Local distillery celebrates 15 years with super-limited XO brandy produced from local grapes

PURCELLVILLE, VA. (July 26, 2024) - - - Catoctin Creek Distilling Co., The Virginia Rye Whisky ℠, continues its 15 year anniversary celebrations with the release of its Catoctin Creek 1757® Virginia XO Brandy Bottled-in-Bond.  Crafted exclusively from 100% Virginia grapes, sourced meticulously from esteemed local vintners including Fabbioli Cellars, this brandy showcases the essence of Vidal Blanc and Chambourcin grapes.  Only 173 bottles were produced in this year's production, so it will be extremely limited, available through the Virginia, Maryland and Washington DC distribution area, the distillery's online store and in the tasting room while bottles last.

The 1757 XO brandy goes on sale to the public on August 2, at 8:00am.  It is bottled at 50% ABV.  SRP for a 750mL bottle is $89.

Matured under the rigorous standards of the Bottled-In-Bond Act, this 10-year-old expression embodies unparalleled quality and character. Each sip unveils a symphony of flavors, from the luscious fruitiness of Vidal Blanc to the bold, robust notes of Chambourcin, all harmonizing into a complex and nuanced palate. Catoctin Creek 1757 XO Brandy is a testament to Virginia's viticultural excellence and the artistry of small-batch distillation.

"Its deep amber hue and luxurious viscosity captivate the eye, while its aroma delights with tangy flamed orange peel," noted Master Distiller and Founder, Becky Harris.  "On the palate, candied citrus with a kiss of smoke and earth resolves into a hint of sweet tarragon, coriander, and golden raisin, culminating in a long finish with subtle pear earthiness."

"When we first started Catoctin Creek, way back in January of 2010, we finally had all of our equipment in place," recalled Scott Harris, Founder and General Manager.  "We'd spent months previously getting licensed, renting a space, and getting the equipment delivered and set up."

"In the rush to get all of that work done," continues Scott, "we completely forgot that we'd need something to distill for our first batch!"  Panicked, the Harrises turned to Doug Fabbioli, a friend and renowned local vintner at Fabbioli Cellars, north of Leesburg on Lime Kiln Road.  Doug had offered "If you ever need anything, give me a call!"

A friend in need is a friend indeed!  We called Doug, and told him we needed something to distill.  Without hesitation, Doug jumped in his truck with 50 gallons of pear wine.  Over the next six hours, we distilled out the most beautiful pear brandy from that pear wine.  Doug stayed for the entire distillation.

At the end of the process, Scott turned to Doug and asked, "Doug, you saved us!  What can we pay you for the pear wine?"

Doug replied, "Nothing.  I just want to work with you for the next twenty years!"  Amazing.

That kind of collaboration and friendship has set the standard for our work for the next fifteen years!  We continue to work with Doug to this day.

"When Catoctin Creek announced their efforts to open here in Loudoun, I knew how important it that was for our burgeoning wine industry," remarked Doug. "This addition gave us a place to have wine processed into brandy which enhanced our offerings at the winery as well as in the region. The quality level of their processing enhances our wine region even further for the foodies and craft beverage aficionados. Thank you, Scott and Becky, for joining our journey in your own style and craftsmanship!"

Here's to many more years!

About Catoctin Creek Distilling: Catoctin Creek Distilling Company, The Virginia Rye Whisky ℠, was founded by Scott and Becky Harris in 2009. Inspired by the history and craft of Virginia, Catoctin Creek made a name for itself as the first legal distillery since Prohibition in Purcellville, Virginia’s Loudoun County. The independent craft distillery is home to Virginia’s most-awarded whisky, Roundstone Rye, which has been presented gold medals across the globe and stands out through its old-world production methods. Catoctin Creek prides itself on making rye whisky, gin, and seasonal brandy from local grains and fruits, with spirits available throughout the United States, Mexico, Canada, Australia and Europe. The Harris’ intricate attention to detail results in high quality internationally acclaimed products, including seasonal releases and private cask offerings, that recognize the true craft of Virginia spirits. For more information, call (540) 751-3294 or visit CatoctinCreek.com. Follow Catoctin Creek on Instagram, Blue Sky, Mastodon and Facebook.