Brewski barley began its journey at North Dakota State University (NDSU), where plant breeders developed the experimental line 2ND32184—a project that would eventually become known as Brewski 2‑Row Barley.
At its core, Brewski carries the legacy of Grace, a European 2‑row variety recognized for its exceptionally low beta glucan levels. This trait is highly valued in malting and brewing because it improves filtration and overall brewhouse performance. Grace contributes 50% of Brewski’s genetic foundation, anchoring it with proven quality and consistency.
The other half of Brewski’s lineage is a carefully selected blend of NDSU experimental 2‑row lines, each chosen for specific agronomic strengths:
- Newdale – a Canadian variety known for its malting quality and adaptability.
- Conlin & Bowman – both valued for their drought tolerance, ensuring resilience in challenging growing conditions across the Northern Plains.
- Karl (6‑Row) – strategically introduced to help lower protein levels, balancing Brewski’s profile for optimal malting performance.
This thoughtful combination of genetics reflects the art and science of modern barley breeding. By blending European malting heritage with North American resilience, NDSU created a variety that not only performs well in the field but also delivers consistent, high-quality malt for brewers and distillers.
Behind Brewski’s development lies the vision and dedication of NDSU’s barley breeding program. Their work ensures that growers, maltsters, and brewers alike benefit from varieties that are innovative, reliable, and tailored to the needs of today’s craft industry. Brewski stands as a testament to that commitment—rooted in science, strengthened by collaboration, and crafted for the future of brewing.