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Showing posts with label Menu planning. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Menu planning. Show all posts

Saturday, March 16, 2024

What is the significance of a Good Menu Design in any Food & Beverage Outlet?

 A well-designed menu is crucial for any food and beverage outlet for several reasons:

  1. Enhanced Customer Experience: A good menu design can enhance the overall dining experience for customers. It sets the tone for the meal, creates anticipation, and engages customers before they even taste the food.


  2. Increased Sales: A well-designed menu can influence customers' choices and encourage them to spend more. Strategic placement of items, descriptions, and visuals can draw attention to high-profit items or specials.


  3. Brand Representation: The menu is often one of the first touchpoints for customers to interact with a restaurant's brand. A well-designed menu reflects the restaurant's identity, style, and personality, helping to reinforce brand image and values.


  4. Ease of Navigation: A well-organized menu layout makes it easy for customers to find what they want quickly. Clear categorization, logical flow, and readability contribute to a seamless ordering process, reducing frustration and enhancing satisfaction.


  5. Highlighting Specials and Promotions: Effective menu design can draw attention to special dishes, promotions, or seasonal offerings, increasing their visibility and driving sales.


  6. Clarity and Transparency: A good menu design communicates information clearly and transparently. This includes prices, ingredients, dietary information, and any other relevant details, helping customers make informed decisions and avoiding misunderstandings.


  7. Upselling Opportunities: Thoughtful menu design can incorporate techniques like suggestive selling or pairing suggestions, encouraging customers to explore additional menu items or upgrades.


  8. Differentiation and Competitive Advantage: In a competitive market, a visually appealing and well-crafted menu can help a restaurant stand out from competitors. Unique design elements, creative presentation, and quality photography can capture attention and leave a lasting impression.


  9. Adaptability and Flexibility: A good menu design should be adaptable to changes in offerings, pricing, or seasonal variations. It should allow for easy updates without compromising aesthetics or functionality.


  10. Feedback and Improvement: Analyzing customer interactions with the menu can provide valuable insights for improving offerings, pricing strategies, and overall dining experience. A well-designed menu facilitates this feedback loop by making it easy for customers to provide input and for the restaurant to respond accordingly.

Overall, a good menu design is an essential tool for driving sales, enhancing customer satisfaction, and building a strong brand identity for any food and beverage outlet.

My YouTube Channel:

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Visit the website to order handcrafted packaging for your wine bottles, Whisky bottles, and miniatures

Monday, July 24, 2023

What are the key factors to be considered while pricing the menu?

 Pricing a menu is a critical aspect of running a successful food business, whether it's a restaurant, cafe, or any other food service establishment. Several key factors should be considered while determining the prices on your menu. Here are some of the most important ones:


Food Cost: Calculate the cost of ingredients required to prepare each dish on the menu. Ideally, the menu price should cover the food cost while leaving room for profit. Aim for a food cost percentage that aligns with industry standards for your type of establishment.


Overhead Costs: Take into account all the non-food expenses involved in running your business, such as rent, utilities, labor, insurance, equipment maintenance, and marketing. These overhead costs need to be factored into the menu prices to ensure the business remains profitable.


Market Research: Analyze your target market and competition. Research what other similar establishments in the area are charging for similar dishes. Pricing too high might drive away customers, while pricing too low might raise questions about the quality of your offerings.


Positioning and Branding: Consider the positioning and brand image you want to portray. Are you aiming to be an upscale, high-end restaurant, a budget-friendly cafe, or something in between? Your pricing should align with the perceived value you want to provide.


Profit Margin: Determine the profit margin you want to achieve for your business. Profitability is essential for sustainability and growth. The profit margin can vary based on your business goals and industry standards.


Menu Engineering: Strategically highlight certain dishes or items with higher profit margins, using techniques like menu layout, design, and descriptions. These can influence customers' choices and maximize profitability.


Seasonality: If your menu features seasonal ingredients, consider how that affects pricing. Prices might fluctuate based on ingredient availability and cost.


Portion Size: Balance portion sizes to ensure customer satisfaction while optimizing cost. Generous portions might attract customers, but they should still be cost-effective.


