If you’re looking to craft your perfect brew at home, I’ve found the 15 best beer brewing kits that suit any skill level. From beginner-friendly options like Northern Brewer’s starter set to advanced kits like BrewDemon’s craft beer system, there’s something for everyone. These kits offer a range of styles, flavors, and equipment to help you get started quickly and produce great tasting beers. Keep exploring to find the ideal setup for your home brewing journey.
Key Takeaways
- Beginner-friendly kits with simple instructions and manageable batch sizes for easy home brewing.
- Equipment packages featuring essential tools like fermenters, kettles, and bottling supplies for consistent results.
- Popular styles include IPAs, Oktoberfest, and Canadian Blonde, catering to various flavor preferences.
- Quick turnaround options allow brewing in less than a month with minimal setup and cleanup.
- Pros and cons vary from comprehensive features to limitations in customization and advanced brewing techniques.
Northern Brewer HomeBrewing Starter Set
If you’re new to homebrewing or looking for a hassle-free way to start, the Northern Brewer HomeBrewing Starter Set is an excellent choice. It’s a complete, all-in-one kit designed for beginners, making it easy to brew five gallons of beer at home. The set includes essential equipment like a fermentor, bottling bucket, brew kettle, and tools, along with clear instructions to guide you through the process. I appreciated how user-friendly and well-organized everything was, ensuring consistent results. Whether you’re making beer for fun or as a gift, this kit provides everything you need to craft a delicious batch confidently.
Best For: beginners and hobbyists seeking a comprehensive, easy-to-use homebrewing kit to make five gallons of beer with clear instructions and quality equipment.
Pros:
- All-in-one kit with essential equipment included for a complete brewing experience
- User-friendly instructions suitable for first-time brewers
- Produces approximately 50 bottles of beer, ideal for sharing or gifting
Cons:
- May be limited in advanced brewing features for experienced homebrewers
- The included recipe is specific, which might not appeal to those looking to customize flavors
- Requires some space and cleanup, which could be challenging for very small or cluttered areas
Craft A Brew Oktoberfest Ale Beer Making Kit
The Craft A Brew Oktoberfest Ale Beer Making Kit is an excellent choice for beginners and hobbyists enthusiastic to craft authentic German-style beer at home. It includes all the essential equipment and high-quality ingredients, making the brewing process straightforward and enjoyable. Designed for a 1-gallon batch, it yields about 10-12 bottles, with clear, step-by-step instructions that simplify fermentation and carbonation. Although some users have experienced packaging issues or equipment challenges, overall, the kit offers a fun, educational experience. Its elegant design, sustainability focus, and positive reviews make it a top pick for those eager to explore traditional Oktoberfest brewing.
Best For: homebrewers of all skill levels who want to craft authentic Oktoberfest-style beer easily and enjoyably at home.
Pros:
- Complete kit with high-quality ingredients and user-friendly instructions suitable for beginners.
- Produces a traditional German-style Oktoberfest beer in a convenient 1-gallon batch.
- Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars with positive reviews highlighting its fun and educational brewing experience.
Cons:
- Packaging issues have led to cracked glass components; improved packaging could be beneficial.
- Some tools, like thermometers and racking systems, may be less user-friendly and could be upgraded for ease of use.
- Bottles and caps are sold separately, adding extra steps for the user to gather all necessary supplies.
Craft Beer Making Kit, 4 Gallon DIY Home Brew Set
Aspiring home brewers who want a straightforward, all-in-one solution will find the Craft Beer Making Kit, 4 Gallon DIY Home Brew Set, perfect for jumping into brewing without needing extra equipment. This complete kit includes everything you need—fermentation container, bottles, ingredients, and accessories—making the process simple and accessible. It offers Canadian Blonde and Octoberfest Lager flavors, allowing you to personalize your brew. With the ability to produce 4 gallons in less than 30 minutes, and a second refill included for multiple batches, it’s ideal for quick, repeated brewing. You’ll have fresh, homemade beer ready in just 3-4 weeks.
Best For: home brewing enthusiasts and beginners seeking an all-in-one, easy-to-use kit to craft their own beer at home with minimal equipment.
