Carries a novel distilling quality trait (non-glycosidic nitrile) desirable in discerning markets
Elite malting quality
Agronomically very similar to RGT Planet, with slightly slower maturity
Yield very similar to RGT Planet particularly in higher yielding environments
Opportunity for growers in SA/Vic to produce under contract for maltsters
Official malt quality classification pending - outcome expected 2026
Breeders comments
AGT-Spirit offers a novel malting quality package conferring suitability to barley malt whiskey distilling, carrying the non-GN (non-glycosidic nitrile) trait; a trait that is increasingly sought after by discerning distillers around the globe; and one that, at this time, is rare in Australian barley varieties.
The non-GN trait is matched with elite malting quality, offering opportunities for additive free (reduced or no Gibberellic acid) malting; desired by some high value malt markets.
AGT-Spirit has an agronomic package very similar to RGT Planet, with similar grain yield potential and adaptation.
The physical grain quality package of AGT-Spirit offers small improvements in screenings and retentions relative to RGT Planet, but test weight can be a little lower in some environments.
The disease package of AGT-Spirit offers improved net-form and spot-form net blotch relative to RGT Planet, with comparable scald and leaf rust resistance.
Opportunities exist for growers in higher yielding environments of SA and Victoria to grow parcels of AGT-Spirit under contract for selected maltsters. Please contact the AGT Variety Support Manager in your region to register interest.
For full details download the AGT-Spirit fact sheet
AGT-Spirit is protected by Plant Breeders Rights (PBR) and all production (except seed saved for planting) is liable to an End Point Royalty (EPR), which funds future plant breeding.
AGT-Spirit growers will be subject to a Grower License Agreement that acknowledges that an EPR of $4.10/tonne + GST must be paid on all production other than seed saved for planting.
Breeders comments
AGT-Spirit offers a novel malting quality package conferring suitability to barley malt whiskey distilling, carrying the non-GN (non-glycosidic nitrile) trait; a trait that is increasingly sought after by discerning distillers around the globe; and one that, at this time, is rare in Australian barley varieties.
The non-GN trait is matched with elite malting quality, offering opportunities for additive free (reduced or no Gibberellic acid) malting; desired by some high value malt markets.
AGT-Spirit has an agronomic package very similar to RGT Planet, with similar grain yield potential and adaptation.
The physical grain quality package of AGT-Spirit offers small improvements in screenings and retentions relative to RGT Planet, but test weight can be a little lower in some environments.
The disease package of AGT-Spirit offers improved net-form and spot-form net blotch relative to RGT Planet, with comparable scald and leaf rust resistance.
Opportunities exist for growers in higher yielding environments of SA and Victoria to grow parcels of AGT-Spirit under contract for selected maltsters. Please contact the AGT Variety Support Manager in your region to register interest.