For many, the art of home-brewing beer appears to be a daunting task best left to seasoned enthusiasts. However, Seattle-based company iGulu is aiming to simplify the process with its new automated beer-brewing machine, the iGulu S1. This countertop device promises to make brewing beer at home as easy as pressing a button, appealing to both beginners and experienced brewers alike.
The iGulu S1 uses system-specific premixed ingredient kits to streamline the brewing process. Each kit includes malt extract, hops extract, and yeast. To begin, users simply empty the powdered contents of a kit into the S1’s tank along with one gallon (3.8 liters) of filtered water. The tank is then placed inside the machine. By holding an RFID tag from the kit’s packet up to a reader on the S1, all necessary data regarding fermentation pressure, temperature, and time is relayed to the machine.
With a single press of a button, the brewing process begins. The iGulu S1 typically takes about one to two weeks to produce a gallon of beer, with the exact time varying based on the type of beer being brewed. Once the brewing is complete, the beer is chilled to an ideal serving temperature ranging from 37.4 °F to 53.6 °F (3 °C to 12 °C). The beer can then be dispensed into glasses or optional reusable pressurized bottles using an integrated air pump.
For those who prefer to keep their beer fresh for an extended period, the iGulu S1 offers the option to use an adapter and a third-party CO2 cylinder. This setup allows the beer to stay fresh for up to 30 days. Without these additions, the beer should be consumed relatively quickly to ensure its freshness.
The iGulu S1 also offers a degree of customization through its iOS/Android app. This app allows users to monitor the brewing process remotely and even create their own recipes by manually programming brewing parameters. Additionally, the machine is not limited to beer alone; users can brew other fermented beverages such as mead, kombucha, cider, and white wine.
One of the standout features of the iGulu S1 is its removable, washable fermentation tank made of BPA-free, impact-resistant Tritan polymer. This ensures both durability and safety in the brewing process. Moreover, the machine can accept one-gallon tanks of third-party ready-to-drink beer, which it can chill and dispense, adding to its versatility.
For those interested in acquiring the iGulu S1, it is currently available through a Kickstarter campaign. Early backers can pledge $299 to receive a unit, while the planned retail price is set at $549. This makes the iGulu S1 an attractive option for anyone looking to venture into home-brewing without the hassle and complexity traditionally associated with the craft.
In conclusion, the iGulu S1 presents an innovative solution for home-brewing enthusiasts, offering convenience, customization, and a straightforward brewing process. Whether you are a novice looking to try your hand at brewing or an experienced brewer seeking an easier way to produce small batches, the iGulu S1 is designed to meet your needs.
Source: Kickstarter
