The Craft Maltsters Guild, established in 2013 with just eight member malthouses, has seen significant growth over the past decade. Today, the Guild proudly boasts 110 member malthouses, primarily located in North America, but with a global reach. While the Guild acknowledges that there are numerous small malthouses that have yet to join, it is evident that craft malt production has become a thriving industry in recent years.
Craft malt has gained momentum as a direct result of the expansion of craft breweries and distilleries. According to Steve Kurowski, the executive director of the Guild, these smaller-scale businesses prefer to support local suppliers. Craft breweries and distilleries prioritize working with craft maltsters who are attentive to their needs and agile in meeting customer demands. This emphasis on local collaboration has fueled the growth of the craft malt sector.
The emergence of small maltsters, who source raw grains such as barley, wheat, rye, and corn from local farmers, has implications beyond the production of beer and spirits. Unlike large malthouses, small maltsters can engage with a variety of farmers across different regions in the United States. This decentralized approach promotes crop diversity, reducing monocropping practices and fostering healthier soil conditions. By incorporating malting barley into their crop rotations, farmers can enhance their revenue streams and contribute to more sustainable agricultural practices.
Small maltsters play a pivotal role in supporting local farms, advocating for sustainable farming practices, and strengthening community ties. By diversifying crop rotations and encouraging the cultivation of specialty barley varieties suited to specific regional climates and soil conditions, craft maltsters contribute to agricultural resilience. This diversification not only safeguards against crop diseases and fungi but also enriches the overall soil health, benefiting all crops in the long run.
Craft Malt Month Celebration
Craft Malt Month, observed in September, serves as a platform for the Craft Maltsters Guild to showcase the accomplishments of small malthouses and local farmers. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the unique contributions of craft malt to the brewing industry and underscore the importance of supporting artisanal malt production. By highlighting the role of craft malt in promoting sustainability, crop diversity, and community engagement, Craft Malt Month celebrates the spirit of innovation and collaboration within the craft brewing community.