Homebrew Summer: Uncommon CA Common
Without knowing who was responsible for it, San Diego Brewing Co.'s head brewer selects a recipe from someone he was thrilled to work with
Each year, when we present professional brewers with beer recipes submitted by local amateurs as part of our Homebrew Summer program, we do so without attribution. A blind selection process allows brewers to choose recipes based purely on their merit or appeal versus who came up with them. When we told San Diego Brewing Co. (SDBC) Head Brewer Chris Hotz who was responsible for the rye-bolstered riff on a California common he had selected, he was overjoyed to learn it was Bob Mac Kay, a homebrewer of many years who he both liked and respected. Together they enjoyed one of the most pleasant collaboration brew days in history, resulting in Uncommon CA Common, which will hit SDBC’;’s taps today. Ready yourself for that piquant pro-am creation by looking over the recipe, which is available for download (in all-grain or extract format) below.
This is one of over 20 beers we’ll be sharing recipes for throughout the summer, so be sure to check back with us often. Or, if you prefer, you can sign up for our email newsletter, and we’ll send all of the recipes directly to your inbox. Cheers to homebrewing and another fun Homebrew Summer!
Chris Hotz
Head Brewer, San Diego Brewing Co.
This recipe stood out to me because of its simplicity. During my time as an R&D Brewer at Ballast Point Brewing, I had brewed a rye California common and loved the outcome. This recipe was simple and direct, which is how I design recipes. And as a beer judge that has judged the rye-beer category, it is always fun to taste rye beers that are not IPAs. The California common is a great canvas to allow rye to shine.
Bob Mac Kay
Homebrewer
I’m a big fan of adding malted rye to beer recipes. It brings out a pleasant spiciness and adds character and complexity to the underlying grain contributions. I’ve used this recently in multiple styles, but since this is a clean lager the spiciness shines through even more. Spice is nice! I really had a great experience brewing with Chis and [SDBC Brewer] Matt Navarre. Their knowledge, expertise and friendly, easy-going, yet detail-oriented methodology made for a fun and informative brew day. I was also very appreciative that several members of my homebrew club, QUAFF, were in attendance for much of the brewing process. We shared brewing stories and camaraderie over some of Chris’ and Matt’s fine SDBC beers!
San Diego Brewing Co. is located at 10450 Friars Road in Mission Valley