Pros:
- Complete set with everything needed for brewing, ideal for beginners and experienced brewers alike
- Produces 4 gallons of beer in less than 30 minutes using hopped malt extract for quick results
- Includes flavors like Canadian Blonde and Octoberfest Lager, allowing for personalized brewing experiences
Cons:
- Limited to the flavors included in the kit, may require additional ingredients for variety
- Requires 3-4 weeks for beer to be ready for consumption, which might be longer than some home brewers prefer
- The size and weight may be less suitable for those with limited space or mobility issues
BrewDemon Craft Beer Brewing Kit with Bottles
For homebrewers seeking an easy-to-use kit that delivers consistent, high-quality beer, the BrewDemon Craft Beer Brewing Kit with Bottles is an excellent choice. It includes a 2-gallon conical fermenter with bottles, featuring a patented pro-style design that simplifies bottling and reduces sediment. The kit comes with all necessary components, including bottles, ingredients, and no-rinse sanitizer, making the process straightforward. With quick recipes like One Evil Pilsner, you can brew and enjoy fresh beer in about two weeks. Users love the kit’s ease of use, repeatable results, and the ability to customize flavors, making brewing fun and accessible for all skill levels.
Best For: homebrewers of all skill levels who want an easy, quick, and high-quality brewing experience with customizable flavors.
Pros:
- Simplifies brewing process with a patented pro-style fermenter and no-siphon bottling
- Produces consistent, full-flavor beer in about two weeks
- Includes all necessary components and ingredients, making it beginner-friendly
Cons:
- Shipping costs for starter kits can be high
- Some users experience longer carbonation times or off-flavors with certain recipes
- Preferring all-grain brewing may lead to better flavor, as extract brewing can be limiting
Brewers Best Home Brew Beer Ingredient Kit – 5 Gallon (Mexican Cerveza)
If you’re new to home brewing and want a straightforward way to craft authentic Mexican Cerveza, the Brewers Best Home Brew Beer Ingredient Kit is an excellent choice. This 5-gallon kit includes all the ingredients you need to make a crisp, straw-colored beer with a balanced, lightly hopped flavor. The addition of lime peel gives it a citrus aroma and invigorating taste, perfect for hot days. The brewing process is rated as easy, making it ideal for beginners or those seeking quick, satisfying results. Just follow the simple instructions, and you’ll have a flavorful Mexican Cerveza ready to enjoy in no time.
Best For: home brewing beginners and enthusiasts looking for an easy, authentic Mexican Cerveza recipe with minimal fuss.
Pros:
- Simple and straightforward brewing process suitable for beginners
- Produces a crisp, refreshing Mexican Cerveza with authentic flavor and aroma
- Includes all necessary ingredients for a 5-gallon batch, making it convenient
Cons:
- Does not include alcohol, requiring users to have their own fermentation setup
- Limited flavor customization options beyond the lime peel addition
- May require additional equipment not included in the kit for brewing and bottling
Pacific Coast IPA Beer Ingredient Kit
The Pacific Coast IPA Beer Ingredient Kit is perfect for home brewers looking to craft a flavorful, West Coast-style IPA with ease. It features Pacific Northwest hops that deliver tropical and citrus notes, balanced by a medium-light maltiness. With an IBU range of 63-67, the beer offers moderate bitterness and complex hop flavor. Designed for simplicity, this kit yields five gallons of well-balanced, aromatic beer and is suitable for beginners. It incorporates hardy bitterness early in the brewing process and late hop additions to enhance flavor. Note, it doesn’t include alcohol, so you’ll add your preferred spirit after fermentation.
Best For: home brewers seeking an easy-to-make, flavorful West Coast-style IPA with tropical and citrus hop character.
Pros:
- Simple brewing process suitable for beginners
- Uses Pacific Northwest hops for authentic flavor profile
- Produces a well-balanced, aromatic 5-gallon batch
Cons:
- Does not include alcohol, requiring additional spirits post-fermentation
- Limited to 5 gallons, which may not suffice for larger gatherings
- Slightly moderate bitterness range may not appeal to all preferences
BrewDemon Premium Beer Kit with Bottles
Crafting clear, great-tasting beer at home becomes effortless with the BrewDemon Premium Beer Kit with Bottles, especially for those who want a convenient, mess-free brewing experience. The kit features a unique conical fermenter that keeps sediment below the bottle filling valve, ensuring your beer remains clean and free of particles. It includes 1-gallon bottles and a filling valve, so you can skip siphoning and fill bottles easily. With premium recipes from New Zealand—like Pilsner, Stout, and Pale Ale—you get authentic flavors. Plus, you can brew in just 30 minutes, making home brewing quicker and simpler without sacrificing quality.
