Washington, D.C. – The Beer Institute, the national trade association for U.S. brewers, beer importers and suppliers, awarded 17 individuals with the coveted BEST IN BREW Honors, which celebrates those who have made an exemplary contribution to their companies and the beer industry.
Darrel has been working with barley farmers for 38 years at RahrBSG and Rahr Malting Co. helping to direct the barley supply chain in the U.S. He has been helping to ensure that the supply chain of high-quality barley to malt stays healthy and intact year after year. This vital part of the beer industry in the U.S. and around the world requires dedication, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt to weather and ever evolving industry needs. Without quality barley, we can't have quality beer.

His dedication to the job has had lasting impacts on breweries large and small during Darrel's time in the industry by making sure that the supply chain can adapt to the needs of a dynamic industry. Darrel has also been connecting barley farmers to the beer industry at large, making sure there is a shared vision and understanding between breweries and the land and people that make beer possible.
Darrel has also been instrumental in supporting 2-row barley varieties with dormancy which has allowed US grown barley from ND better acceptance. He has been a champion for farmers and the many people and operations across rural communities who are the vital connection of agriculture to the beer that ends up in the hands of consumers. Darrel has been a team leader and exemplary employee at Rahr for 38 years! His tenure and contribution are a testament to the lasting strength of the beer industry across the U.S., and an example of how beer connects people across communities and the land.

"Receiving this award is truly an honor," says Darrel, "but it's a reflection of the outstanding team I work with. At Taft and Amenia, we've had a dedicated crew for many years, and their commitment to working with growers and ensuring barley gets to Shakopee is just as important as mine."
"RahrBSG's focus on core values and honesty has allowed us to build relationships with growers that span generations," adds Darrel. "Barley has become a specialty crop, creating a close-knit community of growers, maltsters, and brewers who collaborate to deliver the best barley possible. Our growers take pride in knowing what kind of beer their barley helps create, and that connection makes this work truly special."

"Congratulations to this year's Beer Institute BEST IN BREW honorees. This recognition is a testament to their passion, innovation and dedication to advancing U.S. beer industry," said Brian Crawford, president and CEO of the Beer Institute. "From grain to glass, these industry leaders ensure beer continues to be a cornerstone of our economy, our communities and our culture. We are proud to celebrate the 2025 class of BEST IN BREW honorees, their achievements and the role they play in keeping beer vibrant and strong."
BEST IN BREW Honors is an annual award to celebrate employees in every aspect of the beer industry and their contribution to its success. To learn more about the program and the honorees, please visit Beerinstitute.org.
The Beer Institute is a national trade association for the American brewing industry, representing brewers, beer importers and industry suppliers—an industry that supports nearly 2.42 million jobs and provides more than $471 billion to the American economy. First founded in 1862 as the U.S. Brewers Association, the Beer Institute is committed today to developing sound public policy and to the values of civic duty and personal responsibility. For additional updates from the Beer Institute, visit our website and follow us on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram.
To read the full press release, visit beerinstitute.org.