’s slate responded to AHA’s open call for nominations and represents a range of experience, perspectives, and commitment. AHA received strong interest, and the Board selected a slate of ten candidates from a pool of 28 applicants to appear on the member ballot.

Board Composition for This Election

As part of AHA’s transition to independence beginning in 2025, Board terms are staggered to support organizational continuity.

In this election, members will vote to fill four open Board seats. At the same time, three current founding directors continue to serve their existing terms, expanding the Board from five to seven directors.

Voting Period and Guidelines

• Voting is open March 2, 2026, through March 29, 2026

• Voting is open to active AHA members only
• Each member may vote for up to four (4) candidates
• Members may vote only once per candidate

Not an active member? Join the AHA here. Need account assistance? Contact your AHA membership team via email or phone.

Voting Considerations

The next Board will play an essential role in guiding AHA’s future and long-term sustainability. A strong Board reflects diverse experience working together in the service of AHA’s future.

As you review candidates, consider:

• Commitment to AHA’s mission and vision
• Ability to think strategically and govern collaboratively
• Willingness to serve the interests of the full membership
• Skills and perspectives that strengthen the Board as a whole

Learn more about Board responsibilities in the AHA Board Charter under Volunteer Opportunities.

Board roles and election procedures are defined in the AHA Bylaws.

AHA 2026 Top Priorities

The incoming Board will support AHA’s success in:

• Association sustainability
• Membership benefit evolution
• Marketing and content strategy
• Execution of Homebrew Con and the National Homebrew Competition
• Membership growth through clubs and homebrew shops
• Continued strengthening of governance and committee structures

Election Timeline

• March 2 – Voting opens
• March 12 – Meet Your AHA Board Candidates (AHA Happy Hour via Zoom, 6:00 pm MT)
• March 29 – Voting closes
• April 7 – Results announced
• June 19 – First meeting of the newly seated Board on site during AHA’s annual gathering, Homebrew Con to happen in Asheville, North Carolina

Thank you for helping steward the future of homebrewing. The American Homebrewers Association runs on members like you.

The post Concluded: AHA Board of Directors Election appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

The world’s biggest homebrew party is officially back—and registration for Homebrew Con 2026 is NOW OPEN. 

Join us June 19–20, 2026, in Asheville, North Carolina, with the National Homebrew Competition (NHC) Final Round judging happening June 17–18 and the NHC Awards Ceremony + Knock-Out Party on June 20. Yes, it’s a full-on homebrew takeover. 

After a pause since 2023 and a whole lot of behind-the-scenes rebuilding as your newly independent American Homebrewers Association, we are beyond ready to raise a pint with you again. Homebrew Con is the world’s longest running and largest homebrew gathering now 46 years strong.  

What Your Conference Registration Includes 

Two jam-packed days of pure homebrew magic: 

• Brewers Talks packed with insights and inspiration 
• Fast-paced Ignite Talks   
• Homebrew Expo featuring top suppliers and fermentation experts 
• Homebrew Hospitality and community gatherings  
• The legendary Club Night  
• The National Homebrew Competition Awards Ceremony 
• The Knock-Out Party to cap it all off 

All official Homebrew Con events take place at the Harrah’s Cherokee Center in downtown Asheville, with the NHC Awards Ceremony and Knock-Out Party hosted at The Renaissance on June 20. Book your hotel on the Homebrew Con website.

Smaller Event. Bigger Energy. Limited Tickets. 

Here’s the deal: HBC 2026 will be smaller than years past. 

We’re intentionally keeping it tight, focused, and community-driven. That also means tickets are limited—and we fully expect this to sell out. Act NOW.  

If Homebrew Con has been on your “someday” list, consider this your friendly nudge from the universe. Someday is now.  

Registration is $334.95 per person, and you must be an active AHA member to attend. (Because this party is for the people who make the hobby awesome.)  

Why This Year Matters 

Homebrew Con 2026 isn’t just another conference. It’s a celebration of the AHA’s new chapter, powered by volunteers, fueled by sponsors, and built around you—the homebrewers and homebrew clubs who keep this hobby thriving. 

As we shared in our independence updates, our vision is bold and simple: 

A homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community  

Homebrew Con is where that vision comes to life in real time. You’ll brew friendships. You’ll share recipes like family heirlooms. You’ll learn something that changes your next batch forever. You will connect with the best and brightest—the who’s who of homebrewing. 

Want to Get Involved? 

Applications for: 

• Club Night 
• Homebrew Hospitality 
• Media and influencer access 
• Volunteer roles 

…will roll out in the coming weeks. Keep an eye on your AHA emails and the Homebrew Con website for updates. 

Suppliers, educators, and fermentation-focused businesses interested in sponsoring or exhibiting can reach out to Kian Zozobrado at partnerships@homebrewersassociation.org. 

Ready to Register? 

Visit the Homebrew Con website for the full schedule, hotel information, and to grab your ticket before they’re gone.  

See you in Asheville!  

The post Registration Open for Homebrew Con 2026  appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

Stay tuned for additional updates in the coming months.

Below is an overview of current AHA membership options and the benefits that come with being part of the world’s largest homebrewing community.

2026 AHA Membership Options

Why did pricing change slightly this year? Like many nonprofits, AHA incurs credit card processing costs when members join or register for events online. Rather than passing the full cost along, AHA absorbs approximately half of these fees to keep participation affordable. A small portion of processing costs is reflected in the product pricing total you see.

