When is the mill open to the public?

The mill is open to the public during our monthly Mill Race Markets.  These markets are held on the first Sunday of the month.  A full schedule can be found here.

Do you give mill tours during the Mill Race Market?

While we don't offer official tours of the mill, we're happy to answer any questions you may have. During market hours, the mill is open, and you're welcome to explore the first floor. You'll also have the opportunity to see the water wheels in motion, giving you a glimpse of how the machinery operates. If you have a larger group and would like to schedule a tour, please reach out to us at info@deeprootsmilling.com

What is spelt?

Spelt is an ancient grain, a species of wheat (scientifically known as Triticum spelta) that has been cultivated for thousands of years. It's closely related to modern wheat but has a different genetic makeup, which gives it a distinct flavor and nutritional profile.

Spelt has a slightly nutty, sweet flavor and can be used in place of regular wheat in many recipes, such as bread, pasta, and cereals. It is rich in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients like magnesium, iron, and zinc. While spelt contains gluten, some people find it easier to digest compared to modern wheat varieties. It's often favored by those looking for whole grains or ancient grains in their diet.

Where do we source our grain?

We source our grains from a variety of growers across the Mid-Atlantic region. While our long-term goal is to source 100% of our grain from Virginia farmers, the current supply isn't sufficient to meet our needs. To supplement our Virginia supply, we also work with growers in Maryland and Pennsylvania.

How should I store my flour?

Since our flours are stone-ground, they retain much of their natural nutrients and oils, which can cause them to become rancid if not stored properly. To keep your flour fresh, we recommend treating it like fresh produce and storing it in a cool place. A refrigerator or freezer is ideal, but be sure to bring the flour to room temperature before using it.

How long will the flour keep?

When stored in cold storage, as we recommend, our flours can last up to 6 months. However, it's best to use them as soon as possible for optimal freshness. If you're unsure, you can perform a simple sniff test to check for any signs of spoilage—if it smells off, it's time to discard the flour.

What is the difference between gold and silver flour?

Our pastry, bread, and all-purpose flours come in 'Gold' and 'Silver' varieties, which refer to how the flours are sifted and their extraction rate—essentially, how much bran they retain. Our Gold flours are minimally sifted, retaining 95% to 99% of the wheat berry, including most of the bran and germ. These can be considered true whole wheat flours. The Silver flours are sifted a bit more, with an extraction rate of 85% to 90%, offering a lighter texture and crumb while still not being a 'white' flour.

What's the difference between the corns?

We mill several varieties of corn, all of which are heirloom types, though the specific varieties may vary. One of our most popular is a red dent corn called Bloody Butcher.

Do our growers use glyphosate?

We work exclusively with growers who practice organic and regenerative farming methods. Many of the grains we use are certified organic, and the rest are grown using organic and regenerative practices. None of the grains we source are treated with glyphosate.

Do we offer whole grains for sale?

Although we don't offer bulk grains for sale through our online store, we can accommodate certain requests. Please contact us at info@deeprootsmilling.com for availability.