The Alchemist's Heady Topper is one of the most sought after and highly regarded beers in the world. The brewery, which was at first a brew-pub, was founded by Jen and John Kimmich. John focuses on the brewing and Jen manages the business side of the operation.
"Jen is a really cool person, super smart [and has] real sharp business sense, said Sally Pollak, a contributor to the Savorvore section of The Burlington Free Press. "Jen has a real knack for and understanding of business and numbers. To her it seems easy; she flat out says it's not complicated."
The Alchemist is expanding its operations to Stowe this summer. The new facility will have a larger production space and allow them grow their philanthropic efforts, such as their scholarship fund for students at Harwood Union High School.
"They're really interested in looking for kids who aren't the standard students who receive academic scholarships," Pollak said. "Someone said to me they aren't the rock stars, they're just kids who really might not have even thought of going to college."
The VPR Café is made possible by Otter Creek Kitchenware in downtown Middlebury, offering over 70 lines of kitchenware.
