Canada: CMBTC releases its 2026�27 Recommended Barley Varieties List

The Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre (CMBTC) released its 2026–27 Recommended Barley Varieties List on November 24 to support growers as they plan for the 2026 season.

The Recommended Barley Varieties List shows where growers and end-users are aligning as the market evolves.

AAC Synergy remains the leading variety, accounting for 35 per cent of seeded acres in 2025 and maintains broad acceptance among maltsters and brewers.

Newer varieties like AAC Connect and CDC Fraser are gaining traction with growers and processors seeing strong performance and long-term supply potential.

With growing interest in newer varieties, CDC Copeland—the oldest variety on the list—continues to decline.

The CMBTC develops the list with input from maltsters, brewers, exporters, seed companies and growers.

It says growers planning for the 2026 season should check with their grain buyers or malt barley buyers to ensure their variety choice aligns with market opportunities.