The DC Beer Show

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 MarylandBridging agriculture and brewing through regional ingredientsSustainability and farm-to-brew relationshipsChallenges and opportunities for grain and hop growers in the Mid-AtlanticUpcoming 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 1937Discussion on the transition from engineering to craft malting, and love for regional ingredientsThe significance of local grains like Avalon barley and their terroir impactHow farm practices, including growing soybeans and cover crops, support sustainable malt productionThe relationship between local brewers and maltsters, and the importance of supporting regional grain economiesChallenges faced by hop growers in Maryland and the scalability issues of hop cultivationStrategic growth and expansion plans for Bear Branch Malt, including collaborations with breweries outside MarylandHighlighting upcoming craft malt and beer events, Oktoberfest releases, and the return of Sally GasterThe importance of community support and supporting local ingredients in the craft beer scene>Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome to the DC Beer Show and introductions00:14 - Mike Stein shares his drink: Liquidity Aleworks Patapsco Pale00:34 - Jordan's Canadian triple hazy IPA from Colorado01:09 - Brandy’s smoked beer from Elder Pine02:00 - JB’s concentration on Port City Schwarzbier and West Coast IPA03:01 - Introduction to Bear Branch Malt and Brad’s drink: German-style red lager03:25 - Brad shares his journey from engineer to maltster and farm-to-brew philosophy04:46 - The evolution of the farm’s malting system—from half-ton to 8-ton setup05:10 - Brad discusses what drives his passion for local agriculture and malting07:01 - Discussion on supporting local malting and regional ingredients07:32 - Clarifying that Bear Branch Malt sells malt, not animals08:21 - Connection between spent grain, livestock, and sustainability practices08:45 - The farm’s integrated approach with cattle, sheep, and crop rotation09:19 - Potential differences in beef fed on malted grains09:39 - Local breweries’ use of spent grain and farm practices involving malting byproducts10:36 - Exciting crops like Avalon barley for next year’s harvest and terroir studies11:14 - The farm’s crop cycle, planting seasons, and interesting cover crop experiments12:08 - The challenge of growing spring vs. winter grains like barley and wheat14:00 - The competitiveness of malting industry and regional grain support15:02 - The impact of commodity malt prices and value of local grains16:11 - The scope of grain farming and malt production in Maryland and neighboring states16:40 - The scale of craft brewing versus large-scale barley and hop production17:04 - Industry competition and collaboration among craft maltsters19:05 - Family farm history and historic ownership since 193720:10 - Community and event plans for Craft Malt Month and collaborations21:17 - Potential for regional hop growing and the limitations faced in the Mid-Atlantic22:25 - Challenges of growing proprietary hop varieties in Maryland23:39 - Yields and considerations for hop farming at small and larger scales25:42 - The significance of regional grain and malt industries across Maryland, DC, Virginia27:29 - Growth plans for Bear Branch Malt and expansion into neighboring states28:51 - Collaborations with local breweries like Monument, Union, and Guinness29:07 - Upcoming events at Other Half and local craft beer highlights30:36 - The role of cocktails versus beer and local bar culture31:12 - Celebrating Oktoberfest releases and upcoming beer festivals33:45 - Sally Gaster returning and upcoming fall events including the World Cup final34:17 - Closing remarks and support for local ingredients and community engagementResources & Links: • Bear Branch Malt - Maryland-based craft maltster and farmThank 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 Thanks to our monthly supporters Chris Sadler Brian Dauernheim Quinten Patterson C Sandoval Gilbert Glickstein Ethan Sapperstein Sean Whipkey Randy Mills Ryan Llalan Fowler Michael Losi Adam Heisenberg Brian Jeff Lucas Micaela Carrazco Lauren Sean Moffitt Anthony Scipione johnna infanti Catherine Ramirez Adam Frank Tyler Lynch Jared Prager Jeff Michael O'Connor Favio Garcia Josh Ellen Daniels Juan Deliz Mike Lastort James Wisnieski Chris Frome Sam Chip Tory Roberts Chris DeLoose Lauren Cary Clifton B Scott Pavlica Greg Antrim jeffrey garrison Alexis Smith Dan Goldbeck Anthony Budny Greg Parnas Frank Chang Kim Klyberg Chris Girardot Alyssa jeffrey katz Andrew MacWilliams Jamie Jackson Meegan Mike Rucki Nick Gardner Amber Farris Sarah Ray Peter Jones Blue2026 Brad Stengel Bill and Karen Butcher Jordan Harvey Stephen Claeys Julie Verratti

