In 2013, the Craft Maltsters Guild was established with just eight member malthouses. Fast forward to the present day, and the Guild has expanded to include 110 member malthouses, predominantly located in North America, but with contributions from around the globe. Despite not having an exact count, the Guild acknowledges the existence of numerous small malthouses that have yet to join the organization. This growth over the past decade highlights the emergence of craft malt as a significant industry.
The surge in craft breweries and distilleries has played a pivotal role in the increasing popularity of craft malt. Steve Kurowski, the executive director of the Guild, emphasized the symbiotic relationship between these small businesses and craft maltsters. Craft breweries and distilleries, being proponents of supporting local businesses, prefer working with craft maltsters who are attuned to their needs and responsive to their requests. This preference stems from a mutual dedication to fostering local economies and promoting sustainable practices within the industry.
Small maltsters differ from large-scale malthouses in their sourcing practices and production methods. By procuring raw grain from local farmers in smaller quantities, small maltsters facilitate more diverse crop rotations and reduce monocropping. This approach to sourcing grains leads to healthier soil conditions, benefiting not only brewing grains but all crops in the agricultural ecosystem. Furthermore, the flexibility of small maltsters to work with farmers across various regions promotes crop diversity and resilience against diseases and fungi.
Promoting Sustainability and Community Connection
The collaboration between craft maltsters and local farmers extends beyond economic benefits to include environmental sustainability and community engagement. By encouraging farmers to incorporate malting barley into their crop rotations, craft maltsters contribute to enhancing soil health and promoting sustainable farming practices. This diversification of crops benefits the soil by balancing nutrient levels and reducing the risk of soil depletion. Additionally, the close relationship between maltsters and farmers fosters a stronger sense of community and support for local agriculture.
September marks Craft Malt Month, a dedicated initiative by the Craft Maltsters Guild to spotlight the contributions of small malthouses and local farmers. This annual celebration serves to raise awareness of the craft malt industry, its commitment to sustainability, and the importance of supporting local businesses. Craft Malt Month provides a platform for showcasing the innovative practices and collaborative efforts that are reshaping the brewing and distilling landscape.
The rise of craft malt represents a sustainable revolution within the brewing industry, driven by a shared commitment to local sourcing, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. As the Craft Maltsters Guild continues to grow and advocate for the value of craft malt, it underscores the transformative potential of small-scale production and the positive impact it can have on the broader agricultural sector. Craft malt is not just a trend but a movement towards a more sustainable and interconnected brewing ecosystem.
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