Hi Marcia, I wouldn't say the yeasty, alcohol aroma of beer is a bad smell when it comes to sourdough starter. Alcohol is a byproduct of yeast fermentation, so it sounds like you're on the right track. If you find your starter collapses significantly between feedings and you're seeing liquid collecting on the top of your starter (hooch) between feedings, this is a sign that your starter is hungry and needs to be fed more often. Try to feed it when it's at its peak of rising, or just beginning to fall, rather than letting it fall completely between feedings. Feeding at the peak will help to keep the yeast active. I hope this helps! Let us know how it goes. 

Barb

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