oast

An oast, also known as an oast house, is a building designed for kilning (drying) hops. Hops are the cone-like flowers of the hop plant, Humulus lupulus, and are a crucial ingredient in the brewing of beer, providing bitterness, flavor, and acting as a preservative. The process of drying hops is essential to reduce their moisture content, allowing them to be stored and transported without spoiling.

Oasts are typically characterized by their distinctive conical roofs, often topped with a cowl or vent that rotates to direct airflow. These roofs cover the kiln chamber where the hops are spread out on a series of perforated floors, usually made of wire mesh or wooden slats. Beneath the kiln chamber is a furnace or stove that generates heat, which is then directed upwards through the hops. The heat and airflow cause the moisture to evaporate from the hops, drying them to the desired level.

Historically, oasts were a common feature in hop-growing regions, particularly in England, where they were integral to the agricultural landscape. Many old oast houses have since been converted into residential properties, restaurants, or other businesses, preserving their unique architectural heritage. The distinctive shape and towering kilns of oast houses make them easily recognizable landmarks in the countryside. The design of the oast was optimized for efficient drying and ventilation, ensuring the quality of the harvested hops.