OnTap Magazine

HOMEBREWER Nikko Maree, Strand, Western Cape Q: When and why did you start homebrewing? A: I started home brewing in 2010 when I got into the Punk IPA from BrewDog. I just needed some good beer in my life! Q: What’s the best beer you’ve ever made? A: Best I ever brewed myself was a Duvel clone- a Belgian golden strong ale. Although the beer was not properly aged by the time of National Home Brew Champs, I still got 42 points! My best score yet. Q: What is your biggest brewing disaster? A: Apart from running out of gas mid brew every now and then, the biggest mistake I ever made was probably dropping braai tongs in the fermenter while chilling. Interestingly enough, no infections... Q: Describe your system in a sentence. A: I just had a three vessel HERMS system built, but before that I did the cooler box and jam pot vibes. Q: Do you have any brew day quirks or traditions? A: Always drink the style that you are trying to accomplish while brewing. And hotdogs are a must on brew day. Q: What would be your ultimate clone? A: Replicating my own Duvel clone again.... Q : What is your main homebrewing goal? A: Doing something different every time. I like to be creative with brewing and recipes. Nikko celebrates a successful brew with his wife, Johanna MEET A ontapmag.co.za | Winter 2021 | 61