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By: Chris Marchio Knotted Root

Chris Marchio, a visionary brewmaster and founder of Knotted Root Brewing Company, embarked on his brewing journey in rural Vermont as a passionate homebrewer. His palate and brewing style were profoundly shaped by Vermont’s renowned hoppy ales. After formal studies in brewing and fermentation science at Central Washington University, Chris honed his skills through various roles, including an internship at Roslyn Brewing Company and a pivotal tenure at Anderson Valley Brewing Company. His journey led him to Colorado, where he contributed significantly to Fiction Beer Company and Joyride Brewing. At Knotted Root, Chris combines his brewing expertise with his love for music, skiing, and community involvement, driving both creative brews and charitable initiatives.

Q&A with Chris Marchio, Founder and Brewmaster at Knotted Root Brewing Company

Chris, can you tell us about your early brewing experiences in Vermont?

Chris Marchio: My brewing journey began in college as a homebrewer in rural Vermont. At that time, Vermont was evolving into a world-class beer destination known for its hoppy ales. These beers significantly influenced my palate and fueled my passion for hops.

How did your education and professional training shape your brewing style?

Chris Marchio: After Vermont, I moved west to study brewing and fermentation science at Central Washington University. This program deepened my understanding of brewing science, leading to an internship at Roslyn Brewing Company. Later, I honed my commercial brewing techniques at Anderson Valley Brewing Company in Mendocino, California.

What prompted your move to Colorado and your involvement with Fiction Beer Company and Joyride Brewing?

Chris Marchio: Colorado always fascinated me. When the opportunity arose to help open a brewery in Denver, I jumped at it. Joining Fiction Beer Company in 2014 as their first employee and assistant brewer allowed me to experiment with recipes and brewing techniques. Later, as Head Brewer at Joyride Brewing, I continued developing unfiltered hoppy ales, which helped me grow as a creative brewer.

What inspired you to start Knotted Root Brewing Company?

Chris Marchio: After years in various brewing roles, I was ready to realize my dream of opening my own brewery. Since January 2017, I’ve been focused on creating and leading Knotted Root Brewing Company, combining my brewing skills with my artistic vision.

How do your personal interests outside brewing influence your work?

Chris Marchio: My interests in music, live performances, gardening, skiing, cooking, and art deeply influence my brewing. For instance, my experience in fermentation and unique beverage recipe development often finds its way into my brewing process.

Can you speak about your company’s involvement in charity and community work?

Chris Marchio: Knotted Root Brewing Company, through charity beers and food-related events, has contributed significantly to local animal rescue charities, food banks, emergency relief efforts, ALS charities, and Vermont’s Water Wheel Foundation. We believe in making a positive impact on our community.

How do you define success in your industry?

Chris Marchio: Success, to me, is about the impact we make on people’s lives. It’s not just about brewing great beer but also about how we contribute to the community and support causes that matter.

What obstacles have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

Chris Marchio: The pressures of everyday life and negativity from others can be challenging. My approach is to not let negative energy affect me and to focus on staying positive. I’ve learned to not give energy to things beyond my control.

Who are your personal inspirations?

Chris Marchio: My dad, my partner, and my musical heroes are my biggest inspirations. They remind me that life is an evolution, and it’s important to stay true to yourself, even when others around you might not be.

Finally, how do you stay focused and maintain your vision for your company?

Chris Marchio: By staying true to my goals and intentions, that led me to start in the first place. It’s crucial not to let others who may have ulterior motives deter me. Personal satisfaction, positive consumer feedback, and believing in my project and myself keep me focused.

Key Takeaways

• Passion for Brewing and Community Impact: Chris Marchio‘s journey from a homebrewer in Vermont to the founder of Knotted Root Brewing Company highlights his deep passion for brewing and its artistry. His work is not just about crafting unique beers but also about making a positive impact on the community, evidenced by his significant contributions to various charities and local causes.
• Educational and Professional Growth: Chris’s educational background in brewing and fermentation science, combined with his diverse professional experiences across different breweries, has been instrumental in shaping his innovative brewing techniques and styles. This journey underscores the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the craft brewing industry.
• Staying True to Vision and Overcoming Challenges: Chris emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s vision and goals despite external pressures and challenges. His approach to handling negativity and focusing on what he can control reflects a resilient and positive mindset crucial for success in any entrepreneurial venture.