Chris and The Original 40 Brewing Company have been using Skagit Valley Malts since the first day we became available in San Diego! We asked him a few questions about why he continues to use Skagit Malts.

What inspired you to try Skagit malts? I'm always looking to try new ingredients, especially when they're smaller, craft ingredients, from a family owned company. There's a good variety and after tasting my first sample I knew there was a place for these craft malts in several of our beers.

You’ve used a broad assortment of our products- what has been your favorite use so far? That's hard to say, since I like each one in it's own application. I think I'd say Talisman Pilsner is my favorite to use so far. Super versatile, high extract, and it tastes so damn good. It's a super light pilsner, and checks all the typical boxes, but it has plenty of flavor that translates perfectly into a Hazy IPA, West Coast IPA, Light Lagers, and on down the list. I love making light colored, all base malt West Coast IPAs. Let the hops shine while still having a backbone to carry those big hop flavors.

What is something you’d like to see from us? If I could have one thing that I use frequently it would probably be malted oats. I'm sure the minds at Skagit could find a way to make those extra special, while still giving me all the creaminess I'm used to and a husk to keep things moving.

What’s your desert island beer? Just one? That's tough, I'm gonna go ahead and just give two. Orval for sure, that's an easy one. Second one would be the Alpine Nelson I drank on brewday with Shawn maybe 7-8 years ago. That beer is every good thing about Nelson Sauvin, rye, and the other hop that Nelson showcases. I should preface, not what Nelson is now. You can't make the exact same recipe crop year after crop year, and make the same beer. Some people say you can't remember that far back but those of us who actually can remember just how special that beer was. Those two beers would keep me happy for a lifetime.

Currently, there are six beers on tap at The Original 40 that use Skagit Valley Malts. If you’re in the North Park area, be sure to try:

• Los Cuarenta Mexican Lager

• PBSD Honey Blonde Ale

• A Nice Clear IPA - West Coast IPA

• Playing With 🔥 - Hazy IPA

• Answer: Daily Double - Hazy Double IPA

• Black Is Beautiful - Imperial Stout

Once traveling is safe again, Chris will be on the first flight up to tour the malt house. We look forward to continue working with the good folks at The Original 40!