Price Perception: Be mindful of how customers perceive your prices. Prices that end in .99 or .95 might be perceived as more affordable than rounded numbers, even if the difference is minimal.


Menu Variety: Offer a diverse range of dishes to cater to different preferences and budgets. Having a mix of higher-priced and lower-priced items can cater to a broader customer base.


Specials and Promotions: Consider incorporating specials and promotions to attract customers during slow periods or to introduce new dishes.


Menu Updates: Regularly review and update your menu prices to adapt to changes in ingredient costs, market trends, and customer preferences.


Ultimately, finding the right balance between profitability and customer satisfaction is crucial when pricing your menu. Regularly monitor and evaluate how your pricing strategy is performing and be open to making adjustments as needed.






Thursday, July 13, 2023

How Menu Engineering can help reviving the Restaurant Business?

 Menu engineering is a strategic approach used by restaurants to optimize their menu offerings in order to increase profitability and customer satisfaction. By applying menu engineering principles, restaurants can revitalize their business in several ways:


Profit Maximization: Menu engineering involves analyzing the profitability of each menu item. By identifying the high-profit and low-profit items, restaurant owners can make informed decisions about pricing, portion sizes, and ingredient costs. They can focus on promoting and highlighting the items that yield higher profit margins while considering adjustments or removing items that are not profitable.


Sales Optimization: Menu engineering helps in strategically positioning and promoting certain menu items to drive sales. Through effective categorization, placement, and visual presentation, restaurants can influence customer choices and encourage them to order higher-profit items or signature dishes. For example, using enticing descriptions, highlighting chef recommendations, or incorporating appealing food photography can attract attention and drive sales.


Demand Forecasting: By analyzing sales data and customer preferences, restaurants can gain insights into popular and less popular menu items. This information helps in understanding customer demand patterns, allowing the restaurant to make data-driven decisions regarding inventory management, ingredient sourcing, and menu design. Accurate demand forecasting reduces waste, optimizes costs, and enhances overall operational efficiency.


Menu Simplification: Streamlining and simplifying the menu can improve the overall dining experience. A cluttered or overly complex menu can confuse customers and lead to decision paralysis. Menu engineering involves analyzing the popularity and profitability of each item and potentially eliminating or reworking items that are not performing well. A concise and well-structured menu reduces customer confusion, speeds up decision-making, and enhances customer satisfaction.


Upselling and Cross-selling: Menu engineering provides opportunities for upselling and cross-selling. By strategically placing complementary or higher-priced items near popular choices or highlighting them with visual cues, restaurants can encourage customers to add extras, upgrade their orders, or try new dishes. This increases the average check size and revenue per customer.


Menu Innovation and Differentiation: Menu engineering can uncover insights about customer preferences and trends, allowing restaurants to introduce innovative and appealing menu items. By understanding customer needs and expectations, restaurants can create unique offerings that differentiate them from competitors and attract new customers.


In summary, menu engineering offers a systematic approach for analyzing and optimizing menus to drive profitability, enhance customer satisfaction, and revive the restaurant business. By employing strategies to maximize profits, optimize sales, simplify menus, and cater to customer preferences, restaurants can improve their financial performance and attract and retain a loyal customer base.


My YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtEmIqoo7SW9iqEG1nM1s6w




Wednesday, June 7, 2023

Basic Principles of Menu Planning

 The basic principles of menu planning revolve around creating a balanced and appealing selection of food items for a specific purpose or establishment. Here are some key principles to consider:


Variety and Balance: Offer a diverse range of food items to cater to different tastes, dietary needs, and cultural preferences. Ensure a balance of nutrients by including items from different food groups, such as proteins, grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy.


Seasonality and Freshness: Incorporate seasonal ingredients to maximize freshness, flavor, and nutritional value. Plan menus that reflect the availability of local, fresh produce, which can enhance the dining experience.


Dietary Requirements: Consider the dietary requirements of your target audience. Provide options for individuals with special dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergen-free dishes. Label items clearly to help customers make informed choices.


Menu Flow and Organization: Organize the menu logically, starting with appetizers or small plates, followed by main courses and desserts. Consider the progression of flavors, textures, and portion sizes to create a harmonious dining experience.


