Malting in Montana

[Mouledousfarm]

Hi,
Just joined the forum to widen my horizons. I've been brewing regularly for just over a year. Made the move to all-grain, last summer. Built a kegerator, with a triple tower. Just started my first batch of home malted wheat beer. I'm interested in hearing from folks who have malted, and built equipment(ie. Malt kiln, malting cabinet, hop oast...etc.). Planted Hops last year, hoping to harvest this summer( Cascades, Nuggets, Libertys).

 

[fifelee]

Welcome. Been wanting to malt myself. I think a micro malt plant in Montana would do really well and could supply all our great brewers. If I wasn't already too busy on the farm I would be looking into a startup. Anyways let me know if you need some grain.

 

[Mouledousfarm]

I like your idea for a small malting co. Since Malteurop will only sell by the pallet, and shipping drives up the price here. What type of barley do you have? I might be interested.

 

[fifelee]

I have merit now and will soon have Moravian. Coors in building a big plant near where I farm (Power), so I will like be raising Coors varieties in the future.

 

[Mouledousfarm]

I'm using AC Metcalfe, 'cause thats what they have at the seed store. they're both 2-row. I don't know if there's a difference. The Moravian 115 I learned is best suited to lager type beers. I make lagers in winter, cause my basement's so cold, ale's in the summer. Does anyone grow 6-row in Montana? I've been researching what it would take to open a small malting operation here, I've had some positive responses. I'm hopeful.:rockin:

 

[fifelee]

Haven't heard of any 6-row, but I haven't really asked around. I'll grow some if you ever need. Let me know how to help your Malting start up. Need water and heat, so would likely have to build near natural gas. Waste water could also be an issue. Want to move? I know the perfect area near Fairfield MT...right where much of Montana's barley is grown.