Dive into the world of craft malt, regional ingredients, and sustainable agriculture as we chat with Brad Humbert, owner of Bear Branch Malt in Maryland. Discover how local grains and farming practices shape the beer landscape in the Mid-Atlantic.

Main Topics:

• The journey of local and craft malting in Maryland
• Bridging agriculture and brewing through regional ingredients
• Sustainability and farm-to-brew relationships
• Challenges and opportunities for grain and hop growers in the Mid-Atlantic
• Upcoming events and collaborations for craft malt month>

In this episode:

• Brad shares his background and the history of Bear Branch Malt, a family farm with roots dating back to 1937
• Discussion on the transition from engineering to craft malting, and love for regional ingredients
• The significance of local grains like Avalon barley and their terroir impact
• How farm practices, including growing soybeans and cover crops, support sustainable malt production
• The relationship between local brewers and maltsters, and the importance of supporting regional grain economies
• Challenges faced by hop growers in Maryland and the scalability issues of hop cultivation
• Strategic growth and expansion plans for Bear Branch Malt, including collaborations with breweries outside Maryland
• Highlighting upcoming craft malt and beer events, Oktoberfest releases, and the return of Sally Gaster
• The importance of community support and supporting local ingredients in the craft beer scene>

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome to the DC Beer Show and introductions

00:14 - Mike Stein shares his drink: Liquidity Aleworks Patapsco Pale

00:34 - Jordan's Canadian triple hazy IPA from Colorado

01:09 - Brandy’s smoked beer from Elder Pine

02:00 - JB’s concentration on Port City Schwarzbier and West Coast IPA

03:01 - Introduction to Bear Branch Malt and Brad’s drink: German-style red lager

03:25 - Brad shares his journey from engineer to maltster and farm-to-brew philosophy

04:46 - The evolution of the farm’s malting system—from half-ton to 8-ton setup

05:10 - Brad discusses what drives his passion for local agriculture and malting

07:01 - Discussion on supporting local malting and regional ingredients

07:32 - Clarifying that Bear Branch Malt sells malt, not animals

08:21 - Connection between spent grain, livestock, and sustainability practices

08:45 - The farm’s integrated approach with cattle, sheep, and crop rotation

09:19 - Potential differences in beef fed on malted grains

09:39 - Local breweries’ use of spent grain and farm practices involving malting byproducts

10:36 - Exciting crops like Avalon barley for next year’s harvest and terroir studies

11:14 - The farm’s crop cycle, planting seasons, and interesting cover crop experiments

12:08 - The challenge of growing spring vs. winter grains like barley and wheat

14:00 - The competitiveness of malting industry and regional grain support

15:02 - The impact of commodity malt prices and value of local grains

16:11 - The scope of grain farming and malt production in Maryland and neighboring states

16:40 - The scale of craft brewing versus large-scale barley and hop production

17:04 - Industry competition and collaboration among craft maltsters

19:05 - Family farm history and historic ownership since 1937

20:10 - Community and event plans for Craft Malt Month and collaborations

21:17 - Potential for regional hop growing and the limitations faced in the Mid-Atlantic

22:25 - Challenges of growing proprietary hop varieties in Maryland

23:39 - Yields and considerations for hop farming at small and larger scales

25:42 - The significance of regional grain and malt industries across Maryland, DC, Virginia

27:29 - Growth plans for Bear Branch Malt and expansion into neighboring states

28:51 - Collaborations with local breweries like Monument, Union, and Guinness

29:07 - Upcoming events at Other Half and local craft beer highlights

30:36 - The role of cocktails versus beer and local bar culture

31:12 - Celebrating Oktoberfest releases and upcoming beer festivals

33:45 - Sally Gaster returning and upcoming fall events including the World Cup final

34:17 - Closing remarks and support for local ingredients and community engagement

Resources & Links:

 • Bear Branch Malt - Maryland-based craft maltster and farm

Thank you for tuning in! Follow what's happening in the DC scene at DCBeer.com and @dcbeer on social media. Support us at Patreon.com/DCBeer

In this episode of the DC Beer Show, the hosts delve into the recent ups and downs Murphy & Rude Malting has faced, highlighting its journey through near-closure, innovative solutions, and its commitment to local agriculture. Jeff Bloem shares insights on how craft malting is evolving amidst climate challenges, industry camaraderie, and the future of purpose-grown grains.

