Where To Find And Buy Backward Flag Beer

Backward Flag Brewing Company is a veteran-owned and woman-owned brewery located in Forked River, New Jersey. Founded by former Army soldier Torie Fisher, the company takes its name from the Army uniform's backward flag, which symbolises always moving forward and never retreating. The brewery offers a wide range of beers, including blonde ales, IPAs, pale ales, stouts, and more. While the company seems to have ceased operations as of June 2024, their beers can still be found and purchased online through platforms like BeerMenus and Untappd.

Backward Flag Brewing Company's location and opening hours

The Backward Flag Brewing Company is located in Forked River, NJ 08731, United States. It was opened in September 2015 by Torie Fisher, a former Army soldier who developed a passion for craft beer after 13 years in the Army. The Backward Flag is an ode to the Army uniform, symbolising always moving forward and never retreating.

The brewery's opening hours are as follows:

• Thursday: 4 pm-10 pm
• Friday: 2 pm-10 pm
• Saturday: 12 pm-10 pm
• Sunday: 12 pm-6 pm

Unfortunately, one source indicates that the brewery is no longer in business as of June 2024.

The inspiration behind the name and logo

Backward Flag Brewing Company was founded in 2015 by Torie Fisher, a former UH-60 Blackhawk Crew Chief in the Army. After 13 years in the Army, Fisher decided to turn her hobby of brewing, which she learned from a friend in her unit, into a business.

The name and logo of the company are inspired by the backward flag patch on Army uniforms, which is worn on the right shoulder. This patch symbolises always moving forward and never retreating. As the company's founder is a veteran, the logo and name are a nod to her time in the Army and a tribute to the military.

In 2019, for the first time in its then four-year history, Backward Flag Brewing Co. celebrated Pride Month. The company sold specialty merchandise with a logo designed by tasting room employee Nicholette Torsiello, which integrated the Pride flag behind the stars. This logo was designed to symbolise the importance of including the LGBTQ+ community in the company's mission to support all service members, regardless of sexual orientation.

The company's founder, Torie Fisher, commented:

> The first rainbow flag was designed by Army Veteran Gilbert Baker in 1978 as a symbol of community. Backward Flag Brewing is a diverse community that proudly supports all of our brothers and sisters represented by that iconic symbol. We will never tolerate hate or prejudice amongst our ranks. Pride in ones self is the right of every American.

The story of the founder, Torie Fisher

Torie Fisher, the founder of Backward Flag Brewing Company, is a veteran of the U.S. Army and National Guard, having served for 13 years. During her time in the military, she discovered her passion for craft beer after learning how to brew from a friend in her unit. This sparked an interest that would eventually become a full-time pursuit.

Fisher's journey into the world of craft beer was not without its challenges. In a male-dominated industry, she faced obstacles as a woman business owner, particularly as a woman veteran. Despite the surprised looks and assumptions, she pushed through and broke into the craft beer world. Fisher's headstrong nature and risk-taking spirit, honed during her military service, fuelled her determination to start her own business.

The name and symbol of Backward Flag Brewing Company hold a special meaning. Inspired by the Army uniform, the backward flag represents always moving forward and never retreating. It is worn on the right shoulder of the military uniform, facing the opposite direction from the traditional flag. This symbol embodies the soldier's mindset of placing the mission first and relentlessly pursuing success.

Fisher's journey into entrepreneurship was a steep learning curve. With no business background, she had to navigate unfamiliar territory, learning business terms and concepts from scratch. She sought guidance from mentors, joined the Brewers Association, and met with other brewery owners to gain insights and refine her business plan. This process led her to focus solely on the brewery aspect of her initial plan, which included a restaurant.

Balancing her roles as a mother, business owner, and veteran hasn't been easy. Fisher's week starts at 5 a.m., juggling work and family commitments with the support of her partner. She also prioritises her staff's well-being, drawing on her military leadership training to create a supportive work environment. Fisher's expansion plans for the brewery, combined with her dedication to her team and customers, reflect her unwavering pursuit of excellence.

The range of beers offered by the company

Backward Flag Brewing Company is a veteran-owned and woman-owned brewery in Forked River, New Jersey. The company was founded by Torie Fisher, who, after 13 years in the Army, decided to turn her passion for craft beer into a business.

The brewery offers a wide range of beers, including:

• Blonde and Golden Ales: The Lil Blonde Ale is a classic, easy-drinking beer with a 5.6% ABV.
• Brown Ales: The Bravo Brown Ale is a unique beer brewed with roasted sweet potatoes, vanilla, oak, and smoky peppers, giving it a complex and toasty flavour.
• Black IPAs: The Black 6 is a hoppy Americano coffee stout, perfect for those who enjoy a bold and robust flavour.
• American Pale Ales: The Oak Armoured Ale is a smooth and easy-drinking ale aged on American toasted oak, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
• German Hefeweizens: The Sand Rations is a traditional German wheat beer with subtle notes of banana, clove, and bubble gum. It's an ideal choice for spring and summer months.
• Cream Ales: The Safety Brief is a cream ale brewed with 2-row malt and flaked corn, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture.
• Imperial Stouts: The M.R.E. is a rich and indulgent beer with an 8.4% ABV, perfect for those who enjoy a bold and robust flavour.
• Sour Ales: The Passion Party is a wild sour ale infused with passion fruit, resulting in a sweet and tangy flavour.
• Milkshake IPAs: The Vet Juice is a unique take on the traditional IPA, with a creamy texture and a 7.2% ABV.

The Backward Flag Brewing Company is constantly experimenting with new flavours and styles, so customers can expect a rotating selection of beers to choose from. Whether you're a fan of light and crisp blondes or bold and robust stouts, Backward Flag Brewing Company has something to offer.

Reviews of Backward Flag Brewing Company

Backward Flag Brewing Company is a woman-owned, veteran-brewed craft beer company located in Forked River, New Jersey. Founded by Torie Fisher, a former Army soldier with 13 years of service, the company officially opened its doors in September 2015. The name "Backward Flag" is inspired by the Army uniform, symbolising always moving forward and never retreating.

The company has a strong focus on community and inclusivity, welcoming people from all walks of life, regardless of race, gender, sexual preference, or political beliefs. This ethos is reflected in their diverse range of beers, which include:

• Blonde/Golden Ale
• Brown Ale
• Black IPA
• American Pale Ale
• German Hefeweizen
• Sour Ale
• Milkshake IPA
• Imperial Stout
• Coffee Pale Ale
• New England/Hazy IPA
• Milk/Sweet Stout
• Mexican Coffee Pale Ale
• Spiced/Herbed Beer
• Double IPA

Backward Flag Brewing Company has received positive reviews from craft beer enthusiasts, with many praising the unique and innovative flavours of their beers. The company's Facebook page has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, with many reviewers highlighting the quality of the beer, the friendly atmosphere of the taproom, and the knowledgeable staff. One reviewer commented, "Great beer, great people, and a great atmosphere. So many unique and delicious beers to choose from, and the staff are always happy to help you find something new to try." Another reviewer praised the community-oriented vibe, saying, "I felt so welcome as soon as I walked through the door. It's clear that Backward Flag values its customers and wants to bring people together. I'll definitely be back!"

In addition to their taproom, Backward Flag Brewing Company also distributes its beers to select retailers and restaurants in the area. They also offer brewery tours and special events, creating a well-rounded craft beer experience that has earned them a loyal following.

Frequently asked questions