Bere Barley: The Ancient Grain Revolutionizing Scottish Gin
In the world of Scottish spirits, a centuries-old grain is making a remarkable comeback. Bere barley, pronounced "bear," is not just any ordinary grain – it's a living piece of Scotland's agricultural heritage now finding its way into some of the country's most innovative gins. Let's explore how this ancient crop is shaping the future of Scottish gin and why it matters to bot distillers and gin enthusiasts alike.
What is Bere Barley?
Bere barley is a six-row landrace cultivated in Scotland for over 1,000 years. This resilient crop has adapted to the harsh growing conditions of northern Scotland, particularly in Orkney, Shetland, and the Western Isles. Its ability to thrive in poor soils and short growing seasons made it a staple grain for generations of Scottish farmers.
The Revival of Bere Barley
By the late 20th century, the barley was nearly extinct, outcompeted by modern, higher-yielding barley varieties. However, a renewed interest in heritage grains and unique flavours has led to its revival. Today, bere barley is preserved and celebrated for its distinctive characteristics and historical significance.
Bere Barley in Scottish Gin
Scottish gin makers are always looking for ingredients to set their products apart, and bere barley has become an exciting addition to their botanical arsenal. Here's why:
Unique Flavor Profile: Bere barley imparts a nutty, slightly sweet flavour to gin, adding depth and complexity.
Terroir: Using bere barley allows distillers to create gins with a true sense of place, reflecting Scotland's agricultural heritage.
Sustainability: By incorporating green barley, gin makers support local farmers and help preserve biodiversity.
Notable Scottish Gins Using Bere Barley
Several Scottish distilleries have embraced bere barley in their gin production:
Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin: This Orkney-based distillery uses bere barley as one of its essential botanicals, celebrating the island's Norse heritage.
Bruichladdich Distillery: While known for whisky, Bruichladdich has experimented with bere barley in its gin production, showcasing its versatility.
The Future of Bere Barley in Scottish Gin
As more distillers discover the unique properties of bere barley, we expect to see an increase in gins featuring this heritage grain. This trend not only produces exciting new flavours but also supports the following:
Agricultural Diversity: Encouraging the cultivation of green barley helps maintain crop diversity, which is crucial for food security.
Rural Economies: Increased demand for beef barley can provide additional income for farmers in remote areas of Scotland.
Sustainable Practices: Man distilleries using beer barley are committed to environmentally friendly production methods.
The resurgence of bere barley in Scottish gin production is more than just a trend – it's a celebration of Scotland's agricultural heritage and a step towards a more sustainable and diverse spirits industry. As gin enthusiasts, we have the opportunity to taste a piece of history while supporting innovative distillers and traditional farming practices. Next time you're browsing for a unique Scottish gin, watch for those featuring beer barley. You'll treat your palate to a distinctive flavour and support the preservation of ancient grain and the communities that grow it.
