SweetWater Brewing Company, the popular Atlanta-based craft beer brewery, is owned by Freddy Bensch. Freddy Bensch is not only the owner but also the founder and CEO of SweetWater. He started the brewery in 1997 with his college buddy, Kevin McNerney.
The idea for SweetWater came about during a fishing trip on the Sweetwater Creek in Georgia. Freddy and Kevin, both passionate about beer and outdoor activities, saw an opportunity to create a brewery that combined their love for great beer with their love for nature and adventure.
Since its humble beginnings, SweetWater has grown to become one of the largest craft breweries in the Southeastern United States. Their flagship beer, SweetWater 420 Extra Pale Ale, has become iconic in the craft beer scene and has helped establish the brand’s reputation for quality and innovation.
Over the years, SweetWater has expanded its portfolio to include a wide range of beer styles, from IPAs and pale ales to stouts and seasonal brews. They are known for their creative and bold flavor combinations, always pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles.
In addition to their commitment to brewing high-quality beer, SweetWater is also dedicated to environmental stewardship. They have partnered with various environmental organizations and actively participate in initiatives to protect and conserve water sources. Their “Save Our Water” campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of clean water and sustainable practices.
SweetWater’s success and growth have attracted attention from larger beer companies. In 2020, it was announced that Canadian cannabis producer Aphria Inc. would acquire SweetWater Brewing Company. This acquisition provided SweetWater with additional resources and distribution capabilities to expand their reach beyond the Southeastern United States.
However, despite the acquisition, Freddy Bensch remains actively involved in the company as the CEO. He continues to lead SweetWater’s vision and maintains the brewery’s commitment to producing quality craft beer while staying true to their roots.
SweetWater Brewing Company is owned by Freddy Bensch, who also serves as the CEO. His passion for beer, adventure, and environmental sustainability has shaped the brewery’s identity and contributed to its success in the craft beer industry.