Do Expensive Ingredients Make Better Brews?

Does spending more money actually make better mead, wine, beer, or cider? In this episode of The Fermenstation Podcast, Brian and Derica explore what really makes something "cheap" or "expensive." They discuss why some products command premium prices, how branding affects buying decisions, and whether higher cost actually means higher quality. Cheap vs Expensive Mead Test:    • Can You Make EXPENSIVE MEAD, on the CHEAP?   _____________________________________ Tools We Use: Star San: https://amzn.to/3SXFoKg Auto Siphon: https://amzn.to/4cz8VRr Graduated Cylinder and Hydrometer: https://amzn.to/4ow8gXz Tilt Digital Hydrometer: https://amzn.to/4njWPkv Coupe Cocktail Glasses: https://amzn.to/4ntitEt GLENCAIRN Whiskey Glass: https://amzn.to/3Fbll78 We use the Amazon Affiliate Program for these links and we DO receive a small commission if you purchase using our links and all this comes at no additional cost to you! _____________________________________ Along the way we dive into: *Cheap vs premium honey for mead *Brewing equipment and specialty glassware *Marketing, branding, and perceived value *Exclusivity vs inclusivity in products *Quality versus price *When premium ingredients actually make a difference *Finding the best value instead of simply buying the cheapest—or the most expensive The goal isn't to convince you to buy budget equipment or luxury gear. It's to help you spend your brewing budget wisely and understand when paying more is truly worth it. Whether you brew mead, wine, beer, cider, or simply enjoy learning about fermentation, this discussion offers practical advice that can save money while still producing outstanding beverages. What brewing purchase was absolutely worth the extra money—and what expensive item disappointed you? Tell us in the comments! _____________________________________ Become a City Steading VIP - Click to learn more http://www.city-steading.com/vip-club Want more City Steading? Recipes: @CitySteadingBrews Tastings: @citysteadingtastingroom Chaos: @CitySteadingBTB Rants: @CitySteadingUnfiltered Non-Alcoholic Beverages: @CitySteadingZero Gardening: @PlantLifeYT Website: http://www.city-steading.com Instagram:   / citysteading   #Homebrewing #Mead #BeerBrewing #WineMaking #CiderMaking #BrewingEquipment #Honey #Fermentation #CraftBeer #HomebrewPodcast #DIYBrewing #CitySteadingBrews