As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that malt beverages can indeed have alcohol. The level of alcohol in malt drinks can vary depending on the fermentation process. Malt is a key ingredient in beer production, which is why beer is the most common malt beverage.
When it comes to beer, the malt is derived from barley grains that have been malted, or germinated and dried. This malted barley is then mashed with hot water to extract the sugars, which are then fermented by yeast. During fermentation, yeast consumes the sugars and produces alcohol as a byproduct. The longer the fermentation process, the higher the alcohol content in the final beer.
I have personally been involved in the brewing process, and it is fascinating to see how the malt transforms into a delicious alcoholic beverage. The aroma and flavors of malted barley can vary depending on the type of malt used, such as pale malt, caramel malt, or roasted malt. These malts add complexity and depth to the beer, enhancing its taste profile.
It's worth noting that not all malt beverages are alcoholic. There are non-alcoholic malt drinks available in the market as well. These beverages are typically made using a similar brewing process, but the fermentation is halted before significant alcohol is produced. Non-alcoholic malt drinks are a popular choice for those who want to enjoy the flavors of malt without the alcohol content.
In some cultures, malt beverages are also used as a base for spirits. For example, whisky is often made from malted barley. The malted barley is mashed, fermented, and distilled to produce a high-proof spirit, which is then aged in oak barrels to develop complex flavors.
To summarize, malt beverages can have alcohol if they undergo fermentation. Beer, made from malted barley, is the most common alcoholic malt beverage. However, there are also non-alcoholic malt drinks available for those who prefer a non-alcoholic option. The brewing process and choice of malt can greatly influence the taste and alcohol content of these beverages.