Abstract: A brewing apparatus for small scale brewing of fermented beverages such as beer and cider and a method of brewing using the apparatus is described. The brewing apparatus includes a single pressurizable vessel in which all the steps of the brewing process can be carried out, including fermentation, carbonation (naturally during fermentation), sediment removal, maturation and draw off. The brewing apparatus includes a safety pressure release system to relieve pressure from within the brewing vessel if the pressure differential between the interior and the exterior of the brewing vessel exceeds a predetermined pressure. The brewing apparatus is configured so it can be easily transported from one location to another. In one embodiment, the brewing apparatus has a scalable lid or hatch which includes all of the necessary components and connections located therein.