Switchgrass Spirits

When a craft distillery converts a historic American Legion Hall into their headquarters and commits to sweet mash whiskey production, they signal serious intent. Switchgrass Spirits, operating from St. Louis's north side since 2017, represents Missouri's grain-forward approach to whiskey making with uncommon dedication to local sourcing and worker ownership.

History & Heritage

Founded by Nick Colombo, Sarah Miller, and Pat Grosch in 2016, with Jerry Seelbach joining in 2019, Switchgrass Spirits spent its early years renovating their American Legion Hall home and perfecting their craft. The distillery takes its name from the hardy native switchgrass of Midwestern prairies, reflecting both regional identity and resilience. Their first release came in February 2020 with Copperhead Rock & Rye, marking the transition from preparation to production.

The Whiskey

Switchgrass employs sweet mashing rather than the industry-standard sour mash process, a labor-intensive choice that produces superior flavor in younger spirits. Their grain-forward mash bills emphasize wheat and barley, distilled through a handcrafted hybrid pot and column still that allows precise cuts to taste. All expressions age in Missouri White Oak barrels from sustainably managed local forests. The Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon delivers honey, cornbread, and citrus notes, while their Bottled-in-Bond Rye offers stone fruit, spice, and creamy cherry cola undertones.

Why It Matters

Switchgrass Spirits earned silver medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and gold medals in 2024 for both bourbon and rye, along with the 2025 Double Platinum Independent Craft Legend award. Their commitment to sweet mashing, local ingredients, and hands-on production distinguishes them in Missouri's growing whiskey landscape. For those who appreciate grain-forward American whiskey made without shortcuts, Switchgrass represents the serious craft distilling Missouri can produce.