Cost and Budget: Ensure that the menu aligns with the budgetary constraints of the establishment. Take into account ingredient costs, portion sizes, and the desired profit margins while creating a balance between affordable and high-value options.


Culinary Expertise and Skill: Leverage the skills and expertise of the kitchen staff while planning the menu. Consider their strengths and specialties to highlight their culinary talents and ensure consistent quality.


Customer Preferences and Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from customers to understand their preferences, identify popular dishes, and make necessary adjustments to the menu. This helps in creating a menu that resonates with the target audience.


Seasonal Specials and Limited-time Offers: Introduce seasonal specials or limited-time offers to add excitement and keep the menu fresh. This can encourage customers to try new items and enhance their dining experience.


Cost and Profitability Analysis: Regularly analyze the cost of ingredients, pricing, and profitability of menu items. Adjust the menu accordingly to maintain a balance between customer satisfaction and financial viability.


Sustainability and Ethical Considerations: Consider sustainability and ethical factors while planning the menu. Incorporate locally sourced, organic, and ethically produced ingredients, and promote environmentally friendly practices, such as reducing food waste.


By following these basic principles, you can create a well-rounded and enticing menu that meets the needs and preferences of your target audience while ensuring operational efficiency and profitability.

Tuesday, March 14, 2023

MENU ENGINEERING

Menu engineering is the process of strategically designing and analyzing a restaurant's menu to maximize profitability and customer satisfaction. It involves a combination of data analysis, menu design, and pricing strategies to optimize the restaurant's revenue streams. The objective of menu engineering is to ensure that the menu items are priced correctly, attractive to customers, and profitable for the restaurant.


Menu Engineering Process:

The menu engineering process involves four stages: Menu Analysis, Menu Design, Menu Pricing, and Menu Implementation.


Menu Analysis:

The first stage of menu engineering involves analyzing the existing menu to determine which menu items are most popular, which are least popular, which are most profitable, and which are least profitable. This analysis helps to identify the menu items that are driving revenue and those that are not. Menu analysis also includes the categorization of menu items into high, medium, and low performers based on their popularity and profitability.


Menu Design:

The second stage of menu engineering involves designing the menu to enhance the restaurant's profitability. The design of the menu includes the placement of items, menu item descriptions, and visual presentation. Menu items that are most popular and profitable should be placed in prominent positions, such as the top-right corner of the menu or in a separate box. The menu item descriptions should be compelling and detailed to entice customers to order.


Menu Pricing:

The third stage of menu engineering involves pricing the menu items correctly. The pricing strategy should consider the cost of ingredients, labor, and overhead costs, as well as the competition's pricing. The pricing should also reflect the perceived value of the menu item to the customer. The menu items should be priced in a way that maximizes profit margins while remaining competitive.


Menu Implementation:

The fourth stage of menu engineering involves implementing the changes to the menu. The changes should be communicated to the staff, and the menu should be updated on the restaurant's website and social media channels. The restaurant should also monitor the performance of the new menu items and make adjustments as needed.


Menu Engineering Techniques:

There are several techniques that can be used in menu engineering to optimize the profitability of the restaurant.


Menu Item Categorization:

Menu items are categorized into four categories based on their popularity and profitability: Stars, Plowhorses, Puzzles, and Dogs. Stars are menu items that are popular and profitable, while Plowhorses are items that are popular but not very profitable. Puzzles are items that are not very popular but profitable, while Dogs are items that are not popular and not profitable. This categorization helps to identify which items to promote, which to reposition, and which to remove from the menu.


Menu Item Placement:

The placement of menu items on the menu can influence customer behavior. Menu items that are most profitable should be placed in the top-right corner of the menu, which is the first place the customer's eye will go. Menu items that are less profitable should be placed in less prominent positions.


Menu Item Descriptions:

Compelling and detailed descriptions of menu items can increase the likelihood of the customer ordering the item. Descriptions should be designed to highlight the unique features of the item and create a sense of anticipation and excitement.


Menu Item Pricing:

The pricing of menu items should consider the perceived value of the item to the customer. For example, a high-priced menu item may be perceived as more valuable if it is made with high-quality ingredients. The pricing should also consider the competition's pricing and the profit margin for the restaurant.


