Malt is an essential ingredient in various forms of food and beverage production. Fun fact: humans have been using it for almost 10,000 years, since it was discovered in Mesopotamia, where early societies began cultivating grain. But what is it, exactly, and why do malt drinks taste so good?
The stereotype is that the brewing industry uses malt as the foundation for beer and other fermented drinks, but it’s actually used even more in the creation of non-alcoholic beverages, baked goods, confectionery, and even baby food. Why is it so popular? Because it’s naturally sweet and packed with nutritional benefits.
What is Malt?
Malt is sprouted and dried grain that develops essential enzymes and flavor compounds used in the production of malt-based and other beverages. It is the cornerstone of brewing, obtained through a controlled germination process followed by drying.
The primary grains for malt production are barley and wheat, with barley malt accounting for approximately 90% of the world’s total malt production. Barley is favored by experts for its high enzyme content and balanced composition, and it’s used more widely outside of the alcoholic drinks, than wheat.
Light vs. Dark Malt
There are two main types of malt: light and dark. The main distinction between them is in the drying temperature and duration.
Light malt is dried at lower temperatures (up to 85°C), which preserves delicate flavors and enzymes essential for fermentation. Dark malt, on the other hand, undergoes high-temperature drying (105°C and above), resulting in a rich caramelized flavor and darker color, which contributes to the depth and complexity of many drinks.
How is Malt Produced?
Malting is a multiple-step process, and here’s what it looks like:
- Steeping: First, the grain is soaked in water to reach the desired moisture content, which begins the germination process.
- Germination: Then, over the course of 5–7 days, the grain begins to sprout, producing enzymes that break down starches into fermentable sugars.
- Kilning (Drying): The germinated grain is dried under controlled temperatures, halting the growth process and developing the malt’s final characteristics.
For high quality malt, like that used in the best malt drinks in the UAE, each of these steps is carefully managed to give the drink a particular flavor profile.
How Different Types of Malt Impact Flavor
Different types of malt contribute unique flavors, aromas, and colors to beverages, and each brewer selects what malt they used based on what drink they’re going for.
Base Pilsner Malt Results in A Neutral Flavor
Pilsner malt is the most commonly used malt type. It’s the foundation for many malt-based beverages. It provides a clean, balanced malt profile without overpowering flavors, allowing other ingredients, such as hops or yeast, to come through.
Caramel Malt Adds Sweetness and Color
During the production of caramel malt, the grains undergo caramelization, giving the beverage rich caramel and toffee notes. This malt also contributes to a deeper amber or copper hue, making the drink both taste and look delicious.
Roasted Malt For Dark Varieties
Roasted malt is kilned at high temperatures until it reaches a deep brown color. It gives the drink bold roasted flavors, with notes of coffee and dark chocolate, which are typical for stouts and porters. The intense toasty profile makes it essential for crafting rich, dark beverages.
Smoked Malt For Specialty Brews
Smoked malt is dried over wood smoke — typically beechwood or peat — giving it a distinctive smoky aroma and taste. This type of malt is widely used in traditional German Rauchbier and certain Scottish ales.
Wheat Malt – For Wheat-Based Beverages
Unlike barley malt, wheat malt is made from wheat grains and contributes a signature light tartness and bread-like flavor. It is essential in styles such as Weizen and Belgian wheat drinks, known for their cloudy appearance, creamy mouthfeel, and thick, lasting foam.
Rye Malt – For Unique, Spicy Notes
Rye malt is produced from rye grains and adds a spiciness, dry mouthfeel, and complex earthy flavors. It is used to create unique malt beverages with a sharper, more layered taste profile with great depth.
Health Benefits of Malt
Malt is a great source of nutrients. It is rich in B vitamins, including B1, B2, B3, and B6, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy nervous system and metabolism. Additionally, malt contains important minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus, which contribute to bone health, cardiovascular function, and energy production.
One of malt’s significant benefits is its positive effect on digestion. Thanks to its natural enzymes and dietary fiber, it aids in food absorption and supports a healthy digestive system. Malt is also an excellent energy source, as it contains complex carbohydrates and maltose — components that give the body sustained energy over time.
What’s more, malt supports the immune system. It contains bioactive compounds and antioxidants that help the body protect itself against illnesses. Polyphenols and other antioxidants also contribute to cellular protection, reducing oxidative stress and slowing down aging processes.
Of course, malt isn’t just tasty — it’s also delicious, and drinking malt beverages isn’t akin to eating spinach or broccoli. Malt is what gives many beverages their signature flavor. But why, though? During the malting process, various aromatic and flavor compounds develop, which is what gives malt-based drinks their rich taste and aroma.
Best Malt Beverages in the UAE
You can find some of the world’s best malt beverages in UAE supermarkets (or order them online), both imported and, as of recently, locally brewed. Next time you’re going through the beverage aisle, look for any of these brands or drinks:
MAJLIS
As the first craft HALAL Arabian Ale from the UAE, MAJLIS beverages are brewed using five of the purest malt varieties and organic hops. It is available in several variations, all of which are equally delicious: a classic golden ale, a gluten-free sports version, a rich stout, and a wheat-based malt drink.
The classic golden ale delivers a smooth, balanced maltiness with light hop bitterness, while the gluten-free sports version offers a refreshing alternative for those with dietary restrictions. The stout variation is deep and full-bodied, with rich roasted malt notes reminiscent of coffee and dark chocolate. Meanwhile, the wheat-based malt drink has a velvety texture, subtle fruity notes, and a refreshing finish.
Bier Des Amis
A Belgian brand that sticks to traditional brewing methods, Bier Des Amis is made entirely from Belgian malt and follows classic recipes. It has a balanced malt flavor, a mild sweetness, and a crisp finish — a good example of traditional Belgian-style malt beverages.
Bavaria
Bavaria is a Dutch brand with over 300 years of brewing history. Consider its non-alcoholic lager, which has a light malt sweetness and a clean, refreshing taste. The brand follows traditional European brewing techniques, giving its alcohol-free drinks a familiar lager profile.
A&W
An American brand that makes delicious root beer. A&W’s line includes a malt-based drink flavored with spices, herbs, and vanilla. It has a sweet, slightly creamy taste and is often enjoyed cold or as part of a root beer float.
Bundaberg
Try their ginger beer. This Australian malt beverage producer uses a natural fermentation process with real ginger and malt, which gives the drink a rich, full-bodied flavor.
Malt Beverages Are a Lifestyle Choice, not just Drinks
People are becoming more mindful of quality in every part of their lives—from the food they eat to how they spend their free time. They choose great restaurants, stay active in state-of-the-art gyms, vacation at top resorts, and seek out natural, high-quality products. Malt beverages fit seamlessly into this lifestyle — they’re carefully crafted, made from natural ingredients, and deliver both great taste and benefits.
For many, drinking malt beverages isn’t just about quenching thirst—it’s a conscious choice that reflects their values, personal taste, and even status. It’s about enjoying a drink that aligns with their lifestyle and sharing that experience with others.
One of the malt beverage producers from this list said it best: To care — Drink and Share.