Best For: homebrewers seeking a quick, easy, and mess-free way to craft high-quality, authentic beer with minimal equipment and clean results.
Pros:
- Unique conical fermentation system ensures clear beer with sediment settling below the bottling valve.
- Includes 1-gallon bottles and filling valve, eliminating siphoning and simplifying the bottling process.
- Offers premium, authentic New Zealand recipes like Pilsner, Stout, and Pale Ale for great-tasting beer.
Cons:
- Limited to 1-gallon batch sizes, which may not suit those wanting larger quantities.
- Might require additional ingredients or customization for advanced brewers.
- The kit’s specialized equipment may have a learning curve for complete beginners.
Craft A Brew DIY Root Beer Home Brewing Kit
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hobbyist, the Craft A Brew DIY Root Beer Home Brewing Kit makes it easy to create delicious, traditional root beer right at home. It lets you brew four liters of frothy, authentic root beer in just hours, perfect for family fun or a special treat. The kit includes high-quality ingredients like spices, roots, berries, barks, and sweeteners, plus all necessary supplies like a funnel and carbonation caps. Easy-to-follow instructions guide you through the process, making it a fun, educational experience. Crafted in the U.S., it emphasizes quality and sustainability, giving you a full-bodied, creamy soda with every batch.
Best For: home brewing enthusiasts of all levels looking to craft authentic, non-alcoholic root beer easily and enjoy a fun, educational activity.
Pros:
- Complete kit with high-quality ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions for a successful brewing experience
- Produces four liters of rich, frothy, traditional root beer in just a few hours
- Emphasizes quality, sustainability, and educational value, making it suitable for beginners and hobbyists alike
Cons:
- Limited to non-alcoholic root beer, not suitable for those seeking alcoholic craft beverages
- Requires some basic kitchen tools (like a funnel) and space for fermentation and bottling
- Price may vary and could be higher compared to buying pre-made soda, depending on market fluctuations
BrewDemon Beer Making Kit with Bottles
If you’re new to homebrewing and want a straightforward way to produce high-quality beer, the BrewDemon Beer Making Kit with Bottles is an excellent choice. Its patented conical fermenter ensures consistent results by eliminating sediment, resulting in cleaner, better-tasting beer. The kit includes bottles and a filling valve, making bottling simple and mess-free without siphoning. Recipes are crafted in New Zealand’s Speight’s brewery, like the balanced American Prophecy Ale. The system is user-friendly, requiring minimal equipment, and allows for flavor experimentation with secret ingredients like honey or fruit. Overall, it’s an accessible, reliable kit perfect for beginners enthusiastic to craft their own brews.
Best For: beginners and homebrewers looking for an easy, reliable way to produce high-quality beer with minimal equipment and straightforward instructions.
Pros:
- Easy to use with clear instructions, suitable for novices
- Patented conical fermenter eliminates sediment, ensuring cleaner beer
- Includes bottles and filling valve for simple, mess-free bottling
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to other homebrewing kits, especially when factoring in additional bottles
- Some components, like gaskets and internal parts, may leak or require replacement
- Limited ability to modify the plastic fermenter for custom features like taps or blow-off pipes
Brewers Best Zombiefest Extra Oktoberfest Ingredient Kit – 5 Gallon
The Brewers Best Zombiefest Extra Oktoberfest Ingredient Kit is ideal for intermediate brewers looking to create a flavorful Oktoberfest beer at home. It’s designed for 5-gallon batches, offering a rich malt profile with light bitterness, perfect for fall celebrations. The kit includes attractive labels for presentation but doesn’t contain alcohol itself. With an ABV of 6.9% to 7.4%, it provides a balanced, big malt character. Many brewers enjoy customizing it with additions like vanilla or sugar crystals to enhance flavor. However, some have experienced packaging issues, such as spilled malt extract, so careful handling is essential. Overall, it’s a versatile kit for those ready to craft a festive brew.