Main Topics:

• Murphy & Rude’s recent near-closure and subsequent revival
• The impact of climate change on barley farming and malting
• The importance of regional grains and heritage varieties in craft brewing
• Industry camaraderie and healthy competition among malters
• Future visions: grain-focused facilities and purpose-grown crops
• Upcoming events: DC Beer Share and Womxn’s Brew Culture Club

Timestamps:
00:06 - Welcome to the DC Beer Show at DC Beer Across Social Media
00:14 - Mike Stein reviews Mount Vernon Rye Porter and Murphy & Rude malts
00:50 - Brandy shares her Wheatland Spring Stay in the State pills
01:26 - Jeff Bloem introduces his beer choice: Einger Dunkel
02:26 - Jeff discusses balancing Munich malts in Einger Dunkel
04:37 - Murphy & Rude’s recent close call and the emotional roller coaster
05:56 - The grain storage mishap and its impact on malt production
07:14 - Scaling challenges and co-manufacturing struggles
08:51 - Germination failure and its effect on production viability
10:02 - The emotional decision to nearly shut down
11:11 - Murphy & Rude’s second chance via sustainable reorganization
12:12 - Plans to support homebrewers and grain store accessibility
13:33 - Murphy & Rude's regional presence and community impact
14:26 - Transition to collaborative brewing with Chili Hollow
15:27 - The importance of regional hops and malts in craft beer
16:04 - Industry camaraderie among maltsters—rivalry vs. collaboration
17:20 - The evolution of craft malting from basement startups to scaled operations
18:52 - The balance of competition and camaraderie in the industry
21:13 - Impacts of drought and climate change on mid-Atlantic barley
22:27 - Harvesting strategies and weather considerations in Virginia
24:27 - The influence of climate change on growing seasons and pests
26:31 - Jeff praises local malts and discusses the future of heritage grains
28:56 - Ideas for purposefully grown grains and supporting regional agriculture
30:11 - Infrastructure needs for a non-commodity grain market
33:17 - The importance of local malt in breweries and how consumers can support
34:10 - Upcoming community events: DC Beer Share and Women’s Brew Culture Club
35:21 - SnallyGaster festival and celebrating craft beer milestones
36:25 - Closing remarks and encouragement to appreciate local maltsters

Resources & Links:

• Murphy & Rude Malting
• Common Grain Alliance
• Chilly Hollow Brewing
• Bear Branch Malt

After two decades in the brewhouse, Kristi Mathews Griner quit drinking and became, in her own words, an NA beer snob. She joins Jake, Brandy, and Jordan to argue that non-alcoholic beer has finally gotten good and to explain how brewers are achieving it with newer yeast strains, hotter mashes, and smaller batches.

Kristi started waiting tables at Hops Grill & Brewery in Alexandria in 2002 and worked her way into the brewhouse, eventually leading brewing operations at Capital City and serving as technical brewer at Beltway, where she brewed contract batches for Grimm and others. Along the way, she watched the Virginia beer scene grow roughly fivefold before the boom collapsed back toward the brewpub model it started with.

She's blunt about the haze craze. She was "very begrudging," she says, and still kind of is, though she'll happily praise a haze that earns its place. She's also full of stories, including the time Charlie Papazian tasted her Pilsner at Savor and nearly talked himself into moving to Leesburg to drink it all the time.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• Go Brewing (Naperville, IL) — "The Story" DIPA and their pilsner
• Sierra Nevada Trail Pass
• Athletic Brewing
• Other Half "All-N-All"
• Wheatland Spring (Liberty Estate Ale, Consequent)
• Bottle Logic (Recursion IPA)
• Grimm Artisanal Ales;

UPCOMING DCBEER EVENTS:

• Urban Garden Brewing grand opening on Juneteenth — DC's first Black woman-owned brewery, with a ribbon cutting around midday
• Women's Brew Culture Club in July: a mahjong night at Lucky Danger and an event at Diamondback Brewing
• July beer share at Other Half on Sunday, July 1

Thank you for tuning in! Follow what's happening in the DC scene at DCBeer.com and @dcbeer on social media. Support us at Patreon.com/DCBeer

Dive into a fascinating discussion with hosts and brewers exploring the rich history of American beer. From historic recipes to modern collaborations, this episode highlights the enduring spirit of brewing in the United States and the power of beer to connect communities and preserve tradition.

