Water Kefir....what's the deal?

[Guest guest]

I know several members have made it and advocate it, but I really don't

understand what it is or how it works. I was given some starter (delicate little

grains like cooked Cream of Wheat) and set my first batch last week using lime

slices, dried apricots, sugar, molasses, starter and filtered water. I bottled

it last week and will try some today, it sort of smells like mild kombucha or a

weak fruit wine. I'm assuming it has many of the characteristics of a dairy-free

kefir, right? Are there special health benefits? Traces of alcohol? Thoughts?

Will Winter