Burlington Brews Innovation: Local Switchback and Appalachian Gap Distillery Launch 'Essential Spirits' Line

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Switchback Brewing Co., located in Burlington, VT, collaborated with Appalachian Gap Distillery to launch a new line of spirits called Essential Spirits. This partnership began as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which risked spoiling large amounts of Switchback Ale intended for St. Patrick’s Day Weekend. To avoid waste, approximately 1,500 kegs of the ale were distilled into whiskey at Appalachian Gap Distillery.

The ale was converted into whiskey, now aging for at least three years in oak barrels. This process gives the whiskey an amber color and flavors of herbs and caramel. The collaboration also resulted in the production of Essential Vermont Gin, which features hop flavors and notes of evergreen and spices.

Craig Wilkinson, the Production Manager at Switchback, noted the collaboration as a valuable learning experience for both teams. Will Drucker, the founder of Appalachian Gap, viewed the project as a constructive endeavor during the pandemic that supports their sustainability objectives.

The Essential Spirits product line, including Vermont Malt Whiskey and Gin, is now available. These products are sold at 802 Spirits liquor stores, Appalachian Gap Distillery, and will soon be available at Switchback’s new Beer Garden & Tap House in Burlington’s South End. This new venue will offer an expanded menu and a selection of taps and cocktails.