From Root to Pint: The Story of Beer Tree Farm

Beer is undoubtedly one of the most popular alcoholic beverages in the world. Its diverse flavors and styles can satisfy even the pickiest of drinkers. However, not many know where their beer comes from and how it’s made. Beer Tree Farm, a small family-owned hop farm in upstate New York, wants to change that. In this article, we’ll take a look at the story of Beer Tree Farm and how they grow their hops.

The Beginning of Beer Tree Farm

Beer Tree Farm was founded in 2015 by Brendan Harder, a passionate homebrewer, and his wife Carli. Their goal was to grow locally-sourced, sustainably-farmed hops for the beer industry in the Northeast region. The farm started small, with only 200 plants of eight different hop varieties. Today, it has expanded to over 1,200 plants of more than 20 varieties of hops.

Hop Farming at Beer Tree Farm

Hops are the bittering agents that add a distinct flavor and aroma to beer. They’re also responsible for its frothy head and stability. Hops are perennials, meaning they grow back every year from their rootstock. At Beer Tree Farm, they grow their hops using sustainable practices that are kind to the environment. They use no-till farming, which involves planting directly into the soil without disturbing it, to promote healthy soil structure and minimize erosion. They also utilize integrated pest management (IPM) solutions, which rely on natural predators and non-toxic pest control methods, to protect their plants from pests and environmental stressors.

The Harvesting of Hops at Beer Tree Farm

The hop harvest season at Beer Tree Farm begins in late August and can last up to a month. During this time, the hops are ready to be picked and dried. Each plant produces a different yield depending on the variety, which means a lot of hands-on work. Brendan and Carli rely on family and friends to help with the harvesting, and also hire temporary workers. Once the hops are harvested, they’re dried in a temperature-controlled kiln until they reach a moisture level of about 8%. This ensures the hops can be stored for up to a year without losing potency or quality.

From Hop to Beer

After the hops are harvested and dried, they’re ready to be used by brewers. Beer Tree Farm sells their hops to craft breweries all over the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. They work closely with each brewer to determine which varieties of hops will be best for their specific recipe. They supply hops to breweries of all sizes, from small homebrewers to large commercial breweries. By supporting local breweries, Beer Tree Farm is helping to build a sustainable brewing industry that benefits both brewers and consumers.

The Benefits of Local Hop Farming

Hop farming is not just good for the environment, but also for the local economy. Hop farms create jobs, support other local businesses, and bring tourism to the area. Additionally, locally-sourced hops contribute to the unique tastes and flavors in regional craft beers. Drinking a beer made with locally-grown hops means you’re supporting local farmers and businesses, while also getting a one-of-a-kind taste experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is no-till farming?

No-till farming is a planting method that involves planting directly into the soil without disturbing it. It helps to promote healthy soil structure and minimize erosion.

What does IPM mean?

IPM stands for integrated pest management. It’s a pest control method that relies on natural predators and non-toxic pest control methods to protect plants from pests and environmental stressors.

How long can hops be stored?

Hops can be stored for up to a year if they’re dried until they reach a moisture level of about 8%.

What are the benefits of drinking beer made with locally-grown hops?

Drinking beer made with locally-grown hops means you’re supporting local farmers and businesses, while also getting a one-of-a-kind taste experience. Additionally, locally-sourced hops contribute to the unique tastes and flavors in regional craft beers.

Conclusion

Beer Tree Farm is a shining example of how local hop farming can be sustainable, grow the local economy and support local breweries. From the planting of the first hop rhizome, to the harvesting and drying, all the way to supplying local breweries with the freshest of hops, Beer Tree Farm is dedicated to building a better and more sustainable beer industry. By promoting sustainable farming practices and supporting local businesses, the Harder family is showing that great beer can be grown straight from the root to the pint.