Steve Piatz is a retired computer engineer and an award-winning beer and mead-maker. A member of the Minnesota Homebrewers Association and the Saint Paul Homebrewers Club, a Grand Master V BJCP (Beer Judge Certification Program) judge, and an Exam Director for the BJCP exam program, he resides in Eagan, Minnesota.

"With the popularity of craft beer brewing, it is no surprise to see home brewers turning to mead to expand their skills and experiment with different ingredients and flavors. In his first book, 2008 American Homebrewers Association Mead Maker of the Year Piatz beautifully tackles the science and art of mead making. He begins with "A Brief History of Mead," followed by chapters on essential ingredients (honey varieties, yeast strains) and basic and advanced techniques. Special ingredients such as fruits, spices, and chocolate are also covered, and measurements are provided in metric and U.S. standard units (e.g., pounds and kilograms of honey). The exacting nature of the brewing process is complemented by encouragement to investigate flavors and customize packaging. Piatz's comprehensive treatment includes a glossary, an index, a sources page, and a "Troubleshooting" chapter.Verdict Recommended for experienced home brewers seeking a new challenge as well as novices who want to begin their brewing practice with mead. With honey as the basic component, this title may also appeal to readers interested in beekeeping." - LJXpress

Steve Piatz is a retired computer engineer and an award-winning beer and mead-maker. A member of the Minnesota Homebrewers Association and the Saint Paul Homebrewers Club, a Grand Master V BJCP (Beer Judge Certification Program) judge, and an Exam Director for the BJCP exam program, he resides in Eagan, Minnesota.

"With the popularity of craft beer brewing, it is no surprise to see home brewers turning to mead to expand their skills and experiment with different ingredients and flavors. In his first book, 2008 American Homebrewers Association Mead Maker of the Year Piatz beautifully tackles the science and art of mead making. He begins with "A Brief History of Mead," followed by chapters on essential ingredients (honey varieties, yeast strains) and basic and advanced techniques. Special ingredients such as fruits, spices, and chocolate are also covered, and measurements are provided in metric and U.S. standard units (e.g., pounds and kilograms of honey). The exacting nature of the brewing process is complemented by encouragement to investigate flavors and customize packaging. Piatz's comprehensive treatment includes a glossary, an index, a sources page, and a "Troubleshooting" chapter.Verdict Recommended for experienced home brewers seeking a new challenge as well as novices who want to begin their brewing practice with mead. With honey as the basic component, this title may also appeal to readers interested in beekeeping." - LJXpress