AMB Founders Launch Their Most Ambitious Concept Yet

Part distillery, part brewery, part restaurant, part cannabis bar—Modern Alchemist Co. is a one-of-a-kind destination bringing every corner of beverage culture under one roof. There's something for everyone at the new concept from Appalachian Mountain Brewery founders Chris Zieber and Nathan Kelischek - now open in Old Fort, NC (under 30 minutes from Asheville). 

Since opening Appalachian Mountain Brewery (AMB) in 2013—the first craft brewery in Boone—Chris and Nathan have earned a reputation for quality, flavor, and detail. Inspired by their German heritage, love of North Carolina, and passion for the outdoors, the cousins pioneered cider before it was mainstream, launched Bojangles Hard Tea, opened a widely popular taproom in Mills River, and now created their most ambitious concept to date. Modern Alchemist Co. is the literal representation of the brand ethos: melding the artistry of flavor with the science of innovation with every sip and forkful. 

"We've always believed great experiences shouldn't only exist in cities," said Nathan Kelischek Co-Founder, Modern Alchemist Co. "From Boone to Mills River to now Old Fort, our mission has been to bring high-quality, detail-driven experiences across Western North Carolina." 

The constraints of a dry county have led Chris and Nathan to build a beverage program unlike anything else in the country. Spirits, beer, THC/CBD, and NA options are presented side-by-side - with every libation being developed in-house. There's truly something for every palate and preference. All of this can be enjoyed alongside a full-service Latin-inspired menu of tacos, tortas, and bowls in a table-service setting. "Modern Alchemist is where everything we've learned over the past 12 years—quality brewing, innovative beverages, and hospitality—comes together under one roof," said Chris Zieber, Co-Founder, Modern Alchemist Co. 

The opening of Modern Alchemist Co. comes on the heels of the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene, which led to severe flooding in Old Fort. Chris and Nathan hope that Modern Alchemist Co. can serve as a signal of resilience and growth, marking a new chapter for a small Appalachian town that's attracting a variety of visitors and residents seeking a new kind of food and drink experience. The 8,500 square foot space sits inside a former sock factory that has remained in the same family for generations. Not only a reliable place for a quality drink and dinner, the establishment of Modern Alchemist Co. also offers a new event venue for weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, and more. 

And as always, Modern Alchemist's THC/CBD beverages are available online for shipping to most states, extending the experience nationwide and inviting visitors from across the country to experience the brick and mortar space.