Why AHA Membership Matters

Nowhere else can homebrewers access the depth and breadth of benefits that the AHA provides. Membership supports and includes access to:

Advocacy & Industry Representation

• State and federal advocacy efforts that protect and advance homebrewers’ rights
• Representation in media and public policy discussions
• Support for state-based initiatives
• Ongoing visibility for homebrewing nationwide

Community & Connection

• The AHA Forum, one of the world’s longest-running online homebrewing communities, featuring expert moderators, a global membership base, and an in-person meet-up at Homebrew Con
• AHA Happy Hours and member engagement events
• Zymurgy Live and access to premiere brewing and fermentation and AHA member experts
• Volunteer committees offering leadership opportunities, professional development, and hands-on involvement in both our 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(6) initiatives

Competitions & Events

• Access to enter the National Homebrew Competition (NHC) — the world’s largest and longest-running homebrew competition for beer, mead, and cider
• Eligibility to attend Homebrew Con, the AHA’s annual conference bringing together members since 1979
• AHA/BJCP-sanctioned competition calendar and prize support
• Annual Homebrew Holidays that give members and clubs opportunities to brew together, host public demos, and recruit new homebrewers: Big Brew (May), Home Fermentation Day (August), and Learn to Homebrew Day (November)
• Great American Beer Festival presale ticket access

Education & Resources

• HomebrewersAssociation.org, featuring thousands of medal-winning recipes from the National Homebrew Competition and seminar archives from Homebrew Con
• The Zymurgy magazine archive and current issues (print and/or digital depending on membership type)
• The What’s Brewing newsletter
• Exposure to leading AHA members and fermentation suppliers, educators, and industry experts
• Access to over 1,800 discounts on beer, food, and homebrew supplies through our Member Deals

Clubs & Local Support

• Access to the world’s leading Homebrew Club Directory and Homebrew Supply Shop Directory
• Club insurance program, with reimbursement support when 75% of club members are AHA members
• National Recognition Awards

Membership directly supports the programs, events, advocacy, and resources that strengthen the homebrewing community nationwide.

For a detailed breakdown of member benefits, visit our Membership Benefits page.

Update on Monthly Membership

As we continue to evaluate additional membership tiers for our dedicated homebrewer members, we’re grateful to all monthly members for their support and look forward to continuing to serve them through annual membership options.

As of February 25, 2026, the AHA sunset the monthly membership option.

Current and renewing monthly members will be grandfathered in until July 31, 2026. At that time, pre-existing monthly memberships will conclude, and members will have the opportunity to transition to an annual membership option.

Behind the Scenes: The monthly option represented a very small portion of overall AHA membership (approximately 3%). As we look ahead, we’re focusing on streamlining our membership structure so we can dedicate more energy and resources to the programs, events, advocacy, and community connections that matter most to homebrewers. Moving to annual memberships also allows us to simplify administration and maintain a strong, secure payment process. We also are looking at how to add longer term memberships for increased savings to members. Stay tuned.

If you have questions about your membership, our Member Services team is here to help via phone or email.

Thank you for being part of the American Homebrewers Association — together, we continue to advance and celebrate the art of homebrewing working to ensure our hobby and the AHA are here for all future generations to come.

The post AHA 2026 Overview – Membership Options (February 25, 2026)   appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

The post March/April 2026 Zymurgy Magazine Now Available appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

2026 marks the NHC’s 48th year, proudly brought to you by the American Homebrewers Association and supported by the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP). Since 1979, more than 170,000 entries have been judged. Make 2026 your year to go for the gold.

Put your beer, cider, or mead to the test, get invaluable judge feedback from some of the world’s top-level BJCP, Cicerone®, and community judges, and compete for glory and prizes in the largest beer competition on the planet.

Registration closes February 25, 2026, 8 AM MT.

Competition Details

The 2026 competition includes (9) nine First Round judging sites, one Final Round judging and the awards ceremony both during Homebrew Con in Asheville, NC in June. That means HBC is eleven (11) total events. Brewers are welcome to select their preferred First Round site and do not need to choose the one that is geographically closest to them. Judging dates vary by location. There is a cap of 750 entries per location, so act fast to secure your spot. For more details, visit the NHC website.

What’s New for 2026

• Nine First Round locations up from seven in 2025.
• Each First Round judging location is capped at 750 entries, so don’t wait to grab your spot.
• Final Round judging and awards will happen in concert with Homebrew Con (AHA’s main member conference) in Asheville, NC, June 17-18.
• New Competition Chair and Deputy Chair.
• The price! For 2026 registration, we’ve lowered the price from $29 to $19 per entry, with an additional $10 fee if an entry qualifies for Final Round.
• Speaking of cash… this year we’ve upped the game and are awarding cash prizes. Yeah, really. Check out details on the NHC website.

For full NHC details, an overview of all dates and details, entry delivery dates, awards and prizes, visit the NHC website.

First Round Judging and Receiving Dates

• Chicago
  • Judging Date(s): April 7-11
  • Receiving Dates: March 20-27
• Indianapolis
  • Judging Date(s): March 27-28
  • Receiving Dates: March 4-14
• Kansas City, MO
  • Judging Date(s): Apr 13-18 Receiving Dates: March 15-28
• Longmont
  • Judging Date(s): April 10-12
  • Receiving Dates: March 28-April 3
• Philadelphia
  • Judging Date(s): April 9-10
  • Receiving Dates: March 13-March 27
• San Francisco
  • Judging Date(s): April 11-13
  • Receiving Dates: March 21-April 2
• San Diego
  • Judging Date(s): March 14-16
  • Receiving Dates: February 23-March 6
• Seattle
  • Judging Date(s): April 17-19
  • Receiving Dates: April 6-11
• Tampa
  • Judging Date(s): April 10-19
  • Receiving Dates: March 17-28

Final Round Judging and Receiving Dates

Specific dates to be confirmed by May 1.

First Round entrants will receive BJCP scoresheets within BAP once judging is complete. The Bronze, Silver and Gold in each category will advance to the Final Round. If you have advanced to the Final Round, you will be notified before May 1.

Questions?

The National Homebrew Competition is open to American Homebrewers Association (AHA) members only. Join the AHA today to enter.

For questions about BAP, and anything NHC-related, reach out to the AHA by phone or email.

Want a deeper dive? Join the conversation on the AHA forum with our Chair and Deputy Chair.

The post NHC 2026 Registration Open through Feb. 25 appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

Their leadership marks a significant step forward for the NHC and the AHA as a member-driven association. An overview of their roles is here.

Charlie Harr, NHC Chair

Charlie Harr brings more than 20 years of operations and event management experience, along with a strong passion for brewing education and excellence organizing beer competitions. As head judge for the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild, Harr oversees large-scale, AHA/Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) sanctioned competitions, managing logistics, judge recruitment, entry coordination, and volunteer teams. He is currently pursuing BJCP National Judge certification, has been an AHA member for many years, and has competed in the NHC as an entrant.

