Homebrew Summer: Helles Bells

Though he’s worked at a high level within the brewing industry for over a dozen years, Peter Perrecone still fondly remembers what it was like to be a homebrewer. As such, he relishes the opportunity to create moments for local amateurs through San Diego Beer News‘ Homebrew Summer program, and has helped recreate several recreationally developed beer recipes on commercial systems. This time around, he selected a recipe for a traditional German-style lager, Helles Bells, which was the handiwork of homebrewer Anthony Incrocci. That beer is being added to the tap list at Perrecone’s stomping grounds, The Roadies Brewing in Vista, but not before we share the recipe in all-grain and extract formats for anyone out there that would like to recreate it at home.

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!

Peter Perrecone
Head Brewer, The Roadies Brewing

I chose this recipe because a helles lager is something we have talked about brewing here. That made it a good fit for us. I didn’t have to change very much about the recipe, except for switching out certain ingredients for the brands that we use in-house. My best tip for home brewers attempting this recipe is to pay close attention to temperature control and achieving the right water profile. 

Anthony Incrocci
Homebrewer

I really enjoyed brewing at The Roadies. It was a great experience working with the team, and I appreciated the attention to detail and passion everyone brought to the brew day. Seeing the recipe come to life on a professional system made the experience especially rewarding. For anyone brewing this beer at home, my biggest advice is to be patient and focus on the fundamentals. Helles is a delicate style that doesn’t leave much room to hide flaws, so pay close attention to water chemistry, fermentation temperature and yeast health. A strong pitch of healthy yeast, good oxygenation, and a clean, steady fermentation will go a long way. Most importantly, give the beer plenty of time to lager ‒ it’s amazing how much the flavor and smoothness improve with patience. If you take your time and don’t rush the process, you’ll be rewarded with a crisp, clean and highly drinkable lager.

The Roadies Brewing is located at 1495 Poinsettia Avenue, #148 in Vista