Contributing Factor Brewing Is Back: A Fresh Design and New Homebrew Plans

Welcome to the newly redesigned Contributing Factor Brewing.

This website refresh has done more than update the look and feel—it has reignited my passion for homebrewing and inspired me to get back behind the kettle. If you caught my recent post, you’ll know I picked up the ingredients for an AleSmith IPA clone during a trip to San Diego. With a little luck and some free time, brew day will be happening in the coming weeks.

While I wouldn’t call myself a prolific brewer, I’m proud of what I’ve created so far. To date, I’ve brewed five beers, each one balanced, flavorful, and enjoyable to share. Sure, one IPA leaned more toward a pale ale and a stout finished with an ABV closer to a porter, but that’s part of the fun of homebrewing.

For me, brewing isn’t about chasing the highest alcohol content or the biggest hop bitterness. It’s about creating beer with character—beer that I enjoy drinking and feel proud to share with family and friends.

The Beers Behind the Stories

My first three beers were brewed in 2018 and inspired by my career with Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART). Each beer name reflected something connected to my job, the transit system, or a memorable incident along the way.

Later that year, I combined two hobbies—beer and Fantasy Premier League. One beer was dedicated to The Two Cheaters Podcast, hosted by a pair of Michigan natives who brought plenty of laughs and entertainment to the fantasy game. My final brew, created in early 2019, was inspired by friends in the #FPLBeerClub, a community brought together by a shared love of football, beer, and good conversation.

More Than Homebrewing

If you’re looking for inspiration on what to drink next, be sure to check out the 30 Second Beer Reviews. The collection features more than 300 beer reviews, each clocking in at roughly 30 seconds. While some of the beers reviewed are no longer available, they’re still a fun snapshot of the craft beer scene over the years.

I’ve recently restarted the review series and am currently working my way through the impressive beer lineup at California Coast Beer Company. Why there? It’s my local brewpub, I’m there almost daily, and as a club member I’ve come to appreciate not only the quality of the beer but also the people who make the place such a welcoming destination.

Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to read. If there’s a beer you’d like to see reviewed—or a recipe you’d like to see brewed—I’d love to hear from you.

Cheers,

Stephen

stephen [at] contributingfactorbrewing.com