Catoctin Creek Logo

Catoctin Creek Distillery

Region
  • Purcellville, Virginia, United States
Awards
  • 2023 ASCOT Awards: Ragnarök Rye – Platinum, 2017 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, 2022 Good Food Awards: Roundstone Rye – Winner
Website
  • https://catoctincreekdistilling.com/
Phone Number
  • (540) 751-8404
Address
  • 120 W Main St, Purcellville, VA 20132

Exterior of Catoctin Creek Distilling Company building.

History of Catoctin Creek Distillery

 

Catoctin Creek Distillery, located in Purcellville, Virginia, was founded in 2009 by Becky and Scott Harris. It proudly stands as the first legal distillery in Loudoun County since the era of Prohibition.

The distillery is nestled in the scenic Loudoun Valley, a region rich in history and culture.

The name “Catoctin” has indigenous roots, originating from the Indian tribal name “Kittocton”, which translates to “place of many deer”.

This name is a nod to the picturesque Catoctin Creek which flows gracefully past the distillery, eventually merging with the iconic Potomac River.

About the Founders of Catoctin Creek Distillery

Becky Harris, with her profound background in chemical engineering, took on the role of Chief Distiller. Her expertise and passion for the craft are evident in the distillery’s products, especially the Roundstone Rye, which has been recognized as Virginia’s most awarded whisky. 

On the other hand, Scott Harris, equipped with his business acumen, manages the operations and has been instrumental in the distillery’s growth and recognition.

Catoctin Creek’s commitment to quality is unwavering. They prioritize sourcing grain and fruit from local producers, ensuring that they are free from pesticides and other chemical additives.

This dedication to purity and quality ensures that every bottle produced is of the highest standard.

 

Awards Won by Catoctin Creek Distillery

Catoctin Creek Distillery has garnered significant recognition and numerous awards over the years. Here’s a summary of the awards and accolades they’ve received:

Praises and Mentions:

  • Recognized as “Virginia’s Most Awarded Whisky” in cities like London, New York, and San Francisco.
  • Becky Harris was described as “arguably the greatest female whiskey maker in America” by Wine & Country in November 2020.
  • Better Homes & Gardens in May 2018 praised their whiskey as “A spice-forward tribute to—and from—Virginia, the birthplace of American whiskey.”
  • Fox News in November 2015 mentioned, “The company’s flagship Roundstone Rye is taking off way beyond its small-town roots.”
  • Southern Living in January 2015 highlighted, “While many craft spirits claim the title of ‘handmade,’ Catoctin walks the walk with its line of whiskeys, gins, and brandies.”

Product Awards:

  • Wine Enthusiast Magazine: Multiple products like Quarter Branch Apple Brandy, Roundstone Rye “92 Proof”, and Ragnarök Rye have received ratings ranging from 90 to 94 points.
  • Whisky Advocate Magazine & WhiskyCast: Their Roundstone Rye variants have been rated between 90 to 92 points.
  • ASCOT Awards 2023: Ragnarök Rye received a Platinum award.
  • ABV Network’s Key West Whiskey Awards 2023: Roundstone Rye “92 Proof” was awarded Double Gold & Best in Category.
  • San Francisco World Spirits Competition: Roundstone Rye “Cask Proof” received Double Gold in 2017.
  • F. Paul Pacult’s Spirit Journal: Roundstone Rye “Cask Proof” was awarded “Best of the Best” in June 2017 and received a five-star rating in September 2016.
  • American Whiskey Masters 2021 by The Spirits Business: Roundstone Rye variants “92 Proof” and “Cask Proof” both received Gold.
  • World Whiskies Awards 2018: Roundstone Rye “Cask Proof” was the category winner for American Rye Under 12 years.
  • Good Food Awards: Roundstone Rye was a winner in 2018 and a finalist for the “92 Proof” variant.

Company Awards:

  • Bourbon Women/Women of Whiskey: Becky Harris received the 2023 Legacy Achievement Award.
  • TripAdvisor®: They received the 2023 and 2022 Travelers’ Choice Award.
  • Loudoun Chamber of Commerce: Recognized as the Small Business of the Year in 2020.
  • Virginia Living: Awarded Best of Virginia in 2023, 2022, and 2020.
  • Maxim: Recognized in the Best New American Rye Whiskeys of 2022.
  • Men’s Journal: Featured in the Best Warming Whiskeys for Winter 2022.
  • Esquire: Included in the Hands-Down Best Rye Whiskey to Drink in 2022.
  • Wine Enthusiast: Featured in the Best Rye Whiskey for 2022.

Catoctin Creek Distillery Tour Information and Experience

Here’s a detailed overview of the tour experience and related information that Catoctin Creek Distillery offers to its visitors:

Tastings:

  • Visitors can reserve a seat for a tasting session that includes the distillery’s signature spirits, whisky, brandy, or cocktails.
  • Each tasting session lasts approximately 30 minutes. Coupled with the tour, which also lasts about 30 minutes, visitors can expect a total experience of around one hour.