Key Topics:

• The revival of 18th-century brewing recipes, including Martha Washington's rules for brewing and hand-measured ingredients
• Collaboration between modern breweries like Dynasty, Mount Vernon, and Chilly Hollow to recreate historical beers
• The significance of local ingredients and sourcing authentic regional barley varieties like six-row malt
• The impact of historic hops such as Liberty and Cluster in recreating authentic colonial-style brews
• How breweries are making historic styles accessible today with modern techniques and styles like table beer
• The importance of community events, beer shares, and collaborations that celebrate American beer history
• The effort to release historic recipes online, encouraging breweries nationwide to participate in a movement honoring our brewing past
• The role of beer in cultural heritage, including its connection to the American Revolution and local history

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and social media shout-outs
 00:13 - Brandy's favorite DC IPAs and local beer shout-out
 01:00 - Mike shares about Dovetail Pills, brewed with German malt and hops
 01:21 - Announcement of Declaration from DC Brau, a 5% sunny pale ale
 01:45 - Favio Garcia introduces Eckhardt's Dark Czech Lager from Mike’s recommendation
 02:11 - Pete Jones discusses Music Remembered, a peach sour from Miesa Blenderie
 02:26 - Brandy raves about Miesa's smoked peach beer and its unique qualities
 03:16 - Transition to brewing at Chili Hollow in Berryville
 03:29 - Favio explains the brewing location and historic context of Chili Hollow
 04:13 - The collaboration with Chris Jakes and the history of Dynasty Brewing
 05:06 - Pete and Mike find and adapt historic recipes from 18th-century texts
 05:51 - Using Martha Washington’s cookbooks and historical measures in brewing
 07:14 - Converting old measurements and sourcing ingredients locally
 08:55 - Challenges of translating 18th-century brewing instructions and methods
 10:40 - Sourcing historical yeast strains and malt varieties (like six-row barley)
 13:15 - The history of collaborations between Lost Lodgers and breweries like Rocket Frog and Quattro Goombas
 14:44 - The inspiration behind brewing historic pale ales and bitters
 15:35 - Partnership with Mount Vernon and the importance of local ingredients
 16:02 - How historical recipes are adapted to modern brewing and local ingredients
 17:02 - Celebrating five years of collaboration with Mount Vernon and local breweries
 18:01 - The significance of recipes like Virginia Porter and the influence of colonial brewing laws
 19:08 - Innovating with ingredients like rosemary and making historic styles accessible
 20:01 - Pete’s longstanding partnership with Right Proper and their historic brewing projects
 21:15 - The enduring timelessness of brewing heritage and the importance of community support
 23:48 - Celebrating new breweries and the future of American beer including the first woman and Black-owned brewery in DC
 26:49 - The cultural and historical importance of styles like table beer and the diversity of brewing traditions
 33:46 - The ongoing project of releasing historic recipes and engaging breweries nationwide
 34:33 - The significance of hops like Liberty and the collaboration with regional hop growers
 36:11 - Closing remarks and encouragement to support local breweries and historical brewing initiatives

Resources & Links:

• Dynasty Brewing
• Chilly Hollow Brewing
• Lost Lagers
• Right Proper Brewing
• Wheatland Spring

Additional:

• Stay tuned for the online release of historic recipes from Martha Washington and others—encouraging a broader movement to brew and celebrate America's brewing past
• Join the upcoming beer share event at Franklin Hall on June 18th and participate in the Land Beer Fest trip

Cheers to celebrating history through beer and supporting local, heritage-driven brewing initiatives!

Thank you for tuning in! Follow what's happening in the DC scene at DCBeer.com and @dcbeer on social media. Support us at Patreon.com/DCBeer

Explore the intersection of farming, community, and craft beer with Bonnie and John from Wheatland Spring. This episode highlights their sustainable farming practices, innovative brewing, and the meaningful community events they host, emphasizing the importance of terroir and local support in beer production.

