In Alberta, Canada, the 2024 harvest season has commenced amidst less than ideal weather conditions. The crop, while not perfect, is an improvement from previous years such as 2021. Sterling Hilton, the president of Origin Malting & Brewing Co., remains unfazed by the challenges. Coming from a long line of farmers, Hilton and his family manage a substantial 17,000 acres of land. Despite supplying malting barley to global companies, the Hilton family reserves the best barley from about 1,000 acres for their local clientele.
Origin Malting & Brewing Co. was established in 2017 as a result of the Hilton family’s decision to vertically integrate and create value-added products. Unlike many other breweries, Origin is one of the few in North America that manages the entire process from growing barley to brewing beer. The dissolution of a marketing company enabled the Hiltons to directly connect with their end consumers, a pivotal turning point for the family business.
The shift towards craft beer presented a new opportunity for the Hilton family. Their encounter with breweries like Lagunitas, which used their barley in their beer, provided valuable feedback and appreciation. This newfound connection with craft beer enthusiasts inspired the Hilton family to establish a presence in Strathmore, setting up a malthouse and brewery. The community’s celebration of agriculture and direct interaction with customers fueled their passion for the project.
Agricultural Integration in the Craft Beer Industry
Origin Malting & Brewing Co. produces a range of beers, including seasonal variations, all crafted from barley grown on the Hilton family farm and malted by Origin. Furthermore, they supply malt to around 40 other craft breweries, promoting the concept of supporting local agriculture and ensuring ingredient traceability. Origin’s tagline “We grow beer” encapsulates their commitment to connecting beer enthusiasts to the origins of their brew.
While Origin Malting & Brewing Co. stands out for their comprehensive approach to beer production, other breweries like Colorado Farm Brewery and Locality Brewing have also embraced agricultural integration. These breweries grow, malt, and brew beer using barley and hops cultivated on their own farms. The trend towards self-sufficiency in sourcing ingredients underscores a growing appreciation for the connection between beer and agriculture in the craft beer industry.
Origin Malting & Brewing Co.’s journey exemplifies the success that can be achieved through agricultural integration in the craft beer sector. By overseeing the entire process from farm to glass, the Hilton family has redefined the relationship between beer production and agriculture. Their commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement serves as a beacon for other breweries looking to establish a deeper connection with their ingredients and consumers. As the craft beer industry continues to evolve, Origin’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring the roots of beer production in the land where it all begins.