Besides water, the primary ingredient in beer is most typically Malted Barley. To create malted barley, slightly sprouted barley is spread across a perforated wooden floor which is then heated, or smoke is used to heat and kiln-dry the barley creating malt. Technology has evolved such that maltsers are now able to more efficiently kiln greater amounts of barley in less time, but this time honored tradition carries on all across the world.
Including in Oregon, where the Rogue Brewery has just broken ground on their Rogue Malt Floor. John Maier, Rogue’s Brewmaster plans to develop 4 to 6 varieties of malt to be used in Rogues beers and whiskeys. I am sure that this will lead to the release of several fresh new beers from Rogue, and I can’t wait to taste what John produces!