Introduction
South Australia is not just a land famed for its wine; it’s also home to some of the world’s finest barley, a crucial ingredient in the art of whiskey making.
This addition to our guide explores how SA’s unique barley varieties contribute to creating distinct and high-quality whiskeys, all while navigating the process of obtaining a liquor licence in the region.
The Role of Barley in Whiskey Making
Barley is the soul of whiskey. Its quality, flavour profile, and sugar content significantly influence the final taste of the whiskey.
South Australia’s Unique Barley Varieties
South Australia boasts several barley varieties that are highly prized in the whiskey-making industry. These varieties offer distinct flavours ranging from rich and nutty to smooth and sweet, providing an
excellent base for a wide range of whiskey profiles.
Schooner
The ‘Schooner’ variety of barley, as grown in South Australia, is a type of grain well-suited to the region’s climatic conditions.
This variety is known for its adaptability to various soil types and its resilience to local weather patterns. Schooner barley typically has a robust growth habit, producing tall, strong stalks that are resistant to ‘lodging’ (falling over).
The grains are of medium size, with a rich golden colour, and are primarily used for malting purposes, making them a popular choice for beer production.
The yield of Schooner barley is generally high, and it is prized for its consistent quality, making it a staple in South Australian agriculture.
Commander
The ‘Commander’ variety of barley, as grown in South Australia, is known for its strong agronomic performance and suitability for the region’s climatic conditions.
It is a popular choice among farmers for its good yield potential and adaptability to various soil types.
This variety often exhibits robust growth with a dense, erect posture, and is characterized by its medium to long, golden-brown grains that are well-suited for malting and brewing purposes.
‘Commander’ barley also shows good resistance to common diseases and pests prevalent in South Australia, making it a reliable choice for consistent crop production.
Compass
‘Compass’ barley, cultivated primarily in South Australia, is a variety known for its strong agricultural performance.
It’s a popular choice among farmers due to its adaptability to the region’s climatic conditions. This variety of barley tends to have a robust growth habit and is often praised for its high yield potential. Additionally, it exhibits good resistance to common diseases, which is a crucial factor for successful cultivation in South Australia’s varied agro-climatic zones.
The grain quality of ‘Compass’ barley is generally high, making it suitable for multiple uses, including animal feed and malting for beer production, depending on the specific requirements of the end-users.
Advantages of Local Barley
Using local South Australian barley not only supports the regional agricultural industry but also gives distilleries a unique selling point. Whiskeys made with local barley can proudly carry the tag of being truly South Australian, appealing to both local and international markets.
Sustainability and Quality
Many South Australian barley farmers are committed to sustainable farming practices, ensuring the highest quality grains are produced with minimal environmental impact. This commitment to sustainability is increasingly important to consumers worldwide.
Incorporating Local Barley in Whiskey Production
1. Selecting the Right Variety
Whiskey makers in SA carefully select barley varieties that best suit their desired flavour profile. The choice of barley can significantly influence the nuances in the whiskey’s taste.
2. The Malting Process
The unique characteristics of South Australian barley continue to shine during the malting process, affecting the colour, aroma, and flavour of the malt.
3. Distillation and Aging
As the barley-derived spirit undergoes distillation and aging, it develops a complexity and depth of flavour influenced by the initial choice of barley.
Image creator: Natalie Mendham Photography
Conclusion
The choice of barley is a critical decision in the whiskey-making process, and South Australia’s exceptional barley varieties offer a unique advantage to local distilleries.
This regional distinction not only elevates the quality of the whiskey produced but also plays a pivotal role in the identity and story of South Australian whiskey brands.
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