Inside The New York Botanical Garden

Pilsners, Ales, Reds and Whites!

Posted in Adult Education on January 23 2012, by Education at NYBG

Donald McClellandTry and name a few important crops, just off the top of your head. Were grapes or hops found anywhere on that list? They probably weren’t the first plants to come to mind, but there’s almost no doubt whatsoever: they’re two of the most constant influences on culture throughout our history. Beer and wine have been the indulgence of choice for entire civilizations, from Pharaohs to Caesars and up through our modern society.

As part of our Botany of Indulgence classroom series (see: chocolate), Donald McClelland brings his homebrewing know-how to our Midtown classrooms for an in-depth chat on the art and science of fermentation, pegging perfect flavors, and the equipment needed to start your own cask or keg at home. His experience is soundly based on personal necessity (and the life of a student, of course).

“I got interested in homebrewing and winemaking because my dad does both,” says McClelland, a student in the NYBG/CUNY Plant Science Ph.D program. “As a grad student, buying good beer and wine isn’t always an option. Making it is an affordable alternative.”

For the aspiring homebrewer who can’t tell wort from weissbier, this is the chance to set aside your hesitation and jump straight into creating flavorful, high-quality libations of your own. It’s easier than you think. And, as Donald puts it, “there is something very rewarding about making your own beer and wine.” So save yourself the trouble of another pricy bar tab–inviting your friends over for homemade brew is miles more impressive than picking up the check at the local dive.


The NYBG homebrewing class takes place on Saturday, February 11 from 12:45 to 2:45, in our Midtown location. Cost: $31 for non-members, $28 for members. As always, seats will be limited, so signing up early is your best guarantee!