The Theory and Practice of Brewing

The difference that appears in the several processes of brewing, though executed with the same materials, by the same persons, and to the same intent, is generally acknowledged. The uneasiness this must occasion to those who are charged with the directive part of the business, cannot be small: and the more desirous they are of well executing the duty incumbent on them, the greater is their disappointment, when frustrated in their hopes. To remove this uncertainty, no method seems preferable to that of experiments, as it is by this means alone, any art whatever can be established upon a solid foundation: but these require caution, perseverance, and expence; they must be multiplied and varied both for the same and for different purposes. The operations of nature elude superficial enquiries, where we have few or no principles for our guides, many experiments are made, which tend only to confound or deceive. Effects seen, without a sufficient knowledge of their causes, often are neglected, or viewed in an improper light, seldom faithfully reported, and, for want of distinguishing the several circumstancesx that attend them, many times become the support of old prejudices, or the foundation of new ones. Whoever is attentive to the practical part of brewing, will soon be convinced that heat, or fire, is the principal agent therein, as this element, used in a greater or less degree, or differently applied, is the occasion of the greatest part of the variety we perceive. It is but a few years since the thermometer has been found to be an instrument sufficiently accurate for any purposes where the measure of heat is required. And, as it is the only one with which we are enabled to examine the processes of brewing, and to account for the difference in the effects, a theory of the art, founded on practice, must be of later date than the discovery of the instrument that guides us to the principles. So long since as the year 1741, I began this research, and never neglected any opportunity to consult the artists of the trade, or to try such experiments as I conceived might be conducive to the purpose. It is needless, perhaps shameful, to mention their number, or to speak of the many disappointments I met with in this pursuit. Error admits of numberless combinations. Truth alone is simple, and confirmed by continuity. At last, flattering myself with having collected the true theory, assisted and encouraged by men of abilities, I thought it fit the public should judge whether I had succeeded in my enxideavours; and in 1758 the Essay on Brewing was submitted to them, either for their approbation, or that the errors therein might be pointed out. I have had no reason to repent of my temerity, though perhaps the novelty, more than the merit of this performance, engaged the attention, I may add the favor and advice of some good judges. They have allowed my principles to be at least plausible, and their agreement with practice has since repeatedly convinced me they were not far from truth. ......Buy Now (To Read More)

Product details

Ebook Number: 56784
Author: Combrune, Michael
Release Date: Mar 18, 2018
Format: eBook
Language: English