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 revivalThe impact of climate change on barley farming and maltingThe importance of regional grains and heritage varieties in craft brewingIndustry camaraderie and healthy competition among maltersFuture visions: grain-focused facilities and purpose-grown cropsUpcoming 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 maltstersResources & Links:Murphy & Rude MaltingCommon Grain AllianceChilly Hollow BrewingBear Branch Malt Thanks to our monthly supporters Chris Sadler Brian Dauernheim Quinten Patterson C Sandoval Gilbert Glickstein Ethan Sapperstein Sean Whipkey Randy Mills Ryan Llalan Fowler Michael Losi Adam Heisenberg Brian Jeff Lucas Micaela Carrazco Lauren Sean Moffitt Anthony Scipione johnna infanti Catherine Ramirez Adam Frank Tyler Lynch Jared Prager Jeff Michael O'Connor Favio Garcia Josh Ellen Daniels Juan Deliz Mike Lastort James Wisnieski Chris Frome Sam Chip Tory Roberts Chris DeLoose Lauren Cary Clifton B Scott Pavlica Greg Antrim jeffrey garrison Alexis Smith Dan Goldbeck Anthony Budny Greg Parnas Frank Chang Kim Klyberg Chris Girardot Alyssa jeffrey katz Andrew MacWilliams Jamie Jackson Meegan Mike Rucki Nick Gardner Amber Farris Sarah Ray Peter Jones Blue2026 Brad Stengel Bill and Karen Butcher Jordan Harvey Stephen Claeys Julie Verratti

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 EPISODEGo Brewing (Naperville, IL) — "The Story" DIPA and their pilsnerSierra Nevada Trail PassAthletic BrewingOther 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 middayWomen's Brew Culture Club in July: a mahjong night at Lucky Danger and an event at Diamondback BrewingJuly beer share at Other Half on Sunday, July 1Thank 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 Thanks to our monthly supporters Chris Sadler Brian Dauernheim Quinten Patterson C Sandoval Gilbert Glickstein Ethan Sapperstein Sean Whipkey Randy Mills Ryan Llalan Fowler Michael Losi Adam Heisenberg Brian Jeff Lucas Micaela Carrazco Lauren Sean Moffitt Anthony Scipione johnna infanti Catherine Ramirez Adam Frank Tyler Lynch Jared Prager Jeff Michael O'Connor Favio Garcia Josh Ellen Daniels Juan Deliz Mike Lastort James Wisnieski Chris Frome Sam Chip Tory Roberts Chris DeLoose Lauren Cary Clifton B Scott Pavlica Greg Antrim jeffrey garrison Alexis Smith Dan Goldbeck Anthony Budny Greg Parnas Frank Chang Kim Klyberg Chris Girardot Alyssa jeffrey katz Andrew MacWilliams Jamie Jackson Meegan Mike Rucki Nick Gardner Amber Farris Sarah Ray Peter Jones Blue2026 Brad Stengel Bill and Karen Butcher Jordan Harvey Stephen Claeys Julie Verratti

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 ingredientsCollaboration between modern breweries like Dynasty, Mount Vernon, and Chilly Hollow to recreate historical beersThe significance of local ingredients and sourcing authentic regional barley varieties like six-row maltThe impact of historic hops such as Liberty and Cluster in recreating authentic colonial-style brewsHow breweries are making historic styles accessible today with modern techniques and styles like table beerThe importance of community events, beer shares, and collaborations that celebrate American beer historyThe effort to release historic recipes online, encouraging breweries nationwide to participate in a movement honoring our brewing pastThe role of beer in cultural heritage, including its connection to the American Revolution and local historyTimestamps: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 initiativesResources & Links:Dynasty BrewingChilly Hollow BrewingLost LagersRight Proper BrewingWheatland SpringAdditional: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 pastJoin the upcoming beer share event at Franklin Hall on June 18th and participate in the Land Beer Fest tripCheers 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 Thanks to our monthly supporters Chris Sadler Brian Dauernheim Quinten Patterson C Sandoval Gilbert Glickstein Ethan Sapperstein Sean Whipkey Randy Mills Ryan Llalan Fowler Michael Losi Adam Heisenberg Brian Jeff Lucas Micaela Carrazco Lauren Sean Moffitt Anthony Scipione johnna infanti Catherine Ramirez Adam Frank Tyler Lynch Jared Prager Jeff Michael O'Connor Favio Garcia Josh Ellen Daniels Juan Deliz Mike Lastort James Wisnieski Chris Frome Sam Chip Tory Roberts Chris DeLoose Lauren Cary Clifton B Scott Pavlica Greg Antrim jeffrey garrison Alexis Smith Dan Goldbeck Anthony Budny Greg Parnas Frank Chang Kim Klyberg Chris Girardot Alyssa jeffrey katz Andrew MacWilliams Jamie Jackson Meegan Mike Rucki Nick Gardner Amber Farris Sarah Ray Peter Jones Blue2026 Brad Stengel Bill and Karen Butcher Jordan Harvey Stephen Claeys Julie Verratti

