Switchback Spirits Wins Double Gold at North American Bourbon & Whiskey Competition

The NABWC, founded in 2014 and produced by Wine Country Network, brings together top whiskey producers from across North America in a double-blind, style-based competition judged by a panel of industry professionals. A Double Gold designation is reserved for spirits that receive unanimous gold ratings from the entire judging panel. “This is a huge honor,” said Bill Cherry, Founder and Brewmaster of Switchback Brewing Co. “We set out to make something meaningful with Essential Whiskey, something rooted in creativity, collaboration, and our Vermont craft values. To see it recognized on this level is incredibly rewarding.” 

Essential Vermont Malt Whiskey began as a creative collaboration between Switchback and Split Spirits (formerly Appalachian Gap Distillery) during the COVID-19 pandemic. What started as a solution to repurpose surplus Switchback Ale has since evolved into a full-fledged spirits line, available statewide in Vermont and featured at the Switchback Beer Garden & Smokehouse. 

The Double Gold medal at NABWC follows earlier recognition for Essential Whiskey at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, one of the most respected spirits contests in the world. With recent recognition in hand, Switchback Spirits continues to build on the brewery’s legacy of innovation, balance, and Vermont-made excellence. 

Essential Vermont Malt Whiskey and Essential Vermont Hopped Gin are available at 802 Spirits stores across Vermont, at Split Spirits and on-site at the Switchback Beer Garden & Smokehouse.