The purpose of malting is to create these enzymes, break down the matrix surrounding the starch granules, prepare the starches for conversion, and then stop this action until the brewer is ready to utilize the grain. After modification, the grain is dried and the acrospire and rootlets are knocked off by tumbling.

Why is barley malted prior to brewing?

Malted barley, or malt, is the brewer's preferred grain for making beer. In its most basic form, it is barley that has been allowed to germinate by soaking the grain in water. This prepares the starches to be converted into fermentable sugars. ... That is likely because very few brewers still malt their own grain.

Why do we malt grain?

The purpose of the malting process is to transform starches into enzymes and sugars that make the grain much more responsive to fermentation. And, of course, it adds a particular flavor to the whiskey mash. Once the grain arrives at the brewery or distillery, it's crushed and mixed with water to create a mash.