How a Beer Mogul Brought a 1900 Telluride Gem Back to Life

Lucía Torres · 2026-07-22

LIV Sotheby's International Realty is thrilled to announce that the Telluride home of SweetWater Brewing Company founder Freddy Bensch and his wife, Jennifer, is now on the market after a stunning two-year remodel. Listed by global real estate advisor Sally Puff Courtney for $13,400,000, this mountain residence perfectly blends Telluride's mining-town history with modern luxury. ### A Nod to the Past, Built for the Future Originally constructed in 1900, this 3,803-square-foot Victorian home sits proudly in Telluride's National Historic District. The Bensch team—including Tommy Hein Architects, Tandem Custom Builders, and Tribe Interior Design—completely reimagined the five-bedroom property over the last two years. They honored its roots while preparing it for a new century. "There are very few opportunities to thoughtfully preserve a home from this era while preparing it for another century of life," the couple explained. "From the beginning, we viewed ourselves as stewards of the property rather than simply developers. We wanted to respect its story and ensure that its historic character remained an important part of the neighborhood for generations to come." ### Preserving Character, Elevating Comfort The Bensches carefully kept the home's original street presence. They maintained the historic facade, including the original clapboard siding and trellis. Inside, every detail was chosen for longevity and quality. - **Kitchen:** Equipped with top-tier Miele, Wolf, and Sub-Zero appliances. - **Bedrooms:** Five total, including a bunk room and a detached guest suite offering privacy or income potential. - **Entertainment:** A dedicated entertainment room perfect for après-ski or trail gatherings, plus a ski room for gear storage. - **Garage:** Heated garage over 250 square feet with plenty of space for vehicles and extra storage. - **Winter Ready:** A snowmelt system keeps the driveway and sidewalks clear during snowy months. "It's luxurious without feeling overly formal," the couple said. "Every room was designed to be enjoyed, whether you're entertaining a large group or spending a quiet evening with family." ### A Unique Opportunity in Telluride Freddy Bensch built SweetWater Brewing into one of the country's most recognized craft breweries. Now, he and Jennifer are passing on their stewardship of this historic gem. For professionals in the luxury real estate space, this property represents a rare blend of heritage and modern design—a home that tells a story while offering uncompromised comfort.