For those who enjoy a perfectly poured pint but appreciate the comforts of home, the landscape of DIY brewing is undergoing a quiet revolution. The latest entrant promising to democratise craft beer creation is the iGulu F1, an all-in-one home-brewing appliance that aims to make the process as straightforward as using a pod coffee machine.
The Effortless Brewing Process
Designed for simplicity, the iGulu F1 arrives as a comprehensive kit. The core promise is compelling: insert the provided ingredients, add water, and let the machine handle the complex alchemy of fermentation autonomously. The system utilises an RFID reader; users simply scan a card included with each beer kit, and the machine's display—or a companion smartphone app—guides them through the setup.
The smart display then becomes a control centre, showing a countdown to completion (typically around two weeks), alongside real-time data on the beer's temperature and internal pressure. The required ingredients, including malt extract powder, yeast, and hop oil, come pre-measured in each kit, with the flavouring profiles expertly balanced by iGulu beforehand. This removes the guesswork, allowing the machine to perform what the manufacturer describes as the "internal witchcraft" of fermentation.
Quality Results and Practical Considerations
Once the fermentation period concludes, the beer is dispensed via a pub-style tap handle. Each batch can yield up to approximately 18 pints of cold, carbonated beer. To achieve professional-level carbonation, the machine is compatible with ubiquitous SodaStream gas canisters. While the kit is largely complete, testers recommend using mineral water and having sterilising solution on hand for optimal results.
The build quality and intuitive smart features of the iGulu F1 have impressed reviewers, who note it stands out in the growing market of integrated brewers. For enthusiasts wanting to experiment beyond the pre-set kits, the machine also offers a custom brewing function, supported by ingredients from third-party suppliers and online tutorials.
The Major Hurdle: Availability
However, a significant caveat overshadows the innovative technology: severe stock shortages. As of mid-December 2025, the iGulu F1 machine is listed as sold out on the manufacturer's official website and major retailers like Amazon. Prospective buyers may need to hunt on secondary marketplaces such as eBay.
The scarcity extends to the consumable beer ingredient kits. Although stock levels have shown some recovery since the product's initial launch, many of the more appealing flavour variants remain difficult to purchase. This presents a frustrating barrier for a device designed for convenience, turning the quest to own one and keep it supplied into the hardest part of the home-brewing journey.
In summary, the iGulu F1 represents a significant leap forward in accessible, high-quality home brewing, automating a traditionally fiddly process. Yet, its potential is currently limited by supply chain challenges, making it an impressive but elusive appliance for UK consumers eager to craft their own pub-quality pints.
