Switchback Spirits Wins Double Gold at North American Bourbon & Whiskey Competition
BURLINGTON, VT - Switchback Brewing Co. is proud to announce that its Essential Vermont Malt Whiskey has earned a Double Gold Medal at the 2025 North American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition (NABWC). This latest honor joins a growing list of accolades for the brewery, reinforcing Switchback’s expanding reputation for exceptional Vermont-made spirits.
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.
About Switchback Brewing Co.
Founded in 2002, Switchback Brewing Co. began with the creation of Switchback Ale. The iconic Vermont ale was developed as a flavor concept, not adhering to any style guidelines, left unfiltered and naturally conditioned. In addition to craft beer, the brewery’s offerings have grown to include Switchback N.A., a non-alcoholic version of its flagship ale, and a line of spirits under the Switchback Spirits label, including the award-winning Essential Vermont Malt Whiskey. The 100% employee-owned brewery’s home is located in the South End of Burlington VT, where visitors can enjoy the Beer Garden & Smokehouse with house-smoked BBQ and the full range of Switchback beverages.
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