Toon Ale Delivered To Your Fridge!

You can now buy Toon Ale online, where ever you are in the U.K. All first orders come with a FREE gift - The Geordie Gizzabit album by Clear Cut. Find Out More...



Barley Malts

Barley malt is to beer as grapes are to wine. It is ideally suited to brewing for many reasons. Malted barley has a high complement of enzymes for converting its starch supply into simple sugars and contains protein, which is needed for yeast nutrition. Of course, one important element is its flavor. There are two types of barley: six-row and two-row.

Generally, six-row barley has a higher enzyme content, more protein, less starch, and a thicker husk than two-row barley. The higher level of diastatic enzymes makes six-row barley desirable for conversion of adjunct starches (those that lack enzymes) during mashing. On the down side, the higher protein content can result in greater break material (hot and cold), as well as possibly increased problems with haze in the finished beer. The husk is high in polyphenols (tannins) that results not only haze, but also imparts an astringent taste.