One of the best parts of the brewing industry is the encouragement to explore everything that beer can be, and Ross Koenigs takes this to a “high”er level in his book Brewing with Hemp. In this thorough research guide, Koenigs dives deep into the use of hemp in brewing, exploring its history, chemistry, flavor contributions, and regulatory challenges.
Hemp has a fascinating history that is intertwined with agriculture and brewing traditions. Koenigs starts the story by contextualizing hemp as a practical material (ever heard of a thing called ropes? Yup, used to be made of hemp! Made a lot of things easier!) to the modern reemergence as a flavoring and aromatic component. It establishes a sense of respect for the versatility of hemp through human history.
Moving into the chemistry of hemp, Koenigs explains cannabinoids like CBD to terpenes responsible for the distinct aroma. He goes into the nuances of how these compounds interact with brewing ingredients such as malt, hops, and yeast, with practical advice that makes it accessible from homebrewer to master. Included are brewing recipes where hemp is a primary flavor contributor or a subtle accent, creating a thoughtful discussion of the dynamics of these ingredients.
Brewing with hemp doesn’t come without its challenges-particularly around legality and regulation. Koenigs addresses these issues head-on, offering a comprehensive overview of the laws governing hemp use. This section is particularly useful for commercial brewers looking to enjoy the thrill of this ingredient, but concerned about navigating compliance. Koenigs also addresses how to source and handle hemp products to make informed decisions about quality, sustainability, and flavor impact.
Koenigs leans into the lessons he learned at New Belgium Brewing, as well as the experiences of other brewers, about the tangible potential of hemp. Case studies and examples are sprinkled throughout the book, offering inspiration and practical takeaways, encouraging brewers to experiment and innovate in their own way.
As the craft beer industry continues to seek new ways to surprise and delight consumers, ingredients like hemp offer an unusual and exciting avenue for exploration. More than a guide, Brewing with Hemp is a call to action for brewers to embrace the creative potential of unconventional ingredients.
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