“My experience managing large-scale competitions and passion for advancing homebrewing education make this an ideal opportunity to support both the AHA and homebrewing. I am honored to chair the NHC.” — Charlie Harr

“The AHA and National Homebrew Competition are extremely fortunate to have Charlie and Jen stepping up to lead along with the collective volunteer judges, competition organizers, subcommittee and AHA member entrants.” —Julia Herz, AHA Executive Director

Jen Pereira, Deputy Chair

Jen Pereira brings more than 25 years of experience in beverage education, judging, and competition leadership. A BJCP National Beer Judge, Certified Cicerone®, and WSET Diploma holder, Pereira has judged and organized competitions at every level. She is the founder of both the Ocean State Home Brew Competition and the Rhode Worthy Cup and has spent over two decades as an associate professor at Johnson and Wales University. She is also a past NHC judge and an avid homebrewer.

“This role is a meaningful way to give back to a community that has given me so much, and I’m proud to help lead the AHA and help grow the NHC’s impact.” — Jen Pereira

Harr and Pereira will be supported by AHA’s NHC Subcommittee, led by AHA members Sandy Cockerham and Amanda Burkemper.

Entries for the 2026 National Homebrew Competition open February 3 and close February 25. Start brewing now, and please monitor HomebrewersAssociation.org for the latest AHA news. Join the AHA to enter the NHC.

About the American Homebrewers Association (AHA)

The AHA, founded in 1978, is built and directed by members. We deliver unmatched benefits (Zymurgy Magazine), recipes (NHC-validated), resources (HomebrewersAssociation.org), and rewards (AHA Member Deals, Annual Recognition Awards, and National Homebrew Competition Awards). The association serves a community of tens of thousands of members and connects and celebrates homebrewers worldwide. Our vision is simple yet powerful: A homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community. Join us.

About the National Homebrew Competition (NHC)

Founded in 1979 with just 34 entries, the NHC is now the world’s largest homebrew competition, honoring world-class beer, mead, and cider created by homebrewers everywhere. Since 2025, nearly 170,000 entries have been evaluated annually, bringing together beer’s best homebrewers, fermenters, top beer judges, stewards, and volunteer competition leaders.

The post Meet Your National Homebrew Competition Chairs appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

The AHA runs on passionate homebrewers. Board members play a key role in shaping strategy, guiding committees, and keeping the organization member-led and future-focused. If you care about the future of homebrewing, we want you!

Nominate someone or apply now through February 7.

Who Should Be Nominated

We’re looking for AHA members who are:

• Passionate about the AHA’s mission, vision, and strategic direction
• Forward-thinking and open to change
• Knowledgeable and experienced in homebrewing and nonprofit governance
• Comfortable running meetings, setting agendas, and following through
• Collaborative and committed

What Does Board Service Involve?

• Term: Three years
• Committees: Chair or Vice-Chair a committee
• Meetings: Most months include a virtual meeting, plus two in-person meetings per year. Travel expenses covered by the AHA.
  • 2026 meeting schedule:
    • May 12: New board attends the Founding Board’s final meeting (virtual)
    • June 18–20: Homebrew Con in Asheville, N.C. (board meeting held June 19, in person)
    • July 14: Virtual meeting
    • Sept. 8: Virtual meeting
    • Oct. 14–16: In-person board planning retreat in Austin, Texas
    • Dec. 8: Virtual meeting
    • Virtual meetings are held 5 pm MT to 6:30 pm MT

It’s a meaningful and rewarding commitment. Help guide the AHA during an exciting period of growth, and ensure the organization stays member-led and future-focused.

Learn more about committees and expectations in our Volunteer Guide.

Ready to Apply?

Step 1. Start the application. Log in required.

Step 2. Fill out the required forms. Applicants must review and sign the following documents and include them in the application:

• Committee Confidentiality Agreement
• Conflict of Interest Policy

Election Timeline

• Jan. 15 through Feb. 7: Nomination and self-nomination period
• Feb. 7 through Mar. 1: The current AHA board reviews nominee submissions and selects a board candidate slate for AHA member voting
• Mar. 1 through Mar. 29: Member voting period (members must log in to vote)
• April 7: Election results announced
• June 16: New board seated. First meeting held at Homebrew Con, including participation from the exiting Founding Board. Board officers and committee chairs will be seated during this meeting.

FAQs / Additional Info:

Ready to help shape the future of homebrewing?

The post Board Nominations Now Open appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

2026 marks the NHC’s 48th year, proudly brought to you by the American Homebrewers Association and supported by the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP). Since 1979, more than 170,000 entries have been judged—each one a snapshot of the creativity, skill, and dedication that define homebrewing.

A New Era, Same Legendary Competition

Since the AHA went independent in July 2025, your new staff—along with volunteer member leaders on the AHA Founding Board and Events Committee—have been giddily working to make the 2026 NHC bigger, better, and bursting with homebrewing glory.

How the 2026 NHC Will Unfold

Here’s what you can expect:

• Nine First Round judging sites across the country
• First Round judging will take place in March and April 2026
• Advancing entries head to the Final Round in Asheville, NC, on June 17–18, 2026
• The awards ceremony and ultimate knock-out party happen on June 20, hosted during Homebrew Con

Put your beer, cider, and mead entries to the test, and get invaluable judge feedback.

Pro Tips for NHC Success

1. Review the 2025 Style Guidelines and choose the category that best fits your entry.
2. Registration will once again be hosted on the Beer Awards Platform (BAP).
3. The NHC is open to AHA members only. Join or renew the AHA today to get unmatched resources, recipes, and rewards—plus access to this legendary competition.

What’s Next?

Full details—including registration dates, shipping and drop-off deadlines, categories, prizes, volunteer opportunities, judging info, and Final Round hotel information—are coming in February.

Check back and join our newsletter for updates.

The post Get Ready for the 2026 National Homebrew Competition (NHC) appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

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Location: Asheville, North Carolina

Dates: June 19-20, 2026*

*Preceded by Final Round Judging of National Homebrew Competition on June 18

Homebrew Con is homebrewing’s best party on the planet, hosted by the American Homebrewers Association. 2026 will be the event’s 46th year.

Here’s a sneak peek at what’s on tap:

We’re bringing back Club Night, the Holy Grail of homebrew nights, Homebrew Expo with top suppliers and educators, HBC seminar sessions, and once again pairing the National Homebrew Competition (NHC) Final Round Judging and Awards Ceremony with the conference… And more!

Homebrew Con is about you, your fellow AHA members, and the community that makes our hobby of brewing and fermenting so amazing. We’re excited to see you there!

Stay tuned for registration dates, hotel info, and more

Get the latest updates via AHA emails and Zymurgy magazine.

See you in June!

