Catoctin Creek
Catoctin Creek is a craft distillery based in Purcellville, Virginia, known for producing rye whiskey, brandy, gin, and other spirits from locally sourced ingredients. The distillery has become one of the most recognizable names in Virginia's modern craft spirits movement, with a focus on organic grain and small-batch production.
The brand is perhaps best known for its Roundstone Rye, a flagship rye whiskey that has helped define its reputation. Catoctin Creek positions itself as a producer of certified organic, kosher, and grain-to-glass spirits made in the heart of Loudoun County wine and spirits country.
Catoctin Creek is a craft distillery based in Purcellville, Virginia, known for producing rye whiskey, brandy, gin, and other spirits from locally sourced ingredients.
Read more about Catoctin Creek
Catoctin Creek is a craft distillery based in Purcellville, Virginia, known for producing rye whiskey, brandy, gin, and other spirits from locally sourced ingredients. The distillery has become one of the most recognizable names in Virginia's modern craft spirits movement, with a focus on organic grain and small-batch production.
The brand is perhaps best known for its Roundstone Rye, a flagship rye whiskey that has helped define its reputation. Catoctin Creek positions itself as a producer of certified organic, kosher, and grain-to-glass spirits made in the heart of Loudoun County wine and spirits country.
History and Background
Catoctin Creek Distilling Company was founded in 2009 by Scott and Becky Harris, becoming one of the first legal distilleries in Loudoun County, Virginia, since before Prohibition. The name comes from Catoctin Creek, a tributary in the region, reflecting the distillery's strong ties to its local landscape.
The distillery operates from a restored historic building in downtown Purcellville, where it produces its range of spirits and welcomes visitors for tastings and tours. Over the years, Catoctin Creek has grown from a very small operation into a widely distributed craft brand while maintaining its emphasis on quality and local sourcing.
The Harris family has emphasized sustainability and authenticity, using organic rye and other ingredients and marketing their spirits as a true reflection of Virginia terroir and craft distilling traditions.
House Style and Production
Catoctin Creek's signature product is Roundstone Rye, a rye whiskey made from rye grain that gives it a spicy, grain-forward character. The distillery focuses on rye as its foundational grain, distinguishing it from Kentucky-style bourbon houses.
Beyond rye whiskey, the distillery produces gin (Watershed Gin), brandy, and various seasonal or limited spirits. Many of its products carry organic and kosher certifications, reflecting the brand's commitment to clean, transparent production methods.
The house style tends toward small-batch, craft-oriented spirits that highlight the natural flavors of their ingredients. Roundstone Rye is offered in different proofs and expressions, including cask-proof and specially aged releases, giving enthusiasts a range of options to explore.
What to Expect and Buying Tips
When shopping the Catoctin Creek collection, expect to find the flagship Roundstone Rye alongside higher-proof and special-release versions when available. These ryes are well suited both for sipping neat and for use in classic cocktails such as the Manhattan or Old Fashioned.
The gin and brandy offerings appeal to those looking to explore beyond whiskey, with the gin showcasing botanical character and the brandy reflecting fruit-forward craft distillation. Availability of specific expressions can vary by batch and release schedule.
For gifting or collecting, Catoctin Creek's craft credentials and Virginia origin make it an appealing choice. Because releases and proofs vary, it's worth checking the specific bottle details to match your preference for everyday pouring versus special-occasion sipping.