“The name Switchback was first conjured while I was envisioning myself cycling up the Appalachian Gap... I liked the fact that switchbacks are regularly used by hikers, skiers, and cyclists, but also that the term serves as a metaphor for life,in that our path is seldom straight towards our goals.”

-BILL CHERRY CO-FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT OF SWITCHBACK BREWING CO.

Switchback Brewing Company was founded in 2002 by Bill Cherry and his longtime friend, Jeff.

Using brewing equipment from a defunct brewery in Arizona, the first batch of Switchback Ale was brewed during the summer of 2002.

The first pint served was at Ake’s Place in Burlington, VT on October 22, 2002.

Bill hired his second employee, Chris Dooley. Before that, Bill’s dog Piper worked with him, even during the days that lasted 17hrs.

Larger new fermenters were added as well as more employees to keep up with the demand of Switchback Ale.

A 1964 built copper brewhouse from the Braurei Schmucker in Beerfelden, Germany and matching fermenters were installed.

Switchback celebrated its 10th Birthday with the release of 22oz bottles (FINALLY!) and 6 weeks of inventory sold out immediately.

The Tap Room at Switchback opened, giving an outlet to showcase Switchback’s diverse collection of brews.

Switchback released 12oz bottles of Switchback Ale in the iconic stubby shape.

Switchback became the first 100% employee-owned brewery in the Northeast via an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

Switchback installed a state-of-the-art canning line allowing 12oz and 16oz cans to be packaged.

Switchback won the LCRCC Community Impact award for community support for their Switchback Gives Back philanthropic program.

At the start of the pandemic, Switchback collaborated with Appalachain Gap Distillery to create Essential Spirits, a project that creatively utilized excess beer from the shut down.

At the World Beer Cup® Switchback won gold in the Historical beer style category for Katie’s Love Poem.

Switchback opened their new Beer Garden & Tap House, with an expanded food and drink menu and more community events.