The post Homebrew Con 2026 is Coming! appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

Happy November! As the weather cools and our fermenters warm up, we’re raising a glass to YOU—the members who power the American Homebrewers Association (AHA).

2025 has been a watershed year as we are now fully independent. With independence to become our own stand-alone nonprofit comes significant progress and even bigger plans.

✅ A Sample of Accomplishments Since our April Board Update

A Clear Vision for Growth

Did you catch the AHA’s new Strategic Plan, including our new vision?

✅ A homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community.

A Strong Start as an Independent Association

• We’re this close to announcing Homebrew Con 2026, scheduled for June 19–20 (with Final Round Judging of the National Homebrew Competition on June 18). We’ll share the U.S. location and venue once contracts are finalized. Keep an eye on your email!

We’ve Also…

• Built a new dedicated AHA team partnering with Strategic Association Management, with continued leadership from Julia Herz as AHA executive director and Amahl Turczyn as editor-in-chief of Zymurgy Magazine.
• Launched five volunteer committees with 30+ passionate volunteers to brew the AHA’s magic sauce.

Greater Opportunity as an Independent Nonprofit

• We’ve filed for both 501(c)(6) and 501(c)(3) status
  • Yeah, you read that right. We filed for both!
  • 501(c)(6) allows us to continue as a dedicated ‘membership’ organization.
  • 501(c)(3) will expand our ‘public’ focused work to promote homebrewing to the masses as a culturally significant hobby—plus it opens the doors to grants and donations.
  • The IRS approval is underway. Anticipate updates in 2026 as the process takes many months.

Community & Celebration

This Year, we Proudly:

• Hosted the 47th National Homebrew Competition (NHC), driven by seven first-round sites with the Kansas City Bier Meisters homebrew club expertly hosting final-round judging.🙌
• Continue to publish medal-validated recipes from the NHC (an exclusive for members). See 2025’s gold medal winners in the latest issue of Zymurgy, the world’s only print magazine dedicated to homebrewers.
• Published a call for a new leadership position: NHC competition chair.
  • Wanna be the face of the world’s largest homebrew competition? Check out the volunteer chair description here (applications due November 10).
• Offered members access to presale and discount tickets to the Great American Beer Festival, once again. And the AHA exhibited at the fest.
• Launched the new AHA Happy Hour organized by the Community & Education Committee. October featured a Q&A with John Palmer!
• Increased homebrewing’s visibility with coast-to-coast keynote presentations from Julia Herz, including to Brülosophy, the Colorado Homebrewers Conference, and from AHA board member Drew Beechum to the Foam Ranger’s Dixie Cup Competition.
• Fielded numerous media interviews. Check out this Denver Post article ‘Homebrewing is Poised for a Resurgence’.

🔥 What’s Simmering Next

Here’s what’s brewing for 2026:

• AHA Board Elections in Q1
• 2026 NHC entry info + first-round locations (January)
• AHA’s Annual Homebrew Holidays: Big Brew (May), Home Fermentation Day (August), and Learn to Homebrew Day (November)
• Publication of AHA Advocacy Statements starting with legalization of homebrew shipping to competitions (coming soon)
• Meetings with global homebrewing organizations and suppliers. Wanna schedule a call? Email Julia at ed@homebrewersassociation.org.
• Publish a policy on artificial intelligence (AI) and member/AHA usage
• And much, much more

💡 Better Benefits Ahead

We’re investing in member service upgrades:

• New website search and virtual brewing assistant (member exclusive!)
• Evolving AHA Member Deals + Club and Shop directories—the most extensive listings in the world for homebrewers
• Saved recipe access—email info@homebrewersassociation.org to retrieve your previously saved recipes (relevant only for members who used this before July 2025).

Your patience fuels progress—thank you for giving us time to tackle all the above.

🎉 Stay Involved—Your Community Awaits

Explore & participate:

• April 2025 Board Update
• AHA Forum—connect, ask questions, and get answers on one of the web’s longest-existing online homebrewing communities
• Tag AHA @homebrewassoc on Facebook and Instagram and follow us along with 200K+ others!
• Volunteer roles that shape the movement. We look to seat more committee members in December.
• Request a speaker presentation from the AHA

And don’t miss:

📺 Special Zymurgy Live on November 5

This special Zym Live is open to everyone—it’s usually a member-only exclusive! Hear directly from your founding board (us) about the future. Join live or catch the recording.

🍺 The AHA Exists for You—and Because of You

You make this all possible. Thank YOU. More members will bring more advocacy, resources, innovation, community, and more homebrewing. 👉 Join or renew today, and invite another brewer to do the same. Together, we’ll ensure homebrewing thrives for generations.

Your AHA team is honored to continue delivering unmatched reasons (Zymurgy Magazine), recipes (NHC validated), resources (HomebrewersAssociation.org), and rewards (AHA Member Deals, Annual Recognition Awards, and National Homebrew Competition Awards).

The AHA Founding Board

The post American Homebrewers Association Independence and Momentum Update appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

The post November/December 2025 Zymurgy Magazine Now Available appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

Summary

Volunteer Chair Position, December 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026

The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) is seeking a volunteer National Homebrew Competition (NHC) competition chair to lead the world’s largest and most respected homebrewing competition. Duration of the post will be December 1, 2025—July 31, 2026.

This is a high-visibility volunteer leadership role. It is ideal for a passionate community leader who wants to influence the future of homebrewing and positively impact thousands of AHA members and volunteers.

The competition chair will receive a stipend to defray travel expenses and global recognition for their service as the face of NHC awards and judging.

Why This Role Matters

The NHC recognizes the pinnacle of brewing achievement, honoring the very best homebrewed beer, mead, and cider worldwide. The NHC competition chair ensures that the competition reflects the AHA’s mission to inspire, educate, and celebrate homebrewers and stewards the world’s top competition.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead NHC judging, entries, winner analysis, medals, and prize selection
• Serve as the primary point of contact for entrants, judges, and organizers
• Build and inspire a diverse network of competition volunteer leaders and Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) judges, and has the option to seat a deputy chair to support
• Author, update, and communicate rules, categories, and deadlines
• Partner with AHA staff on logistics, entrant and judging technology platforms, and promotion
• Champion diversity by recruiting and supporting women and BIPOC judges
• Represent the NHC at Homebrew Con 2026, including announcing winners on the main stage
• Sit on the AHA Events Committee, with this group serving as a sounding board and supporting the team on NHC success
• Lead as the AHA’s liaison to the Beer Awards Platform (BAP) NHC’s competition software for judging

Key Milestone Responsibilities by Month

• December: Secure first-round sites, publish the competition schedule, and establish initial competition deadlines
• December to January: Secure NHC prizes for medal winners
• January: Open registration and begin judge recruiting
• February to March: Regularly communicate competition details to entrants and judges
• March to April: Conduct first-round judging at 7 to 9 locations in the U.S.
• June: Conduct final-round judging and announce awards at Homebrew Con
• June to July: Disburse medals, allocate prizes, complete entrant communications, and conduct post-event analysis.