Best For: intermediate homebrewers seeking to craft a flavorful and customizable Oktoberfest beer with a rich malt profile for fall celebrations.
Pros:
- Includes attractive labels for professional presentation
- Provides a balanced malt character with light bitterness, ideal for fall festivities
- Offers customization options like adding vanilla or sugar crystals to enhance flavor
Cons:
- Packaging issues such as spilled malt extract can affect ingredient quality
- Does not contain alcohol, requiring additional ingredients for fermentation
- Recommended for intermediate brewers, so may not be suitable for complete beginners
Craft A Brew Mead Making Kit
The Craft A Brew Mead Making Kit is perfect for beginners who want an affordable, all-in-one setup to start crafting their own mead at home. It includes a 1-gallon glass carboy, airlock, stopper, racking cane, transfer tubing, funnel, yeast, nutrients, sanitizer, and a detailed guide. Priced around $49.95, it offers high-quality, reusable components, making it a cost-effective entry into homebrewing. The process involves mixing honey, water, and yeast, with clear instructions guiding you through fermentation in about four weeks. While some parts may need replacements, overall, the kit delivers a rewarding experience and a chance to customize your mead.
Best For: beginners and homebrewing enthusiasts seeking an affordable, all-in-one kit to craft their own mead at home.
Pros:
- Comprehensive, high-quality, reusable components that provide good value for the price
- Clear, easy-to-follow instructions suitable for first-time brewers
- Encourages creativity with opportunities to customize flavors and experiment with recipes
Cons:
- Some users report issues with certain parts, such as cracked airlocks or clumpy nutrients
- Siphoning can be challenging for beginners without additional tools like an auto-siphon
- Additional costs for ingredients or replacement parts may be necessary for a complete brewing experience
Brewers Best Red Ale Beer Making Kit
Brewers Best Red Ale Beer Making Kit is an excellent choice for homebrewers seeking a straightforward, quality brewing experience. It produces 5 gallons of medium-light, deep red ale with smooth, balanced caramel malts and specialty grains, offering low hop bitterness (IBUs 19-23). The kit includes all necessary ingredients, bottle caps, malt bag, and bottling sugar, making it highly convenient. Many users report consistent, high-quality results with enhanced flavor after proper aging. It’s perfect for beginners thanks to easy-to-follow instructions. Best of all, it delivers great value—about 7 bottles per batch at a fraction of store-bought craft beer prices.
Best For: homebrewers of all skill levels seeking an easy, reliable way to craft high-quality, flavorful red ale at home.
Pros:
- All-in-one kit with ingredients, caps, and bottling supplies simplifies the brewing process
- Produces consistent, high-quality beer with great flavor after proper aging
- Cost-effective, offering about 7 bottles per batch at a fraction of store prices
Cons:
- Some users have experienced issues with damaged cans or batch inconsistencies
- Requires patience for proper aging (2-6 weeks) to achieve optimal flavor
- Limited hop bitterness may not satisfy those seeking a hoppier beer style
Craft a Brew Beer Recipe Kit (Hefeweizen) Home Brewing Supplies
If you’re passionate about crafting authentic German-style beers at home, the Craft a Brew Hefeweizen Beer Recipe Kit is an excellent choice. This refill kit provides all the essential ingredients—dry malt extract, hops, grains, yeast, and a grain steeping bag—designed to produce 5 gallons of invigorating, silky smooth Hefeweizen. It’s perfect for home brewers seeking high-quality, traditional Bavarian wheat beer with consistent results. All components are assembled by hand in Orlando, FL, emphasizing quality and sustainability. With this kit, you can easily continue your brewing journey, enjoying authentic flavors and a seamless process every time.
Best For: home brewers and beer enthusiasts seeking to craft authentic, high-quality German-style Hefeweizen with consistent results and minimal effort.
