From chef Matt Jennings: “To me, New England means beer. We, New Englanders, have made plenty of attempts at winemaking, and there are a few that I would consider drinking and not washing my car with, but for the most part, New England is beer centric.

It’s not groundbreaking information that Vermont is home to the roots of the artisanal beer movement in America. Other states can claim their ownership of this progression of industry surrounding hops and malts, but you just can’t tell me that any other state has lent more ingenuity, creativity, and dedication to the world of craft ales.

Fitting then, that there is a little bar, in a little town, nestled in the comforting shoulders of the Green Mountains, that dedicates itself to all things brew. The Alchemist in Waterbury, Vermont, is a seven-barrel brewpub specializing in handcrafted beer and casual pub fare. All the ales here flow directly from the basement brewery, which was designed and installed by Master Brewer and co-proprietor John Kimmich. The Alchemist uses only the finest imported malts and domestic hops available to bring you the tastiest and finest selection of beers in Vermont.

While the food here is fine, the real reason to make a stop is the rotating selection of local, artisanal ales. You see, almost more importantly than the fact that the beers here are of world-class style and essence, and all made in house, The Alchemist provides more than just liquid fun. This place, and John, have been supporters of the grass roots movement of Vermont brewers, and so at any given time, you are bound to taste something very special, very unique and made in small quantities- all while potentially pulling up a barstool next to a celebrity Vermont brewer in the flesh and flannel- because this is where they hang out too.

Cask conditioned ales, seasonal variations, mild, strong, bitter and blond- it’s all here. So too, is the Vermont beer vibe. Chill out. Relax. Have a beer and support the movement.”