Competition Chair Participation Details

• Classification: Volunteer
• Title: NHC Competition Chair
• Travel Stipend: Compensation for travel to two first-round location visits and to Homebrew Con for attendance at the NHC Awards Ceremony in June or July 2026

About the American Homebrewers Association (AHA)

The AHA, founded in 1978, is built and directed by members while we deliver unmatched reasons (Zymurgy Magazine), recipes (NHC validated), resources (HomebrewersAssociation.org), and rewards (AHA Member Deals, Annual Recognition Awards, and National Homebrew Competition Awards). The association serves a community of 20,000 members, and connects and celebrates homebrewers worldwide. Our vision is simple yet powerful: A homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community. Join us.

About the National Homebrew Competition (NHC)

Founded in 1979 with just 34 entries, the NHC is now the largest homebrew competition in the world, honoring world-class beer, mead, and cider created by homebrewers everywhere. Since 2025, close to 170,000 entries have been evaluated annually, gathering beer’s best homebrewers, fermenters, top beer judges, stewards, and volunteer competition leaders.

The post Applications Open for National Homebrew Competition Competition Chair appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

We also tapped some MAJOR new talent devoted to Zymurgy with Amahl Turczyn continuing as Zymurgy editor-in-chief, Adriana Torres staying with us as copyeditor, and bringing back Dave Harford as art director.

Overseen by the AHA’s founding board the above group, with me as your fearless, fermenting executive director, we are actively making moves to guide your newly independent organization to a better, member-driven future. These include:

• The return of Homebrew Con in 2026;
• Expanding educational programs and resources—Stay tuned!
• Growing volunteer leadership and committees; and
• Planning for the AHA’s 50th Anniversary in 2028.

What is an AMC, you might ask, and why do we need one? AMCs provide professional, best-practice, accredited support for thousands of associations. Simply put, SAM will help serve you as one of our 20,000 members more efficiently than we could achieve on our own, plus give us room to pursue the big, lofty, hell-yeah kinda goals on behalf of homebrewing.

Background: In 2024, we underwent a deliberate and thorough transition process to become independent of the Brewers Association (BA), after considered all options for a brighter and impact-driven AHA future. After all, the AHA has been in existence since 1978 but has only, in one form  or another, been affiliated with the BA since 1982.  With independence, I’ll say it again and again, we have BIG work ahead to evolve and be successful as a stand-alone nonprofit. The hobby of homebrewing also faces real challenges. But with your help, we can and will address them.

Julia Herz is executive director of the American Homebrewers Association. You can follow Julia’s homebrew talks and travels on Instagram @ImmaculateFermentation.

The post Your Independent AHA Is Making Moves! Welcome NEW Team AHA appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

Submit a photo and short description by Friday, November 7, and your creation could be featured in the Jan/Feb 2026 Gadgets issue! Membership required.

Not a member? Join the AHA and share your invention with us.

The post Call for Gadgets: Submit Your Brewing Inventions by Nov. 7! appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

In the article, published October 10, Julia shares her lifelong love of brewing, the new AHA vision—a homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community—and why she believes homebrewing is “poised for another resurgence.”

Homebrewing, she explains, is more than just beer—it’s a connection to the community, agriculture, and each other.

“Homebrewing connects you not only to the process but to the community,” Julia said. “Whether you brew with people or not, you’re almost always going to share it.”

It’s this spirit of creativity, sharing, and connection that fuels the AHA’s mission as an independent nonprofit dedicated to celebrating the art, science, and joy of fermentation and championing a united and knowledgeable community of today and tomorrow’s homebrewers.

Read the full feature in the Denver Post (subscription may be required). To learn more about the AHA’s mission or how to become a member, visit our membership page, where you’ll gain access to unmatched benefits, including validated recipes, expert resources, and more.

Photo credit: Cliff Grassmick / Denver Post

The post Denver Post Spotlights Homebrewing’s Renaissance and AHA’s Role in Leading It appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

Hello, Planet Homebrewing! We homebrewers are a special group. We have a knack for irreverence. We don’t like being pigeonholed. We don’t like being thought of as one-size-fits-all, and we don’t subscribe to predefined rules. Am I right?

For individuals who choose to practice this hobby we are so passionate about, it’s an exciting time for the American Homebrewers Association (AHA). We’re charting a new course to represent, support, and fuel homebrewing. On June 27, 2025, your new AHA Founding Board of Directors (see Zymurgy March/April 2025) announced the new AHA 2025 Strategic Plan. This plan directly relates to the AHA becoming an independent organization no longer managed by, or existing under, the 501(c)(6) Brewers Association.

Elements of the strategic plan came together over the last few months, following multiple meetings with your AHA Board, the AHA Strategic Planning Task Force—chaired by Shawna Cormier with vice-chair Drew Beechum, Cody Matkin, Paulina van Eeden Hill, and myself representing AHA staff. The group accounted for member input on AHA’s proposed vision collected in February 2025, too. Best practices and grounding concepts were kept in mind as we finalized the 2025 plan.

What is Strategic Planning?

• Defining an organization’s priorities and allocating people, technology, and other resources to achieve its vision and goals.
• Evaluating the organization’s vision and mission and determining the best ways to achieve them by establishing defined priorities with metrics.

Why Create a Strategic Plan?

• Organizations guided by strategy have long-term goals that describe the desired end-state of impact they aim to create for their members and the public.
• A strategic plan acts as a communication device that functions like a GPS, providing guidance.
• Plans live and breathe. Strategy merits ongoing reference, regular review, and adjustment to keep pace with change.

Members should be aware of the organization’s vision, priorities, and goals. Staff and volunteers need to know the big picture of what they are trying to accomplish.