Main topics:

• The farm's history and regenerative agricultural practices
• The philosophy behind estate brewing and terroir in beer
• The annual Land Beer Fest and Oktoberfest celebrations
• The impact of small-scale maltsters on local brewing
• Community engagement and the future of Wheatland Spring

In this episode:

• Bonnie and John share the background and mission of Wheatland Spring, founded on the principles of regenerative agriculture and small farm support
• The hosts and guests discuss their approach to making beer with a sense of place, emphasizing terroir and the uniqueness of estate-grown ingredients
• Details about the Land Beer Fest, including the new Liberty estate beer, celebrating the US 250th anniversary
• The importance of supporting local maltsters like Murphy and Rood, and how the upcoming change affects their supply chain
• The community-building aspects of Wheatland Spring, from farm weddings to festivals and local collaborations
• Their vision for preserving farmland and maintaining the farm as a retreat within reach for future generations
• Insights into the planning and execution of their events, including German-inspired Oktoberfest
• The significance of supporting small businesses and the local economy through intentional brewing practices

Resources & Links:

• Wheatland Spring Farm
• City Brew Tours

Connect with Bonnie and John:

• Wheatland Spring on Instagram
• Wheatland Spring on Facebook

Join the conversation and support local brewing, farming, and community in Virginia. Cheers to Wheatland Spring’s mission of sustainability, terroir-driven beer, and community connection!

Thank you for tuning in! Follow what's happening in the DC scene at DCBeer.com and @dcbeer on social media. Support us at Patreon.com/DCBeer

In this lively episode of the DC Beer Show, we highlight Atlas Brewing's recent gold medal win at the World Beer Cup for their Bullpen Pilsner. Join us as we explore the brewing process, innovation, and growth of Atlas across DC and Virginia, along with industry challenges and brewing tips.

Main Topics:

• Atlas Brewing’s journey from Ivy City to Anacostia and nostalgic reflections
• The story behind their award-winning Bullpen Pilsner and canning practices
• Innovation with recipe adaptations and new brewing equipment
• Industry challenges: capacity, competition, and market trends
• Tips for brewing, packaging, and entering competitions
• Community engagement and upcoming events in the DC brewing scene

Key Insights:

• Atlas's transition to a larger brewery in Anacostia increased capacity from 3,500 to nearly 10,000 barrels annually.
• The brewery’s success at the World Beer Cup was driven by meticulous canning practices and recipe consistency.
• Usage of California Common yeast in their Pilsner was born out of necessity, resulting in a versatile, high-quality beer.
• The crew emphasizes constant iteration, recipe experimentation, and leveraging equipment improvements to enhance quality.
• Industry headwinds include industry saturation and emerging beverage trends, but growth opportunities remain in regional markets.

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Eamoni Collier, founder and owner of Urban Garden Brewhouse, a pioneering Black-owned brewery in Washington DC. Discover how her passion merges ancient brewing traditions with modern craft, creating a space that’s about community, healing, and cultural storytelling.

In the heart of Washington DC, a trailblazing Black woman-owned brewery is finally opening its doors. Urban, innovative, and inspired by ancient traditions, Urban Garden Brewhouse isn't just creating fantastic, floral-infused beers; it's rewriting the story of community, healing, and cultural heritage through craft beverages. If you've ever wondered what happens when terroir meets tradition, this episode is your front-row seat to the journey. 

Founder and owner Eamoni Collier shares her inspiring story, from the highs of celebrating 15 years of brewing to the heart-wrenching lease setbacks, and how resilience, community love, and ancestral inspiration helped turn obstacles into opportunities. Discover how her background working at legendary Shaw neighborhood spots like Right Proper shaped her vision for a space that marries craft beer with soul food, music, and history. It’s a celebration of black-owned businesses, cultural storytelling, and community-building, all wrapped into one vibrant vision.

• Urban Garden Brewing’s mission and unique inspiration from ancient brewing traditions
• The significance of community, collaboration, and storytelling in building a new cultural space in DC
• The journey through setbacks and opportunities, including relocating to a historic Shaw neighborhood spot
• The upcoming grand opening of Urban Garden Brewhouse with a full kitchen, bar, and curated beer and food programs
• Collaborations with local breweries and community organizations to foster a vibrant, inclusive craft scene
• The role of music, history, and cultural homage in shaping the vibe of Urban Garden
• The importance of gender and racial representation in the craft beer industry

Eamoni’s journey exemplifies resilience and a deep commitment to community and cultural storytelling through craft beer. Her innovative approach to ingredients and her plans for a vibrant, inclusive space align with a broader movement toward diversity and heritage in the brewing industry.

