When it comes to brewing techniques, innovation and creativity are key. Jaron Anderson, the mastermind behind Helper Beer, believes in listening to the beer itself rather than sticking to rigid rules. His unconventional approach paid off when he clinched the prestigious GABF gold in the German-style pils category in 2025. Anderson's winning pils was crafted using techniques that some might consider unorthodox, but for him, the end goal is always to create exceptional beer.
Anderson's philosophy revolves around pushing the boundaries and exploring new methods to enhance the flavor profile of his brews. He doesn't shy away from experimenting with different ingredients and processes if it means achieving the desired taste. For him, the beer is the ultimate guide, and he is willing to go to great lengths to perfect it.
In a recent episode, Anderson delved into various aspects of brewing, from stripping adjuncts out of light lagers to utilizing long boil times to drive off unwanted compounds. He shared insights on creating characterful helles and pils without traditional decoction methods and the significance of using hard local water to impart structure to malt.
One of the key takeaways from Anderson's approach is his emphasis on building character in lagers using a combination of domestic and European malts. He also shed light on the intricate process of hop selection in German-style pils and the unique challenges of brewing with the Andechs strain.
Amidst Anderson's innovative brewing techniques, equipment plays a crucial role in achieving consistency and quality. G&D's Elite 290 Micro-series, designed for sustainability and performance, offers brewers a reliable solution with features like natural refrigerants and variable speed fans for efficiency.
On the yeast front, Berkeley Yeast introduced Dry Tropics London, a dry yeast version of their popular liquid strain. Dry Tropics London promises the same soft mouthfeel and juicy character of a top-tier London Ale strain, with added notes of grapefruit and passion fruit. This innovative yeast option allows brewers to experiment with different flavor profiles without breaking the bank.
When it comes to packaging, PakTech stands out as a trusted provider of craft-beer multipacking solutions. Their handles, made from 100 percent recycled plastic, offer breweries a sustainable option for packaging their products. With a focus on durability and design, PakTech's carriers help brands elevate their packaging while adhering to eco-friendly practices.
Overall, the world of brewing continues to evolve, with brewers like Jaron Anderson leading the way with their creative techniques and unwavering commitment to quality. As the industry embraces innovation and sustainability, it's clear that the future of beer brewing is in good hands.