Definitions:

• Vision – Where we want to go and what the world will look like based on our impact, commitment, and staff and volunteer performance.
• Mission – Why the AHA exists and what we intend to do.
• Purpose – Declares an organization’s intention to act consistently with its nonprofit, tax-exempt status. Appears in the bylaws and/or articles of incorporation.
• Strategic Priorities – Measurable goals guiding resource allocation and the direction of the organization.
• Targets – Quantifiable benchmarks to reach to meet goals.
• Values – Commonly held beliefs that shape an organization. Critical to trust, ethics, beliefs, and attitudes within the organization and the community it creates.

We hope you share our enthusiasm for the opportunities our new independence brings. It’s essential to acknowledge that future AHA volunteer leaders will build on the historic changes made in 2025. In 2026, we will conduct AHA Board of Director elections to build upon the work of your new founding board. Board candidates will benefit from being on an AHA committee first. So throw your hat in the ring to be a committee volunteer.

Julia Herz is executive director of the American Homebrewers Association. You can follow Julia’s homebrew talks and travels on Instagram @ImmaculateFermentation.

2025 STRATEGIC PLAN

Strategic Priorities

1. Organizational Strength and Health
   • Business: Stabilize finances, produce a valid 3-year plan, and transition staff as needed.
   • Operations: Hire an Association Management Company (AMC) to carry out day-to-day AHA operations.
   • Governance: Create the path to independence.
   • Planning: Craft the future of the AHA as a force to positively influence homebrewing generations to come.
2. Knowledge and Learning
   • Education: Continue 2025 services and benefits.
   • Events: Bring back HomebrewCon in summer of 2026.
   • Volunteerism & Leadership Development: AHA’s future relies on establishing a thriving volunteer community that takes an active role in fueling its organization.
3. Community, Collaboration, and Competition
   • Community: Engage with our membership community.
   • Collaboration: Catapult homebrewing by positioning the AHA as a national homebrew club, served and fueled by club officers.
   • Competition: Execute prep for 2026’s National Homebrew Competition (NHC).

Read our full strategic plan and learn more about our mission and vision.

AHA’s Mission

“We celebrate and promote the art, science, and joy of fermentation, championing a united and knowledgeable community of today’s and tomorrow’s homebrewers.”

AHA’s Vision

“A homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community.”

AHA’s Values

• Community – We cultivate an inclusive, collaborative hobby welcoming all. Homebrewing thrives when it is shared and enjoyed together.
• Education – We inspire curiosity and confidence with unsurpassed resources so homebrewers can grow, innovate, and experiment.
• Joy – Brewing is more than a hobby, it’s a source of joy, creativity, and connection. We celebrate the moments that make homebrewing unforgettable.
• Volunteerism – Driven by our community and powered by passion, the AHA is shaped by homebrewers who guide everything we do.

2025 Committee Charges

The following committees have been established by the AHA Board of Directors:

• Clubs – Strengthen and support AHA-sanctioned homebrew clubs by fostering leadership development, sharing best practices, and cultivating a thriving network of local communities.
• Community & Education – Advance the AHA’s role as a catalyst for learning and connection within the homebrewing community.
• Events – Shape the vision and execution of in-person events that bring the AHA mission to life.
• Finance – Safeguard the fiscal health and sustainability of the AHA.
• Governance – Promote organizational excellence through sound governance practices.

The post Director’s Cut: The AHA’s Vision appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

This year’s celebration happens Saturday, November 1, 2025, and the American Homebrewers Association® (AHA) has two official recipes to inspire your brew day:

• Let’s Lager Down to the Ozdust Ballroom (Vienna Lager): A traditional Vienna lager recipe from AHA member Tyler Miller, 2025 National Homebrew Competition Samuel Adams Ninkasi Winner, and member of the Arizona Society of Homebrewers (2025 NHC Homebrew Club of the Year). This recipe layers a variety of malts for a rich, complex depth of flavor.
• Ruddles Best Bitter: A classic English ale from Alan Dunn, Ruddles Brewery Limited, UK. Selected by AHA co-founder Charlie Papazian when asked by AHA executive director Julia Herz which recipe to feature in 2025. Originally published in Papazian’s 1997 book Homebrewer’s Gold, this brilliant orange-amber ale balances Kent Goldings hops with caramel malt for a smooth, highly drinkable session beer. Bonus: it’s an extract recipe with steeping grains, approachable for both beginners and seasoned brewers.

Whether you’re brewing for the first time or the hundredth, Learn to Homebrew Day is the perfect chance to fire up the kettle, explore new styles, and connect with the homebrewing community.

The AHA makes it easy to get started:

• Recipe library with beer, mead, cider, and clone recipes
• Homebrewing video tutorials with Julia Herz
• Homebrew Club Locator to connect with brewers near you
• Homebrew Supply Shop Directory to find ingredients and equipment
• AHA Forum to share tips, ask questions, and learn from fellow brewers

Grab a recipe, gather your ingredients, and join your fellow homebrewers on November 1 to celebrate the joy of making beer at home.

The post Celebrate Learn to Homebrew Day—November 1, 2025 appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

 Boil 60 minutes. Add flavor hops at 20 minutes. Add Irish moss at 10 minutes. After a total wort boil of 60 minutes, turn off the heat, and rack clear wort into a sanitized fermenter to which 2 gallons (7.6 L) of cold water have been added. If necessary, add additional cold water to achieve a 5-gallon (19-L) batch size. Chill the wort to 70°F (21°C). Aerate and add an active yeast starter. Ferment for 4 to 6 days in primary. Then transfer into a secondary fermenter, and chill to 60°F (15.5°C). When secondary aging is complete, prime with sugar, and bottle or keg. Let condition at temperatures above 60°F (15.5°C) until clear and carbonated.

The post Ruddles Best Bitter (Learn to Homebrew 2025 Official Recipe) appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

The post September/October 2025 Zymurgy Magazine Now Available appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

Austin, TX — The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) is proud to announce a major milestone in its new chapter as an independent nonprofit: the selection of Strategic Association Management (SAM) as its Association Management Company (AMC). SAM, an accredited AMC based in Austin, Texas, officially began overseeing AHA’s day-to-day operations in July and is devoted to empowering mission-driven organizations to grow with purpose.