In this episode, Tony Prebula reflects on nearly a decade of running Saints Row, sharing insights into the challenges of small business ownership, community building, and the emotional journey of closing a beloved brewery and taproom. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about craft beer, family, and what’s next.

• Tony’s journey from opening Saints Row in Rockville to relocating in Gaithersburg
• The importance of community, friendships, and local support in the craft beer industry
• The challenges faced by small breweries during COVID-19 and economic shifts
• Balancing family life with the demanding brewery business
• The creative process in developing innovative beers and maintaining quality
• Celebrating special events like Lagerfest, open houses, and community gatherings
• The emotional impact of closing Saints Row and what’s ahead for Tony
• The collaboration and camaraderie among local breweries
• Highlights of upcoming events: Lagerfest and the farewell open house

Upcoming Events:

• Lagerfest at Saints Row - April 18th
• Ladies’ Night at Saints Row - April 29th
• Farewell Open House - May 2nd

Join us to celebrate Tony’s impactful journey, enjoy local beers, and share your favorite Saints Row moments. Cheers to community, craft, and new beginnings!

Thank you for tuning in! Follow what's happening in the DC scene at DCBeer.com and @dcbeer on social media. Support us at Patreon.com/DCBeer

On this episode of the DC Beer Show, we dive into the stories behind innovative collaborations and the art of brewing with purpose.

Discover how Third Hill Brewery’s owner, Jason Sliter, and head brewer, Matt Cronin, are pushing boundaries with techniques like decoction mashing and smoked yeast reuse, creating beers that surprise even the most seasoned palates.

We break down their latest brew, There Might Be Sirens, a Helles with a twist—infused with subtle smoked character from a German helles yeast process borrowed from Silver Branch, proving that good innovation isn’t just about flavor, but community too.

You'll learn about the collaborative spirit that built Third Hill to a vibrant hub where local homebrewers get their shot at the big leagues through competitions and hands-on brewing experiences.

Perfect for craft beer lovers craving fresh ideas and community-minded brewers seeking inspiration, this episode unlocks the secrets to making beer that’s not just consumed, but celebrated. Whether you’re a homebrewer, a seasoned aficionado, or just beer-curious, you’ll walk away with a new appreciation for craft that’s crafted together.

Join us as we toast to innovation, community, and the future of brewing—because the best beers are built in collaboration. Cheers to breaking molds and building bonds that extend beyond the taproom.

In this episode:

• The story behind Third Hill founder Jason Sliter's transition from homebrewer to brewery owner.
• The technical and creative process of their unique decocted Rauch beer, a collaboration with Silver Branch.
• How Third Hill fosters community, making their brewery a true neighborhood hub.
• Exclusive details on the release of a hazy IPA with complex biotransformation techniques.
• Special shout-outs and upcoming events, including Matt Cronin's farewell party and the third annual homebrew competition.

Resources & Links:

• Third Hill Brewing
• Silver Branch Brewing

Thank you for tuning in! Follow what's happening in the DC scene at DCBeer.com and @dcbeer on social media. Support us at Patreon.com/DCBeer

Join us in this episode as we sit down with Elinor Reina from The Veil Brewing in Richmond. We delve into her journey managing taprooms, the importance of Safe Bars training, community engagement, and upcoming collaborations—plus, get the inside scoop on the Veil's anniversary celebrations.

In this episode:

• Elinor's background working with Trillium and The Veil Brewing
• The significance of Safe Bars training in hospitality
• Strategies for managing multiple taprooms and community initiatives
• The impact of industry decline and how breweries pivot to stay connected
• Details about Veil's 10th anniversary celebration and surprise collaborations
• The importance of supporting diverse communities in craft beer
• How local programming and food partnerships enhance taproom experience
• Future plans for The Veil Brewing's growth and collaborations across regions

Resources & Links:

• Veil Brewing
• Safe Bar Network
• Thornbridge Brewing
• Pink Boots Society
• District Beer Fest - March 7th

Connect with The Veil:

• Veil Brewing on Instagram
  
  

Thank you for tuning in! Follow what's happening in the DC scene at DCBeer.com and @dcbeer on social media. Support us at Patreon.com/DCBeer