Conclusion:

Menu engineering is a critical aspect of restaurant management that can have a significant impact on profitability. By analyzing the menu, designing the menu, pricing the menu items correctly, and implementing the changes, a restaurant can optimize its revenue streams while enhancing customer satisfaction. 

Friday, March 10, 2023

Importance of Menu Planning for a restaurant

 Menu planning is an essential aspect of running a successful restaurant business. A well-planned menu not only attracts customers but also helps in managing inventory and minimizing waste. In this article, we will discuss the importance of menu planning for a restaurant and its benefits for both the business and customers.


Increased Efficiency

Menu planning allows a restaurant to have a better understanding of the ingredients they need to order and use. This enables the restaurant to reduce inventory waste and save money by ordering only the necessary ingredients. This efficient use of inventory reduces costs and increases profits.


Improved Customer Experience

A well-planned menu helps customers make informed choices about their meals. A menu that is easy to read and understand with clear descriptions of the dishes and their ingredients improves the dining experience. It also ensures that customers receive the dishes they have ordered without confusion.


Consistency

A well-planned menu ensures consistency in the quality of the dishes served. With a set menu, the kitchen staff knows exactly what to prepare, and customers can expect the same quality and taste of the dishes every time they visit the restaurant.


Better Pricing Strategy

Menu planning helps restaurants to price their dishes appropriately. By understanding the cost of the ingredients, restaurants can set prices that ensure profitability. Additionally, the menu can be designed to include high-profit items that boost revenue.


Accommodating Dietary Requirements

With menu planning, restaurants can accommodate customers with dietary requirements such as gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian. By having a set menu with clear descriptions of the ingredients used in each dish, customers can make informed choices and enjoy their meals without worry.


Improved Marketing

A well-designed menu can be an excellent marketing tool for a restaurant. By showcasing the best dishes and highlighting unique ingredients or cooking methods, a restaurant can attract customers and create a memorable dining experience. Social media posts with images of menu items can also attract new customers and build brand awareness.


In conclusion, menu planning is a critical aspect of running a successful restaurant business. It helps in managing inventory, improving customer experience, ensuring consistency, better pricing, accommodating dietary requirements, and improving marketing. By investing time and effort in menu planning, restaurant owners can attract and retain customers and increase profits.




Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Important qualities needed to be successful as a Restaurant Steward

 To be successful as a restaurant steward, there are several important qualities that one should possess. These qualities include:


Attention to detail: A restaurant steward should have an eye for detail and be able to notice any issues that need attention, such as dirty dishes or spills on the floor.


Multitasking abilities: A restaurant steward should be able to handle multiple tasks at once, such as taking orders, serving food, and clearing tables.


Customer service skills: A restaurant steward should be friendly, polite, and attentive to customers' needs to provide excellent customer service.


Physical stamina: A restaurant steward should be physically fit and able to stand for long periods and carry heavy trays of food and dishes.


Teamwork: A restaurant steward should be able to work well in a team environment and communicate effectively with other restaurant staff.


Time management: A restaurant steward should be able to manage their time effectively and prioritize tasks to ensure that everything gets done in a timely manner.


Adaptability: A restaurant steward should be able to adapt to changes in the restaurant environment and be flexible in their duties.


Positive attitude: A restaurant steward should have a positive attitude and be willing to go above and beyond to ensure that customers have a great dining experience.


Overall, being a successful restaurant steward requires a combination of practical skills, interpersonal skills, and personal qualities.




Tuesday, February 28, 2023

How to run a successful Restaurant Business?????

 Running a successful restaurant business requires a combination of hard work, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of the industry. Here are some key steps to help you build and run a successful restaurant:


Develop a Business Plan: Start by creating a comprehensive business plan that outlines your vision for the restaurant, your target audience, your menu, marketing strategies, financial projections, and other important details.


Choose a Strategic Location: Find a location that is easily accessible, has high foot traffic, and is in a desirable area for your target audience.


Create a Memorable Menu: Develop a menu that features high-quality ingredients and unique dishes that set your restaurant apart from competitors. Make sure to consider dietary restrictions and preferences when creating your menu.