Pros:
- All-in-one kit with high-quality, authentic ingredients for a traditional Hefeweizen flavor
- Easy to use, making it suitable for both novice and experienced home brewers
- Hand-assembled in Orlando, FL with a focus on sustainability and craftsmanship
Cons:
- Produces approximately 50 servings, which may be too much for small-scale brewers
- Requires additional equipment and space for fermentation and bottling processes
- Limited to the Hefeweizen style; not customizable for other beer types
Craft A Brew Hefeweizen Recipe Kit (1 Gallon)
Craft A Brew Hefeweizen Recipe Kit is perfect for homebrewers who want to craft a high-quality wheat beer with authentic flavors. This 1-gallon kit produces about 12 bottles of smooth, flavorful beer with citrus, clove, and banana notes, ideal for year-round enjoyment. It includes premium ingredients like Tettnang hops, wheat malt extract, specialty yeast, sanitizer, and a grain steeping bag, all assembled in Orlando, FL. Designed for small batches, it’s easy to use with detailed instructions, making it perfect for beginners and experienced brewers alike. Many find brewing fun and rewarding, with professional-quality results that impress friends and family.
Best For: homebrewers seeking a convenient, high-quality small batch kit to craft authentic wheat beer with rich citrus, clove, and banana flavors.
Pros:
- Easy-to-follow instructions suitable for beginners and experienced brewers alike
- High-quality ingredients that produce professional-tasting beer
- Compact size ideal for small spaces and ongoing hobby enjoyment
Cons:
- Higher cost per batch compared to store-bought beer over time
- Requires additional equipment like a fermentation vessel and thermometers for best results
- Limited to a 1-gallon batch, which may not satisfy those wanting larger quantities
Everyday IPA Glass Beer Making Kit, 1 Count (Pack of 1)
The Everyday IPA Glass Beer Making Kit by Brooklyn Brew Shop is perfect for beginners and homebrew enthusiasts who want to craft high-quality, flavorful beer with minimal hassle. It uses fresh, whole ingredients—malted barley, hops, and yeast—similar to professional breweries. You can brew 1 gallon of 6.8% ABV beer in your kitchen, which yields about 9-10 bottles. The kit includes everything you need: fermenter, thermometer, tubing, racking cane, airlock, and cleaning supplies. Its straightforward process makes brewing accessible, even for novices. Plus, the all-grain approach guarantees a fresher, more complex flavor profile with floral grapefruit, bright bitterness, and earthy tangerine notes.
Best For: homebrewers of all skill levels who want to craft high-quality, flavorful IPAs easily in their own kitchen.
Pros:
- Uses fresh, all-grain ingredients for superior flavor and quality.
- Simple, straightforward brewing process ideal for beginners.
- Reusable and durable glass fermenter with comprehensive included supplies.
Cons:
- Does not include additional brewing equipment like a pot or bottles.
- Hand wash only, which may be less convenient for some users.
- Limited to producing 1 gallon of beer per batch, which may not be sufficient for larger groups.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Beer Brewing Kits
When selecting a beer brewing kit, I consider my experience level to find one that matches my skills. I also look at the quality of the equipment and ingredients to guarantee a good final product. Additionally, I weigh ease of use, batch size, and yield to choose a kit that fits my needs and setup.
Brewing Experience Level
Choosing the right beer brewing kit depends heavily on your experience level, as it influences the complexity of the process and the type of equipment you’ll need. If you’re a beginner, look for kits with clear instructions, pre-measured ingredients, and minimal equipment requirements. These kits simplify the process, helping you achieve successful results without overwhelming you. On the other hand, experienced brewers often prefer advanced kits that offer customization options, such as different yeast strains, hop additions, or fermentation techniques. These kits typically involve more complex steps like all-grain brewing or specialty methods, allowing for experimentation and unique flavor profiles. Matching the kit to your skill level guarantees a smoother brewing journey and more satisfying results.
Equipment Quality and Durability
High-quality brewing equipment made from durable materials like stainless steel or BPA-free plastics can considerably improve your homebrewing experience. These materials resist corrosion and wear over time, ensuring your gear stays in top condition through multiple batches. Durable equipment also reduces the risk of leaks, cracks, or malfunctions during fermentation, bottling, and cleaning, which is *essential* for maintaining sanitation and proper fermentation conditions. Well-constructed components, such as airtight seals and sturdy spigots, help keep your brew safe and consistent. Investing in robust tools might seem costly initially, but it pays off by minimizing replacements and repair costs. Overall, the durability of your brewing equipment directly impacts the safety, quality, and repeatability of your homebrew results.