Tours:

  • Tours at Catoctin Creek Distillery are FREE.
  • During the tour, visitors get to learn about the process of how the distillery’s whisky is made, right in Purcellville, Virginia.
  • Tours are conducted on the hour, every day that the distillery is open, and each tour lasts about 30 minutes.
  • Children are welcome to join the tour as long as they are accompanied by an adult.
  • It’s important to note that due to potential staffing shortages, there might be instances when the distillery may not be able to provide a tour.

Operational Hours

  • Monday: CLOSED
  • Tuesday: 1 – 5 pm
  • Wednesday: 1 – 7 pm
  • Thursday: 12 – 7 pm
  • Friday: 1 – 6 pm
  • Saturday & Sunday: Specific hours not mentioned.

Additional Offerings

  • Visitors have the unique opportunity to fill their own bottle at the Catoctin Creek “Filling Station,” an activity exclusively available in the tasting room.
  • The distillery store offers a variety of merchandise, including shirts, hats, flasks, and books related to alcohol. Additionally, visitors can purchase local maple Wildwood hickory syrup, Pratt Standard cocktail mixers, and DC Embitterment Bitters.
  • Reservations are recommended for both tours and tastings.

Rules & Guidelines

  • Per Virginia law, consumers are limited to four 0.5 oz pours and must be 21 years old or older.
  • No parties over 8 are permitted on Saturdays or Sundays.
  • Large parties are allowed only from Wednesday to Friday with prior telephone reservations.
  • Limited outside food is allowed, but only small snacks like chips, charcuterie, and cheeses. No meals or hot food are permitted.
  • Visitors are expected to be on time for their reservation. If late, the distillery reserves the right to give the reservation to another party.
  • Both dogs and children are allowed, provided they are well-behaved.

Private Events

Catoctin Creek Distillery is also available for private events such as weddings, birthday parties, and corporate functions.

Flask & Barrel Review of Catoctin Creek Distillery

I’ve been on my fair share of distillery tours, given my whiskey-collecting hobby, but Catoctin Creek Distillery? It’s something special. 

First off, the vibe of the place is just right – not too commercialized, but professional enough to know they mean business. The free tour? A total win. I’ve been to places where they charge an arm and a leg, but here, they’re all about sharing their passion without emptying your pockets.

The tasting session was the highlight for me. Their signature spirits had this authentic taste that’s hard to come by these days. And the fact that they let you fill your own bottle at their “Filling Station”? Super cool touch. It’s those little things, you know?

Now, I won’t say it’s the absolute best I’ve ever been to – because, let’s be real, I’ve been to a LOT – but it’s up there. Like, way up there. If you’re into whiskey, or even if you’re just curious, you’ve got to check this place out. Solid 4.7/5 from this whiskey collector. Cheers!

What To Do Nearby Catoctin Creek Distillery

Exploring the surroundings of Catoctin Creek Distillery in Purcellville, Virginia, opens a door to a spectrum of delightful activities and attractions. Here’s a curated guide to help you make the most of your visit:

Wine and Dine

Loudoun County, where the distillery is situated, is affectionately dubbed “D.C.’s Wine Country” with over twenty vineyards and wineries awaiting your discovery.

A short drive from the distillery could land you in charming wineries where you can sip on a glass of locally crafted wine. 

Additionally, there are numerous restaurants near Catoctin Creek Distillery, offering a range of culinary delights to satisfy your palate.

Distillery Tours and Classes

Catoctin Creek Distillery itself is a hub of experiences. You can engage in a tour of the distillery, participate in a bottle and label your own rye or bourbon session, or even take a cocktail-making class around the distillery’s horseshoe bar.

Local Events and Unusual Activities

Keep an eye out for local events and unusual activities happening around Catoctin Creek Distillery. From innovative supper clubs, and Beyoncé dance classes to secret pop-ups, the area promises a vibrant local scene.

Explore the Loudoun Valley

The distillery is nestled in the heart of Loudoun Valley which is rich in history and natural beauty. Whether you are interested in hiking, historical tours, or simply soaking in the serene landscapes, the valley has much to offer.

Family-Friendly Attractions

If travelling with family, the area around Catoctin Creek Distillery also hosts a variety of family-friendly attractions.

While specific attractions weren’t listed on the resources, a little local inquiry or a quick online search could provide a list of places that would keep both the kids and adults entertained.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Catoctin Creek Distillery?

Purcellville Family Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +15403380400. Their address is 110 W Main St, Purcellville, VA 20132. 

Magnolias at the Mill: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +15403389800. Their address is 198 N 21st St, Purcellville, VA 20132.

Anthony’s Italian Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +15403387072. Their address is 620 W Main St, Purcellville, VA 20132.

What hotels are near Catoctin Creek Distillery?

Purcellville Home: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +17038626314. Their address is 16764 Hillsboro Rd, Purcellville, VA 20132.

Springdale Village Inn: It has a rating of 4.9 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +15407518686. Their address is 18348 Lincoln Rd, Purcellville, VA 20132.

Stone Gables Bed & Breakfast: It has a rating of 5.0 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +17033431333. Their address is 19077 Loudoun Orchard Rd, Leesburg, VA 20175.