Technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of the craft beer industry, from production to distribution, and nowhere is this more evident than in the rise of specialized brewing software solutions. Brewers are increasingly turning to tools like Brewfather and BeerSmith to optimize their workflows, adhere to the 3:30-300 rule, and maintain precision in their fermentation processes. These software programs not only streamline operations but also provide breweries with the data-driven insights needed to scale efficiently and meet growing demand. While tools like Untappd have gained popularity for tracking and engaging customers, the choice of brewing software ultimately depends on factors like budget, brewery size, and specific needs. In this article, we’ll dive into the top options available, compare their features, and explore how they’re shaping the future of beer production. Whether you’re a seasoned brewer or just starting out, understanding the best tools for your operation is crucial for staying competitive in today’s dynamic market.

The 3:30-300 Rule for Beer

The 3:30-300 rule is a simple yet effective guideline for understanding how beer ages under different storage conditions. Here’s a breakdown:

• At 90°F for 3 Days: A beer stored at this high temperature for just three days will develop an off-flavor due to rapid oxidation.
• At 72°F for 30 Days: Under these cooler conditions, the beer will age more slowly and develop a balanced flavor profile, making it comparable to the beer stored at 90°F for three days.
• At 38°F for 300 Days: Storing beer in a very cold environment slows down the aging process significantly, resulting in minimal flavor changes over an extended period.

This rule highlights the impact of temperature on beer freshness and how storage conditions affect its shelf life. Proper storage is crucial to maintaining quality and preventing oxidation, which can lead to off-tastes and aromas.

Why the Rule Matters

Beer is highly susceptible to oxidation, which can be accelerated by light, heat, and exposure to oxygen. The 3:30-300 rule helps consumers understand how to store beer effectively:

• Store beer in a cool, dark place between 35°F and 65°F (3°C to 18°C) to slow aging.
• Avoid storing beer in warm environments or areas with direct sunlight.
• Consider using an aseptic package or vacuum-sealed containers for longer storage.
• Consume fresh beer promptly after opening to maximize flavor and freshness.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your beer at its peak flavor while minimizing waste from oxidation or spoilage.

What Software Do Breweries Use?

Breweries utilize specialized software to manage various aspects of their operations, from production to inventory control. Among the most popular solutions are:

• Beer30 by The 5th Ingredient – A comprehensive brewery management system designed for large-scale operations, offering features like recipe management and quality control.
• Ekos – Known for its robust production management capabilities, Ekos helps breweries optimize their manufacturing processes and track inventory efficiently.
• Ollie – Specializing in supply chain and distribution, Ollie is ideal for breweries focused on streamlining their logistics and sales operations.
• Orchestrated Beer – This system excels in integrating with third-party tools, making it a great choice for breweries already using other management software.
• Traction Analytics – Provides real-time data analysis, helping breweries make informed decisions based on their operational metrics.
• Brewers Edge – Focuses on production scheduling and resource allocation, offering tools tailored specifically for small to medium-sized breweries.

Each of these solutions caters to different aspects of brewery operations, ensuring efficient workflow and optimal resource utilization.

What Happened to the Beer Maker on Shark Tank?

The beer maker featured on Shark Tank, known as BEERMKR, has ceased operations. Unlike Fizzics, another product showcased on the show, BEERMKR did not achieve commercial success and eventually shut down its business.

BEERMKR was introduced as a solution for homebrewers to create consistent batches of beer without the hassle of traditional methods. However, despite initial interest, the product faced challenges in scaling production and competing with established players in the craft beer market.

For those interested in homebrewing, there are still great alternatives available. Tools like The Goods On Tap offer comprehensive resources and equipment to help aspiring brewers create high-quality beers at home. Additionally, there are several popular homebrewing kits and accessories available online, such as:

• The Complete Homebrewing Kit by Example Company
• Professional Brewing Tanks by Another Example Co.
• Hop Selection Guides by Expert Brew Supply

While BEERMKR may no longer be available, the passion for craft beer continues to thrive, and there are plenty of resources to help homebrewers succeed.

Best Beer Tracking Apps

When it comes to tracking and managing your beer collection, there are several excellent apps available that cater to different preferences and needs. Here’s a breakdown of the top options:

• Untappd – A leading app in the craft beer community, Untappd allows users to track beers they’ve tasted, rate them, and share experiences with friends. Its extensive database and robust social features make it a favorite among beer enthusiasts.
• BrewMaster – Known for its advanced tracking features, BrewMaster offers tools for organizing your collection and provides detailed analytics. It also integrates well with local breweries, making it ideal for those who want a deeper dive into their beer journey.
• Taphunter – Specializing in helping users find craft beers near them, Taphunter is perfect for discovering new breweries and bars. Its map integration adds significant convenience for exploring local options.

Each app excels in different areas, so the best choice depends on your personal preferences. Untappd shines for its social features, BrewMaster for its tracking capabilities, and Taphunter for its location-based discovery.

Is Untappd Still Popular?

Yes, Untappd is still highly popular and continues to grow in the beer enthusiast community. With its extensive reach and unique features, it has established itself as a go-to platform for tracking and discovering beers worldwide.

Why Is Untappd Popular?

• User Base: Untappd boasts an impressive user base of nearly 12 million registered users, making it the largest platform dedicated to beer lovers.
• Engagement Features: Its interactive features like checking in at bars, rating beers, and exploring local craft beer scenes encourage active participation among users.
• Diverse Content: The app offers a vast database of beers, allowing users to track their preferences and discover new brews from around the globe.
• Social Aspect: Untappd fosters a sense of community among beer enthusiasts, enabling users to connect with others who share their passion for craft beer.

Competitors and Market Position

While there are platforms like BeerMenus that also cater to beer enthusiasts, Untappd distinguishes itself through its user-centric approach and advanced tracking features. Both platforms have their strengths, but Untappd’s focus on individual user experiences and community building sets it apart in the market.

The Future of Untappd

Untappd’s continued popularity is supported by its commitment to innovation and community engagement. By continually updating its app, organizing events, and collaborating with breweries, it maintains its position as a leader in the craft beer space.

Overall, Untappd’s combination of functionality, community, and user-friendliness ensures its enduring appeal among beer lovers worldwide. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a serious collector, Untappd offers tools and experiences that keep users engaged and connected.

Untappd for Business Pricing

Untappd offers flexible pricing options tailored to meet the needs of different businesses:

• Free Plan: Perfect for small businesses or individuals who want to explore the platform.
  Pricing: Free
• Small Business Plan: Ideal for growing businesses needing advanced tracking and reporting features.
  Pricing: $19/month
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing for large organizations with complex needs and extensive teams.
  Pricing: Contact Untappd for details

Additional benefits include:

• A free trial period for businesses to evaluate the platform
• Advanced analytics and reporting tools
• Team management capabilities

For more information or to choose the best plan for your business, visit The Goods On Tap .