News and Press Releases - 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Purcellville, Virginia (May 15, 2026) — Catoctin Creek Distilling Company today announced a comprehensive refresh of its tasting room experience, featuring extended hours, an expanded cocktail and mocktail program, enhanced guest hospitality, and a Grand Re-Opening celebration scheduled for July 1st.

Designed to transform the tasting room from a traditional sampling counter into a welcoming cocktail destination, the updates focus on comfort, service, and a more refined presentation of the distillery’s award-winning spirits.  The changes are largely due to the recent passage of Virginia SB424, signed by Governor Abigail Spanberger, which amended Virginia Code §4.1-119 to allow distilleries to pour larger amounts of their spirits per customer. Catoctin Creek would like to thank the bill sponsors, Sen. Russet Perry and Del. Marcus Simon, and also thank our local representatives, Dels. Delores Oates and John McAuliff and Sen. Timmy French, for their support.

What Guests Can Expect

• Extended hours to better serve evening and weekend visitors - View the new Hours

• A broader cocktail menu highlighting house spirits, classic cocktails and seasonal creativity - View the new Menu

• A dedicated mocktail fridge with premium non-alcoholic options including seltzer, soda, and NA beer

• Thoughtful hospitality touches at every table, including complimentary snacks

• Additional seating and improved table layouts for comfort and flow

• Bottles of all spirits will still be available for purchase at the distillery

To best assist us in planning our staffing, we ask visitors make reservations on our web site, although walk-ins will always be welcomed when space is available. Large groups of more than eight should contact the distillery for reservations.

Now Hiring Bartenders!

As part of the expansion, Catoctin Creek is actively hiring bartenders who are passionate about hospitality, craft spirits, and guest engagement.  Please contact us if you are intersted.  Tipped wage starts at $13/hr PLUS tips.

Grand Re-Opening Event

A Grand Re-Opening celebration will invite town, county, state, and congressional officials, along with members of the community and local media, to experience the refreshed space firsthand.

This event will be scheduled for 1pm on Wednesday, July 1st at the distillery on 120 W Main St, Purcellville, Virginia.  We will offer half-price specials on all menu items that day.

“This refresh is about elevating the way guests experience Catoctin Creek,” said Scott Harris, Founder and General Manager. “We want our tasting room to feel like the best seat in Loudoun County for enjoying a craft cocktail, learning about spirits, and spending time with friends.”

Media & Community Outreach

Catoctin Creek will share news of the refresh, expanded hours, and hiring initiative with regional media outlets and community publications across Northern Virginia.

For updated hours, menus, and group table reservations, visit:
www.catoctincreek.com

About Catoctin Creek Distilling Company

Founded in 2009 by Scott and Becky Harris, Catoctin Creek Distilling Company is Virginia’s first legal distillery since Prohibition. Based in historic Purcellville, Virginia, the distillery produces award-winning, Virginia spirits, including its flagship Roundstone Rye whisky. Committed to sustainability, transparency, and traditional production methods, Catoctin Creek distributes its products nationwide and internationally while remaining proudly independent and family-owned. For more information, visit www.catoctincreek.com.

Media Contact:
Scott Harris
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Phone: (540) 751-8404

We were happy to be named one of the top tasting room in 2026 by Craft Spirits magazine!

Built in 1921, the structure was Purcellville's first Buick dealership at a time when cars looked like horseless carriages. This space was used for car sales for 51 years, and the Catoctin Creek team has since incorporated that history into the tasting room. It is a bold architectural statement showcasing classic industrial and art moderne elements that hearken back to the 1920s. Tables made from old automotive parts tie in that history, while the period glass windows showcase the distillery machinery in the adjacent room.

You can see the full review, here.

Celebrating women's history month, The Local Palate pulls together several recipes from local women chefs. Molly Hardwick writes:

Becky Harris, co-founder of Catoctin Creek Distillery, shares this recipe for a twist on a classic Manhattan. Made with a chile pepper infusion and three types of local Virginia honey, the sweet heat of Catoctin Creek Hot Honey Rye pairs with chocolate bitters and vermouth to give this cocktail floral sweetness, warm spice, and subtle layers of dark fruit and cocoa. The result is a smooth cocktail that’s perfect for slow sipping.

Catoctin Creek Hot Honey Manhattan

2 oz Catoctin Creek Hot Honey Rye Whisky
1 oz sweet vermouth
Dash of chocolate bitters

Combine all in a mixing glass with ice, and strain into a chilled coupe. Garnish with a cocktail cherry.

You can read the full article here, here.

Whiskey Social recently did a review of the Bottle Club Exclusive -- Cask Proof Rye Whisky Finished in a Norton Brandy Barrel.  This is one of our Cornerstone Club releases, and is only available to club members.

Their review had some great tasting notes:

Aroma: Elegant and bold with notes of red apple, caramel, and a hint of sherry

Palate: Velvety at first, evolving into rich waves of port, clove, cinnamon, and allspice

Finish: Lingering sweetness with subtle cloves and a soft hint of clover

For more information about our club memberships and how to get these rare bottles, click here.

You can see the full review, here.