Logo of Twin Valley Distillers, Montgomery Co., MD.

Twin Valley Distillers

Region
  • USA, Maryland
Awards
  • Nominated for the Travel & Hospitality Awards 2022, DotCom Magazine 2021 Impact Company of The Year Award
Website
  • https://twinvalleyd.com/
Phone Number
  • +12404211115
Address
  • 1029 E Gude Dr Suite 105 & 105B, Rockville, MD 20850, United States

Exterior of Twin Valley Distillery with barrels and staff.

History of Twin Valley Distillers

Twin Valley Distillers, a pioneering distillery in Rockville, Maryland, USA, was established in 2013 by Edgardo Zuniga. This marked a significant moment in Maryland’s distilling history as it became the first distillery in Montgomery County since the repeal of Prohibition.

Zuniga, who started his career as a chef, developed a deep interest in spirits and their pairing with food over the course of his culinary journey. This passion eventually led him to leave the culinary world and embark on a new venture in alcohol production, culminating in the creation of Twin Valley Distillers​​​​​​​​.

Founding and Background

  • Year of Establishment: Twin Valley Distillers was founded in 2013.
  • Founder: The distillery was established by Edgardo Zuniga, a former chef.
  • Location: It is based in Rockville, Maryland, USA, marking it as the first distillery in Montgomery County since Prohibition ended​​​​​​​​.

Product Development and Specialization

The distillery quickly made a name for itself with its diverse product range, including Jamaican style rums, vodkas, corn whiskeys, and most notably, Maryland’s first bourbon actually produced within the state.

These products reflect a unique blend of Zuniga’s Costa Rican heritage and his newfound Maryland roots, offering flavors influenced by Central and South America, the Caribbean, and local Maryland traditions. This unique approach to spirit production has set Twin Valley Distillers apart in the industry​​​​​​​​.

Current Status and Operations

Today, Twin Valley Distillers continues its operations in Rockville, Maryland, emphasizing the production of high-quality spirits. A key aspect of their operation is the commitment to sourcing local grains, which not only supports the local ecosystem but also ensures the quality and authenticity of their products. This approach is reflective of a broader trend in the industry towards locally-sourced, artisanal spirits, resonating with consumers’ growing preference for craft distilleries​​​​​​​​.

Cultural and Historical Impact

The establishment of Twin Valley Distillers is significant beyond its business success. It represents a revival of Maryland’s long-standing relationship with whiskey and spirits. Maryland, known historically for its rye whiskey production, has seen a resurgence in this industry, with Twin Valley playing a crucial role.

The distillery’s efforts are part of a more significant movement of craft distilleries gaining popularity, as consumers shift their preferences towards products with local roots and artisanal quality​​​​​​​​.

Edgardo Zuniga’s journey from chef to distillery founder is a story of innovation, tradition, and passion. Twin Valley Distillers is a testament to the revival of Maryland’s distilling heritage and contributes significantly to the American spirits industry with its unique blend of local and international flavors.

The distillery’s commitment to quality and sustainability continues to shape its reputation and impact in the industry.

Awards Won by Twin Valley Distillers

Nominated for the Travel & Hospitality Awards 2022: This nomination highlights Twin Valley Distillers’ excellence in the travel and hospitality sector, showcasing their impact beyond spirit production.

DotCom Magazine 2021 Impact Company of The Year Award: This prestigious award from DotCom Magazine recognizes Twin Valley Distillers as one of America’s most impactful privately held companies, highlighting their significant contributions to the economy and their industry.

Twin Valley Distillers Tour Information and Experience

The Essence of Twin Valley Distillers

Located in Montgomery County, Twin Valley Distillers stands out as the region’s first distillery since the prohibition era. The distillery’s commitment to combining local grains, family traditions, and an urban setting is evident in their handcrafted spirits. Their deep connection to Maryland’s whiskey heritage adds a layer of historical richness to their offerings.

The Distillery Tour Experience

Tour Insight: The tour at Twin Valley Distillers was an enlightening journey through the processes of whiskey, vodka, and gin production. It was fascinating to see how they pay homage to Maryland’s rich history in distilling, especially its roots in American whiskey production dating back to the late 18th century.

Operations and Craftsmanship: The tour provided a deep dive into the distillery’s operations and the craftsmanship involved in creating its diverse range of spirits. As someone keenly interested in distilleries, I appreciated the detailed explanations and the visible passion in their craft.

Unique Offerings

  • Diversity in Spirits: The array of bourbons and whiskeys at Twin Valley Distillers is truly impressive, each reflecting the unique character of Maryland. The variety extends beyond these classics to include flavored spirits like their Port Antonio Rums and Limoncello.
  • Seasonal Flavors: I was particularly intrigued by their seasonal spirits. The distillery embraces Maryland’s distinct seasons, introducing new flavors throughout the year, such as mango lemonade in summer and eggnog in winter.

