AMSAT History

For some time now, the concept of AMSAT Character Malts has been brewing in Simon’s head. But, this is not a new venture for the business. AMSAT stands for Australian Malting Services and Technology, and we were producing malt decades ago. AMSAT are returning to their roots.

Adelaide Maltings

AMSAT’s life started before AMSAT. Bill Gill, the original owner of AMSAT, had a share of Adelaide Maltings. This business was a joint venture with Coopers Brewery until 2002, supplying malt to Coopers Brewery along with many international customers.

Adelaide Maltings, at its peak, was producing malt 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The business, however, was sold in 2002.

Oak

Before Adelaide Maltings was sold, they had been approached by Berri Estate to toast oak shavings. Wineries soon cottoned on to the economic value of using oak alternatives, and the demand for their toasted oak increased over the years.

When Adelaide Maltings was sold, Bill retained the oak business (and a roaster) and continued to supply the wine industry, as AMSAT.

AMSAT also continued to roast malt and consult around the world to malting facilities. Th oak business soon took off, however, and took over the capacity of the business. As a result, the malt business was put to the side. Until now.

New Ownership

Bill brought Simon Ewart into the business in 2017. First in a sales capacity, before asking Simon to manage the business. Simon, a qualified winemaker and engineer, grew the business further.

Over several years, Simon bought into the business and eventually took 100% ownership and control in 2021. With Simon now owning the business outright, he diversified the business, and increased the business’s capacity to allow AMSAT to get back into malting.

With a view to serve the craft brewing and distilling industry, Simon brought Andrew Munro into the business in 2022. Having worked in the whisky and brewing industries, Andrew has worked with Simon to develop products that will add value to the brewing and distilling industries. Craft malt for craft beer and whisky.