Where we explore the process of producing the ingredients from scratch that create quality craft beer - from growing malting barley, harvesting, steeping & germinating the grains, to the drying/kilning process that creates the base malt from which the sweet liquor (called the wort) is extracted. Next is producing speciality malts from grains that give added character and flavor. Locally grown hops and yeast culturing will be be explored, the other two ingredients pivotal in creating delicious flavor and body, to all styles of ales, lagers, porters, and stouts.
First Step - Growing the Barley:
In partnership with a local farmer in Luray, (thanks Jeff!) approximately 1 acre of 2-row malting barley was planted on September 24th, 2012. A barley variety recommended by Virginia Tech and the USDA was used that performed well in Virginia Test Plots in 2011. As you can see, a week later, it has already germinated! This is winter barley that gets planted in the fall, grows through winter, and is harvested in late spring (May/June). Stay tuned for further updates.