Visitor Information

  • Location and Contact: Twin Valley Distillers is located at 1029 E. Gude Drive, Rockville, MD 20850 Suite 105 & 105B, and can be contacted at 240-421-1115.
  • Tasting and Retail Hours: They operate from Tuesday to Sunday, with specific hours for tastings and retail. This flexibility makes it convenient for visitors to plan their tours.

Planning Your Visit

I recommend contacting Twin Valley Distillers directly for the latest information on tour schedules and offerings. Given the evolving nature of their operations, this ensures an updated and accurate experience for your visit.

My visit to Twin Valley Distillers was not just a tour but an immersive experience into the art of spirit-making and a deep dive into Maryland’s distilling heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned spirits aficionado or simply curious about the distilling process, Twin Valley Distillers offers an engaging and comprehensive experience that I highly recommend.

Flask & Barrel Review of Twin Valley Distillers

As a whiskey collector who has been on numerous distillery tours, I recently visited Twin Valley Distillers and I’d love to share my experience, which I’d rate a solid 4.7 out of 5.

First off, the setting of Twin Valley Distillers in Rockville, Maryland, has a unique charm. Being the first distillery in Montgomery County since prohibition, it has a rich sense of history that immediately caught my attention. Their blend of local grains and family traditions in an urban environment gives it a one-of-a-kind vibe.

The tour itself was a delightful journey through the art of spirit-making. As a seasoned visitor of distilleries, I was impressed by their meticulous process and the passionate way they uphold Maryland’s whiskey-making heritage.

Their bourbons and whiskeys, which they proudly tout as the cornerstone of their production, lived up to my expectations. Each variety I tasted had a distinct character, reflective of the Free State’s rich history.

What sets Twin Valley apart, in my opinion, are their flavored spirits. From Port Antonio Rums to Limoncello, there’s something for every palate. As someone who appreciates the subtleties of whiskey, I found their seasonal offerings particularly intriguing. The way they incorporate seasonal flavors into their spirits, like mango lemonade for summer and eggnog for winter, is both creative and enjoyable.

The staff were knowledgeable and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience. They seemed genuinely enthusiastic about their craft, and their passion was contagious. I also appreciated learning about their commitment to sourcing local grains, which adds a layer of community support to their business model.

What To Do Nearby Twin Valley Distillers

Rockville Town Square (1.2 miles): This vibrant downtown area offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It’s a great place to stroll around, grab a bite, or enjoy seasonal activities like ice skating in the winter.

True Respite Brewing Company (0.4 miles): For craft beer enthusiasts, this local brewery is a must-visit. They have an extensive selection of beers and often host events like trivia nights and live music.

Lake Needwood (1.3 miles): This picturesque lake is part of Rock Creek Regional Park and offers boating, fishing, and scenic trails for hiking. It’s a perfect spot for outdoor relaxation and activities.

7 Locks Brewing: Not far from Twin Valley, 7 Locks Brewing offers a wide range of beers. It’s a great place for a casual evening with food trucks often available on site during events and weekends.

Cabin John Regional Park: A short drive from Rockville Town Square, this park is loaded with amenities like an adventure playground, indoor ice rink, trails, and a dog park. The miniature train ride through the woods is a highlight, especially for children.

City of Rockville Farmers’ Market: Operating from mid-May through mid-November, this farmers’ market is a great place to explore local produce, fresh roasted coffee, cheeses, meats, and craft beers.

Beall-Dawson House (2.2 miles): This historic house museum, managed by the Montgomery County Historical Society, offers a glimpse into early 19th-century life with its preserved Federal-style architecture and various exhibits.

Rock Creek Regional Park: Surrounding two beautiful lakes, this park offers a wide range of recreational activities including hiking, boating, and picnicking. The Go Ape Ropes Course and the Needwood Golf Course are also located here.

Rockville Ice Arena (1.8 miles): For ice skating enthusiasts, this arena offers public skate sessions, lessons, and is home to various hockey teams.

Meadowside Nature Center (3.4 miles): Located in Rock Creek Regional Park, this nature center has educational and interactive exhibits, hiking trails, and a Raptor Deck overlooking the raptor enclosure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Twin Valley Distillers?

Guapo’s Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at (301) 977-5655. Their address is 9811 Washingtonian Blvd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878.

Taco Bamba: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at (301) 822-2334. Their address is 1627 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852.

MoCo’s Founding Farmers: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at (301) 340-8783. Their address is 12505 Park Potomac Ave, Potomac, MD 20854.

What hotels are near Twin Valley Distillers?

Even Hotel Rockville – Washington DC Area, an IHG Hotel: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at (301) 881-3836. Their address is 1775 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852.

Comfort Inn Shady Grove – Gaithersburg – Rockville: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at (301) 330-0023. Their address is 16216 Frederick Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20877.

Cambria Hotel Rockville: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at (240) 428-7943. Their address is 1 Helen Heneghan Wy, Rockville, MD 20850.