Behind the scenes, AHA now has a new team supporting members and the founding board to help to implement strategic priorities set earlier this year. These include strengthening the organization’s operational health, expanding educational programming, growing AHA’s volunteer leadership and committees, and positioning the AHA for a bright future for generations to come.

The transition comes after the AHA became independent from the Brewers Association, its former parent organization, in January 2025. AHA incorporated in Colorado, seated a founding board of directors, and initiated its application for 501(c) nonprofit status—all foundational moves devoted to serving homebrewers.

“Our board has hit the ground running,” said Shawna Cormier, AHA Founding Board Chair. “This is more than a transition—it’s a movement. We’re creating a stronger, more inclusive AHA rooted in collaboration, fun, and volunteer leadership.”

“The hobby of homebrewing faces real challenges,” added Julia Herz, Executive Director. “As the national voice since 1978, we’re stepping up. Independence gives the AHA freedom and focus to grow, and SAM is the perfect AMC to help. The partnership ensures that the AHA has the operational support needed to build on its legacy, serve members, and continue fostering a thriving homebrewing community.”

In 2025, AHA’s founding board and SAM are actively implementing a bold strategic plan, including:

• The return of Homebrew Con in 2026
• Expanding educational programs and resources
• Growing volunteer leadership and committees
• Planning for the AHA’s 50th Anniversary in 2028

###

About the American Homebrewers Association®

Founded in 1978, the American Homebrewers Association® (AHA) is the world’s leading organization for people who brew and ferment at home. The AHA provides unmatched reasons, recipes (validated), resources, and rewards for fermentation enthusiasts. Signature events include the Homebrew Con, National Homebrew Competition, Big Brew for National Homebrew Day, and Learn to Homebrew Day. The AHA also publishes Zymurgy®, the longest-running magazine dedicated to homebrewers.

AHA’s Vision: A homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community.

AHA’s Mission: To celebrate and promote the art, science, and joy of fermentation, championing a united and knowledgeable community of today and tomorrow’s homebrewers.

The AHA is a member-driven organization. Learn more at HomebrewersAssociation.org and view AHA’s 2025 Strategic Plan.

Media Contact:

For the AHA:

Julia Herz, Executive Director

American Homebrewers Association

ed@homebrewersassociation.org

For SAM:

Katy McDowall, Senior Communications Manager

Strategic Association Management

marketing@sam-firm.com

The post AHA Selects Strategic Association Management as Association Management Partner appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

Check out our DIY recipes, tutorials, and more and celebrate Home Fermentation Day with us!

The post Celebrate Home Fermentation Day appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

By Dr. Julia Skinner

By following a few easy steps, you can ferment all kinds of vegetables at home, producing an array of tasty pickles that will stay crisp jarred up in your fridge for several days to several weeks. The art of lacto-fermentation originally came about, even before the advent of refrigeration, as a way to preserve the summer and fall vegetable harvest for consumption later in the year. But today, with cold storage, your tart, spicy, briny creations can last even longer, and they’re easy to prepare.

A Few Fermenting Tips

• For lacto-fermentation, use an unrefined salt (e.g., sea salt or Himalayan salt) with minerals intact—this can give it a pink or gray color. If using refined salt, look for options like kosher or sea salt that are free of anti-caking agents and other additives.
• For ferments using honey, choose high-quality honey, preferably from a local beekeeper. Generic grocery store honey often contains corn syrup, caramel coloring, and other additives that can affect flavor and fermentation.
• Place fermenting foods on a tray or in a container to catch overflow and prevent countertop stains. Fermentation produces gas bubbles that can force liquid out of your fermenter.
• “Burp” your ferments once a day (or every couple days if it’s cold): gently loosen the lid to allow excess gas that has built up during the fermentation process to escape. Top off with more brine if needed.
• Keep all fermenting ingredients submerged in brine to inhibit mold growth and keep out unwanted microbes. A lid works for small jars; larger ferments can be weighed down with a sanitized stone on a clean plate.
• Good bacteria are naturally present on all your substrates (fruits and vegetables). That’s why it’s important to use at least 50% fresh, raw vegetables to provide the bacteria needed for fermentation.
• Once your ferments reach the flavor you like, refrigerate them to slow the fermentation process to a near standstill, allowing you to enjoy them over time.

Avoid canning sauerkraut and other living foods, as the heat kills beneficial microbes. If you do want to can finished kraut, follow guidance from the Ball Blue Book or another trusted source.

Brine

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) naturally present on vegetables can tolerate a brine solution with 1.5–5% salt, but 2–3% is ideal for flavor in most vegetable ferments. This is a great range to experiment with and find what you like.

For sauerkraut, you can estimate salt by eye, but if you’re just getting started, measuring can help build confidence. Don’t worry—there’s wiggle room! Vegetables like cabbage release their own liquid when salted, so you may not need to add additional brine. It takes some kneading to get the liquid flowing. On average, half a head of cabbage yields 1½ to 2 cups of brine. Based on the ratios below, that would call for roughly ½ tablespoon of salt, depending on cabbage size.

The science behind fermentation allows some room for variation, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different salt ratios. If you are unable to knead the cabbage to produce brine, you can use the pour-over brine ratios listed below.

Pour-over Brine

Pour-over brines can be used to ferment all kinds of fruits and veggies, such as carrot sticks, cucumbers, and more.

For 1 quart (or 4 cups) of water:

• 2% = 20 g or about 1 tablespoon
• 3.5% = 35 g or about 2 tablespoons
• 5% = 50 g or 2 ½ – 3 tablespoons

Pickled Carrots

1. Cut your carrots into sticks or rounds.
2. Add to a pint jar, leaving 1″ or more of headspace at the top.
3. Pour your room-temperature brine (using salt ratios above) over the carrots to cover completely. Add any optional spices—for example, 1–2 tablespoons dill seeds or fresh dill, 1 clove garlic, and ¼–½ teaspoon crushed red pepper.
4. Top the jar snugly (but don’t tighten) with a lid and place it on a plate or tray, out of direct sunlight but at room temperature. You can use a standard Mason jar lid or an airlock.
5. “Burp” the jar daily: If carrots or spices float to the surface, press them down (or use a fermentation weight), or gently shake the jar once a day to disrupt the surface and discourage mold growth. If mold does appear, carefully remove it with a clean paper towel. The salt solution should prevent most harmful types.
6. Allow to ferment for several days or longer, until the carrots have a flavor you enjoy. Follow your nose! A tart, pickle-like aroma indicates lactic fermentation. If the jar smells foul or rotten at any point, discard it. Once your desired tartness is reached, seal the jar tightly and store it in the fridge.