Hire and Train Talented Staff: Your staff will be the face of your restaurant and play a critical role in ensuring a positive dining experience for customers. Hire talented chefs, servers, and other staff members, and provide them with thorough training and ongoing support.


Offer Exceptional Customer Service: Make sure that your customers feel welcomed, valued, and appreciated at your restaurant. Train your staff to provide exceptional customer service and prioritize customer satisfaction in every interaction.


Develop Effective Marketing Strategies: Promote your restaurant through social media, email marketing, word-of-mouth referrals, and other effective marketing channels. Consider partnering with local businesses and hosting events to increase your visibility in the community.


Manage Your Finances Wisely: Keep track of your finances closely, and create a budget that allows you to cover all of your expenses while generating a profit. Consider partnering with a financial advisor or accountant to ensure that you are managing your finances effectively.


Continuously Improve and Innovate: Regularly review and analyze your business operations and customer feedback to identify areas for improvement and innovation. Continuously update your menu, marketing strategies, and other aspects of your business to stay ahead of competitors and meet the changing needs of your customers.


By following these key steps and staying focused on providing exceptional service and value to your customers, you can build and run a successful restaurant business.




Wednesday, February 22, 2023

17th Century French Classical Menu

The 17-course French Classical Menu is a traditional and lavish dining experience that originated in France during the 19th century. It comprises of a series of courses, each served in a specific order and designed to create a gastronomic journey for the diners. The menu typically includes a variety of dishes, ranging from hot and cold appetizers to a variety of main courses, desserts, and coffee or tea.


Here is a detailed breakdown of the 17 courses in the French Classical Menu:


Amuse-bouche: A small, bite-sized appetizer, served as a gesture of the chef's creativity and to stimulate the appetite.


Hors d'oeuvres: A selection of cold and hot appetizers, including canapes, pate, terrine, and soup.


Potage: A thick and hearty soup, typically made with meat, vegetables, and cream.


Oeuf: An egg dish, usually a poached or scrambled egg, served with cheese or cream.


Poisson: A fish course, served with a light sauce, vegetables, and garnishes.


Sorbet: A palate cleanser, typically a fruity or icy dessert.


Entrée: A meat or poultry dish, served with a rich sauce and vegetables.


Aspic: A meat, fish, or vegetable dish that is set in jelly or gelatin.


Selle d'agneau: A saddle of lamb, usually roasted and served with a side of vegetables.


Salade: A fresh and light salad course, typically made with greens, vegetables, and a light vinaigrette.


Fromage: A selection of cheeses, typically served with bread, crackers, and fruit.


Dessert: A sweet and indulgent course, typically a pastry, cake, or fruit dish.


Café: A coffee course, typically served with a small pastry or chocolate.


Liqueur: A small serving of liqueur or cognac, typically served as a digestive.


Friandises: Small sweets or candies, served as a final indulgence.


Digestif: A small serving of liqueur or brandy, typically served at the end of the meal to aid digestion.


Mignardises: Small, bite-sized desserts, typically served with coffee or tea.


In summary, the 17-course French Classical Menu is a luxurious and extravagant dining experience that offers a wide variety of dishes, flavors, and textures. It is a testament to the rich culinary history and culture of France and is still celebrated today as a symbol of the country's refined and sophisticated approach to food.



My YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtEmIqoo7SW9iqEG1nM1s6w

Monday, February 20, 2023

ORIGIN OF MADEIRA WINE

Madeira wine originates from the Portuguese island of Madeira, located in the Atlantic Ocean off the northwest coast of Africa. The island was discovered in the 15th century during the Age of Discovery, and the first vineyards were planted soon after. The wine was initially produced as a cheap fortified wine for sailors traveling long distances, as the high alcohol content helped preserve the wine during the journey.


In the 17th century, the island's wine industry began to flourish, and Madeira wine became a popular drink among European nobility. Its popularity continued to grow, and by the 18th century, it was one of the most highly prized wines in the world.


Madeira wine's unique flavor profile is due in part to the process by which it is produced. The wine is heated and oxidized during the aging process, which gives it a distinctive nutty, caramel-like taste. The wine is also fortified with brandy, which increases its alcohol content and helps preserve it.


