Barley

Between the farm and the brewery, much of beer’s flavor is born in the malthouse. Here we journey inside a traditional floor maltings—and inside a kernel of grain—to witness the daily toil and tools that turn a raw cereal into the soul of beer.

The maker of some of California’s most coveted wines discusses what drove him back to beer, and to a particular focus on lager as a way to explore the vibrant flavors of barley varieties.

We all know how profoundly the types of malt we use can change what we brew. Less obvious is how independent brewing is changing how barley itself is being grown—leading, eventually, to exciting new options for brewers.

Ready for Wheat Beer School? Bluejacket head brewer Ro Guenzel connects the dots between the history of wheat and barley, their importance to civilization, and the unique properties they bring to Bavarian-style weissbier.

Unmalted grains such as barley and wheat can add flavor and foam stability, among other benefits. Steven Anan of Archetype Brewing takes us beyond malt to look at brewing with alternative grains and other fermentables.

Seen as a set-in-stone style today, the Irish stout went through many iterations before landing on the beer we recognize today. Synonymous with nitrogenated pours and a country where rounds of pints are encouraged, this humble ale has quite a history.