By: Kelsie Weekes
Beer lovers know that it can be difficult to find a perfect tasting brew. That is why more and more people are taking up home brewing, where they can create their own beer to suit their taste buds.
Dr. Phil Moore has been making his own beer for over thirty years. It began as a way to make a few bucks in college, but has since turned into a time-consuming hobby and passion. He is not surprised that more people are turning to home brewing.
"You learn to make good beer that's nontraditional and you get excited about it, and other people get excited about it, so they open a brewery from it," Moore says.
Moore's garage is his microbrewery, and he has even created a name for his beers: Moondance Magic Brews. He has won numerous awards for his beers in competitions around the country.
Bet-Mar Liquid Hobby Shop in Columbia sells equipment and ingredients for home brewers. Owner Mark Burris says he's seen a steady increase in new customers. He also says people are taking up the hobby for different reasons.
"People don't want to buy junk. People are wanting to buy things that are going to last them awhile," Burris explains. "And people like to do things themselves. The idea that I can go home and do this myself is kind of a neat idea."
Restaurants that sell the beer made by smaller brewers are cashing in as well. Flying Saucer in the Vista sells over 200 craft beers. General Manager Chris Mickel says he has seen a huge jump in sales.
"I'm about 25% over last year sales wise," Mickel says. "Volume of business has increased and the want from our customers, the want for good beer, and different good beer is definitely increasing."
A Brewers Association study found that in the first half of this year, overall beer sales are down, but sales of craft beer have increased by 12 percent.
If beer fanatics can't find that quality beer they are looking for in a bar or restaurant, then there is always their home. Moore says his favorite part about home brewing is creating a beer solely for him.
"I think everybody wants to brew that…some call it a "session beer" or "your best friend" whatever," Moore says. "Just that beer that perfect for you. Other people might not like it. It might not fit their beer style, but it's perfect for you."
If you are interested in making your own beer, you can visit the Homebrewers Association web site to get started.
Dr. Phil Moore has turned his garage into a small microbrewery.
