I wish northern brewer had better grain prices.
Whats your expectation? I’ve always thought they were pretty comparable to MoreBeer and the rest.
$2.30-3.00 for specialty with no quantity breaks is a high IMO. Most base malts hover around or over $2, again too high IMO. They have a lot of cool malts, just too expensive. Then add the $8 shipping. You’d think those AB contracts would bring better pricing.
Prices at MoreBeer are much more reasonable.
I have so many good options close by, but I shop online at Williams Brewing for those items that aren’t available/convenient locally (things like sinamar and brewtan b).
I buy most of my hops from Yakima Valley Hops.
I buy 95% of my non-hop ingredients and equipment from F. H. Steinbart (local) and sometimes buy base malt (especially imported stuff) from Brew Brothers, who are semi-local.
I like Great Fermentations when ordering online, but I can buy a 50 lb. sack of base malt at my favorite local brewery for $42.50 with no shipping charges since I carry it out.
If you haven’t tried it yet, I would encourage you to contact your local brewery or brewpub and see it they will
help you out. Most want to sell in full sacks though.
MoreBeer as I always have enough to get the free shipping. I also like their expanded AG kits for known commercial beers. I used to buy all bulk grains and hops; but now that I don’t brew as often as I used to, the AG kits are pretty convenient and the quality has always been good for me.
Morebeer is great, if only for the free shipping. Their kits are nice if you are trying a style that you have never brewed. I have also had good luck with AIH and amazon. Amazon is great if you need shipping fast and free or if there is a high probability of a return.