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 practicesThe philosophy behind estate brewing and terroir in beerThe annual Land Beer Fest and Oktoberfest celebrationsThe impact of small-scale maltsters on local brewingCommunity engagement and the future of Wheatland SpringIn this episode:Bonnie and John share the background and mission of Wheatland Spring, founded on the principles of regenerative agriculture and small farm supportThe hosts and guests discuss their approach to making beer with a sense of place, emphasizing terroir and the uniqueness of estate-grown ingredientsDetails about the Land Beer Fest, including the new Liberty estate beer, celebrating the US 250th anniversaryThe importance of supporting local maltsters like Murphy and Rood, and how the upcoming change affects their supply chainThe community-building aspects of Wheatland Spring, from farm weddings to festivals and local collaborationsTheir vision for preserving farmland and maintaining the farm as a retreat within reach for future generationsInsights into the planning and execution of their events, including German-inspired OktoberfestThe significance of supporting small businesses and the local economy through intentional brewing practicesResources & Links:Wheatland Spring FarmCity Brew ToursConnect with Bonnie and John:Wheatland Spring on InstagramWheatland Spring on FacebookJoin 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 Thanks to our monthly supporters Chris Sadler Brian Dauernheim Quinten Patterson C Sandoval Gilbert Glickstein Ethan Sapperstein Sean Whipkey Randy Mills Ryan Llalan Fowler Michael Losi Adam Heisenberg Brian Jeff Lucas Micaela Carrazco Lauren Sean Moffitt Anthony Scipione johnna infanti Catherine Ramirez Adam Frank Tyler Lynch Jared Prager Jeff Michael O'Connor Favio Garcia Josh Ellen Daniels Juan Deliz Mike Lastort James Wisnieski Chris Frome Sam Chip Tory Roberts Chris DeLoose Lauren Cary Clifton B Scott Pavlica Greg Antrim jeffrey garrison Alexis Smith Dan Goldbeck Anthony Budny Greg Parnas Frank Chang Kim Klyberg Chris Girardot Alyssa jeffrey katz Andrew MacWilliams Jamie Jackson Meegan Mike Rucki Nick Gardner Amber Farris Sarah Ray Peter Jones Blue2026 Brad Stengel Bill and Karen Butcher Jordan Harvey Stephen Claeys Julie Verratti

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 reflectionsThe story behind their award-winning Bullpen Pilsner and canning practicesInnovation with recipe adaptations and new brewing equipmentIndustry challenges: capacity, competition, and market trendsTips for brewing, packaging, and entering competitionsCommunity engagement and upcoming events in the DC brewing sceneKey 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. Thanks to our monthly supporters Chris Sadler Brian Dauernheim Quinten Patterson C Sandoval Gilbert Glickstein Ethan Sapperstein Sean Whipkey Randy Mills Ryan Llalan Fowler Michael Losi Adam Heisenberg Brian Jeff Lucas Micaela Carrazco Lauren Sean Moffitt Anthony Scipione johnna infanti Catherine Ramirez Adam Frank Tyler Lynch Jared Prager Jeff Michael O'Connor Favio Garcia Josh Ellen Daniels Juan Deliz Mike Lastort James Wisnieski Chris Frome Sam Chip Tory Roberts Chris DeLoose Lauren Cary Clifton B Scott Pavlica Greg Antrim jeffrey garrison Alexis Smith Dan Goldbeck Anthony Budny Greg Parnas Frank Chang Kim Klyberg Chris Girardot Alyssa jeffrey katz Andrew MacWilliams Jamie Jackson Meegan Mike Rucki Nick Gardner Amber Farris Sarah Ray Peter Jones Blue2026 Brad Stengel Bill and Karen Butcher Jordan Harvey Stephen Claeys Julie Verratti