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