Sauerkraut

Ingredients:

• 1 head cabbage
• 1-2 Tbs. salt
• Spices (e.g., caraway, fennel, juniper berries), if desired
• Pint jars with lids and bands

1. Remove the outer two layers of leaves from your cabbage and set aside.
2. Quarter and core your cabbage, then thinly shred the leaves.
3. Add cabbage to a bowl and sprinkle liberally with salt.
4. Massage the salt into the cabbage until it begins to release liquid and form a brine. You’ll know it’s ready when the cabbage releases liquid when squeezed. (If making dill pickle kraut, see recipe below.)
5. Pack the cabbage tightly into jars, pressing down to eliminate air bubbles. Make sure it’s fully submerged in its own brine. If needed, top off with pour-over brine (see above).
6. For a simple weight, fold one of the reserved cabbage leaves and place it over the shredded cabbage and press it down. You can also use a sanitized round stone or a fermentation weight. Be sure the top leaf is fully submerged in brine.
7. Place a lid snugly (don’t tighten) on the jar and set on a baking sheet or plate to collect any overflow. Allow to ferment out of direct sunlight for 2-3 weeks (or longer, if desired). Loosen the the lid and check your ferment every couple days, adding more brine if needed (about 1 tsp to 2 cups water).
8. Loosen the lid and check your ferment every couple of days. Add more brine if needed—use about 1 teaspoon salt dissolved in 2 cups water.

Dill Pickle Kraut

After massaging the salt into the cabbage, mix in the following ingredients to taste before packing into jars:

• Fresh dill
• Dill seed
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Prepared horseradish (the pickled kind, not creamy horseradish sauce)
• Minced garlic

This is a great opportunity to play with flavor and ratios. A common starting point is ½ to 1 tablespoon of each spice per head of cabbage, but feel free to adjust amounts or try other ingredients like black pepper or onion.

Kraut-chi

This method for making kraut-chi is similar to traditional sauerkraut: massage your vegetables with salt to draw out their juices and create a natural brine.

The term “kraut-chi” was coined by fermentation expert Sandor Katz to describe common sauerkraut variations made with a mix of vegetables—not just cabbage. Kraut-chi is a flexible way to preserve what you have on hand, such as grated root vegetables, hearty greens, or seasonal produce like corn.

A recent batch included grated beet, carrot, onion, foraged greens, ginger, purple cabbage, apple, and celery—most of which were nearing the end of their shelf life. Kraut-chi is an excellent way to use up vegetables that are softening (but not moldy). Visual perfection isn’t required—flavor and creativity take the lead!

You can also add kitchen scraps such as shredded or chopped carrot ends, carrot tops, chopped apple peels, or bits of grated root vegetables like beets or parsnips—or whatever else your imagination comes up with. Scraps that are especially delicate, like peaches or berries, should be added after salting the cabbage, but before packing it into jars. Avoid delicate greens such as lettuce, which tend to become slimy in this recipe.

If kneading is difficult due to arthritis or other physical limitations, you can simply grate or shred the vegetables and ferment them using a pour-over brine instead. For vegetables that don’t hold their shape well during massaging—such as fresh corn—add them after kneading and mix to distribute evenly.

Dr. Julia Skinner, one of the world’s leading fermentation educators, is the author of the award-winning Our Fermented Lives, is founder of The Culinary Curiosity School, and runs Root, a food-focused community and consulting organization that offers classes, consulting on creative projects, a weekly newsletter, and more. She also founded Roots and Branches, where she coaches writers to find their voice and share their work.

A nature lover, teacher, and traveler, Julia holds a PhD in Library and Information Science and splits her time between Atlanta and Cork, Ireland.

The post A Primer on Lactic-Fermented Vegetables appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

Now that we’re back up and running, read on for steps to access the Forum through your AHA member account.

AHA Members: If you’re logging in to the AHA website for the first time since the new member portal was launched on July 7, make sure to reset your password first. Then, follow these steps below:

1. On the AHA website, select “Forum” in the top menu bar. That will redirect you to the Forum homepage.
2. From there, click on the green “Log-in / Sign Up” button in the upper right.
3. This next step is important: Use the white “Log in With Your AHA Member Profile” button on the right side of the screen. This will log you in with your existing AHA member portal log-in information and connect you to your existing Forum account.
4. Now you’re set and we look forward to engaging with you on the Forum! 

Not a member? Log in to your existing Forum account or create a new account.

Contact the AHA Team

Got questions not answered here? Let us know via email at info@homebrewersassociation.org or phone at 303-749-5459.

The post The AHA Forum is Back appeared first on American Homebrewers Association.

This is more than just a system upgrade—it’s part of a historic shift in the AHA’s journey, toward independence and innovation. Thanks to your support, we’re brewing up a stronger, more responsive association that puts homebrewers first.

Member Takeaways

• Independence = More Innovation. New funding paths (grants/donations) and tailored benefits.
• Your Voice Matters. Members now have direct representation via the new Founding Board of Directors and the invitation to participate in AHA’s newly formed committees.
• Benefits Stay the Same in 2025—with improvements to come based on your feedback.
• National Homebrewer Representation. This is needed now more than ever. 

Looking for the AHA to do more? We’re updating our ingredients as an association, and things will need time to ferment and condition before you feel big changes as members. Thank YOU for being part of this historic and unfolding journey and for helping bring AHA into a new future.

How to Get Started in the New Portal

Step 1: Reset Your Password

Before logging in for the first time, you’ll need to reset your password.

Step 2: Review Your Profile and Preferences

Once you’re logged in, check that your personal information is up to date and adjust your communication preferences if needed.

We’ve pre-filled your profile with what we have on file. You can make updates by clicking the “My Profile” button on the member homepage.

Step 3: Enjoy Your Benefits

With your account set up, you can:

• Download your membership card.
• Access exclusive perks like Zymurgy Magazine and Award-Winning Recipes by clicking “Back to Main Site” at the top of the portal.

What’s New?

We’re making it even easier to stay connected. From now on, all AHA emails will come from info@homebrewersassociation.org. That’s also your go-to email address if you ever need assistance.

Prefer to talk to a human? You can reach us at 303-749-5459 (we stand ready to help and answer the phone during business hours).

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