Which of the following is a modern two-row variety grown in North America?

Conrad is a modern two-row barley variety that has been developed specifically for brewing purposes in North America. Two-row barley is known for having grains that are generally larger and higher in starch content compared to six-row varieties, making it particularly favorable for brewing beers with a clean and crisp flavor profile.

Conrad was bred for its favorable agronomic traits, including disease resistance and yield potential, as well as its brewing characteristics, which contribute to the production of high-quality malt. This specific focus on both agricultural and brewing qualities sets it apart and highlights its significance in the craft and commercial brewing industries in North America.

In contrast, the other options—hops, barley (as a general term), and rye—do not specifically refer to a known two-row barley variety. Hops are a key ingredient in beer but are not a type of barley. The term barley itself encompasses many varieties, both two-row and six-row, but it does not identify a specific modern variety like Conrad does. Rye is a different grain altogether, primarily used in certain beer styles but not classified as a two-row variety for brewing purposes.