Ingredient Variety and Quality
Investing in durable brewing equipment guarantees your homebrew stays safe and consistent, but equally important is the quality and variety of ingredients you use. High-quality kits focus on fresh, premium ingredients like specialty grains, hops, yeast, and malt extracts, which are essential for delivering rich flavor and reliable fermentation. The variety of ingredients allows me to experiment with different beer styles—lagers, ales, stouts—and customize recipes to my taste. Authentic ingredients, such as specific hop varieties or traditional malts, influence aroma, taste, and overall character. Freshness matters too; well-preserved, sealed ingredients prevent spoilage and off-flavors. A well-rounded selection with clear sourcing details helps guarantee consistent, high-quality results and provides the flexibility to craft unique brews tailored to my preferences.
Ease of Use and Instructions
When selecting a beer brewing kit, ease of use and clear instructions are essential, especially for beginners. I look for kits that provide detailed, step-by-step guidance to simplify the brewing process and boost confidence. User-friendly kits often include pre-measured ingredients and straightforward procedures, reducing mistakes during fermentation and bottling. Visual aids like diagrams or instructional videos help me understand each stage and ensure proper technique. Kits that require minimal equipment and use simplified methods, such as stovetop brewing and no-rinse sanitizers, save time and effort. Well-designed instructions emphasizing sanitation, timing, and temperature control are key to consistent results and avoiding spoilage. Clear, accessible instructions make the brewing experience enjoyable and increase the chances of crafting a quality beer.
Batch Size and Yield
Choosing the right batch size is crucial because it directly affects how much beer you’ll produce and how much equipment you’ll need. Smaller batches, like 1-gallon kits, are perfect for beginners or those with limited space, yielding about 10-12 bottles per brew. Larger batches, such as 5 gallons, produce roughly 50 bottles and require more ingredients, equipment, and room. Keep in mind that your yield estimate depends on bottle size; standard 12-ounce bottles are typical. Understanding your desired quantity helps you plan for the necessary fermentation vessels and ingredient amounts. If you’re just starting out or testing flavors, smaller batches make sense. But if you’re ready for more, larger batches give you more beer per brew, making the process more cost-effective over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Beginner-Friendly Kits Produce Professional-Quality Beer?
Yes, beginner-friendly kits can produce professional-quality beer if you follow the instructions carefully. I’ve tried a few myself, and with patience and attention to detail, they yield impressive results. These kits often come with everything you need and clear guidance, making the process straightforward. While it might take some practice to perfect your craft, starting with these kits is a great way to learn and create beer that rivals those from commercial breweries.
How Long Does the Entire Brewing Process Typically Take?
Like planting a seed that blooms over time, brewing a batch usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks. The first week involves fermentation, where your ingredients come alive, and the following weeks are for conditioning and carbonation. Patience is key here, just like waiting for a garden to flourish. Rushing can compromise flavor, so I recommend giving your brew the time it deserves for the perfect pour.
Are There Customization Options for Flavors and Ingredients?
I love how many brewing kits offer customization options. You can experiment with different hops, malts, and yeasts to create unique flavors tailored to your taste. Some kits even let you add fruits or spices for extra flair. I recommend exploring kits that include flexible ingredient packs or give you the freedom to swap components. It’s a fun way to make your homebrew truly your own!
What Maintenance Is Required for Reusable Brewing Equipment?
I keep my reusable brewing equipment clean by rinsing it thoroughly after each use and using a brewing-specific sanitizer regularly. I also inspect for any signs of wear or residue buildup and replace parts as needed. To guarantee peak performance and prevent contamination, I avoid using harsh chemicals and stick to gentle cleaning routines. Proper maintenance helps me enjoy consistent, great-tasting homebrews every time I brew.
Do Kits Include All Necessary Tools or Require Additional Purchases?
Many brewing kits include all the essential tools you need to start brewing right away, like fermenters, bottles, and basic ingredients. I used one recently, and I was surprised how complete it was. However, some kits might require you to buy extra items like bottles or specialized equipment for advanced brewing. I recommend checking each kit’s contents carefully so you’re fully prepared to craft your perfect brew without surprises.
Conclusion
After exploring these top brewing kits, I realize how a simple hobby can unexpectedly turn into a passion, just like my own journey. Sometimes, the best brews come from a little luck and a lot of love for craft beer. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned homebrewer, these kits are your perfect starting point. Who knows? Your next great brew might just be a kit away, waiting to surprise you when you least expect it.