Today, Madeira wine is still produced on the island of Madeira, and the wine is protected by EU regulations, which require it to be made in a specific way and from specific grape varieties. Madeira wine is a popular dessert wine, and it is often used in cooking to add depth and complexity to dishes. 

Friday, February 17, 2023

PHO, RAMEN, SOBA & UDON (The world of Noodles)

 Pho, Soba, Ramen, and Udon are all popular noodle dishes from different Asian countries, each with its own unique flavor and preparation.


Pho:

Pho is a Vietnamese noodle soup consisting of rice noodles, broth, meat (usually beef or chicken), herbs, and spices. The broth is usually made by simmering beef or chicken bones with spices such as star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, which gives it a rich and flavorful taste. The noodles are thin and flat and are often accompanied by bean sprouts, lime wedges, chili peppers, and fresh herbs such as cilantro, basil, and mint. Pho is typically served as a breakfast or lunch dish and is often enjoyed with a side of hoisin sauce or Sriracha sauce.


Soba:

Soba is a Japanese noodle dish made from buckwheat flour and wheat flour. The noodles are thin and usually served cold with a dipping sauce or hot in a soup. Soba is often eaten as a healthy alternative to other noodle dishes because buckwheat is high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants. Soba can be served with a variety of toppings such as sliced green onions, seaweed, and tempura. It is a versatile dish and can be enjoyed in many different ways.


Ramen:

Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup consisting of Chinese-style wheat noodles, broth, meat (usually pork, chicken, or beef), and toppings such as sliced pork, green onions, and soft-boiled eggs. The broth can be made in several ways, including shoyu (soy sauce), miso (fermented soybean paste), and tonkotsu (pork bone). Ramen is a popular dish in Japan and has become popular around the world. It is often served in ramen shops and can be customized with various toppings to suit individual tastes.


Udon:

Udon is a Japanese noodle dish made from wheat flour, water, and salt. The noodles are thick and chewy and are often served in a hot soup or cold with a dipping sauce. Udon can be served with a variety of toppings, including tempura, green onions, and grated daikon radish. It is a popular dish in Japan and is often enjoyed during the colder months as a hearty and warming meal.


In summary, Pho, Soba, Ramen, and Udon are all popular noodle dishes from different Asian countries, each with its own unique flavor and preparation. Whether you prefer a hearty noodle soup or a cold noodle dish, there is sure to be a noodle dish that suits your tastes.




Monday, October 26, 2020

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

Types of Menu and origin



This video is all about the Menu, its origin, and the different types. This video elaborates on the different types of Menus. This food & beverage service video also includes the variants of menus like the plat du jour, carte du jour, banquet menu/buffet menu & cyclic menu.#fnbclasses



 

Basic Restaurant Tools - Glassware



This video is all about the different types of glassware used in the Restaurant. This video is the 3rd part of the 3 video series of Basic Restaurant Tools. This food & beverage service video includes the names of the glass ware pieces and their uses. Also what are the different beverages served in these glasses. #fnbclasses



 

Basic Restaurant Tools - Tableware



This video is all about the different types of cutlery, flatware & hollow ware used in the Restaurant. This video is the 2nd part of the 3 video series of Basic Restaurant Tools. This food & beverage service video includes the names of the table ware pieces and their uses. Also how to use and hold the cutlery & the flatware. #fnbclasses



 

Basic Restaurant Tools - Crockery



This video is all about the different types of crockery used in the Restaurant. This video is the 1st part of the 3 video series of Basic Restaurant Tools. This food & beverage service video includes the names of the crockery pieces and their uses. Also how to use and hold the crockery & cutlery. Subscribe to the channel for more videos: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtEm... Follow my page: https://www.facebook.com/fnbclassesby... Follow my blog: https://fnbclasses.blogspot.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fnbclassesb... Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hksingh/


 

Beer Tasting-Review of Hopper & White Owl Spark

 



This video is about tasting & review of two Belgium wit style beers, hopper, and white owl spark. Both of them are the wheat beers with a lot of adjuncts added to them like wheat, orange peel, coriander seeds, and other spices.



What role does Glycerin plays in the production of Beer?

  Glycerin, also known as glycerol, can play a role in beer production, particularly in the context of brewing high-alcohol beers or address...