Distilled in 100-gallon batches, the 1757 Virginia XO Brandy has been aging since 2010 in 53-gallon Bordeaux red-wine casks, making it both Catoctin Creek’s oldest release to date. The 50/50 blend of Seyval blanc and Chambourcin grapes used in the brandy is sourced from Tarara Vineyards in Leesburg, Virginia, only 10 minutes from the distillery. Although this is not the first time Catoctin Creek’s founding husband-and-wife-duo, Scott and Becky Harris have produced their 1757 Virginia Brandy, it will be the first release as a Bottled in Bond product.

“We distilled this brandy during our first year of operation,” Harris said. “It epitomizes our attention to craft and collaboration.  From the very beginning of our company, we worked with local farmers and vintners to produce products that capture the rich flavor and heritage of our region. We are honored to release this product for our 10^th anniversary.”

Named after the year Virginia’s Loudoun County was founded, the eight-year-old XO brandy is soothing and warm, featuring rich hints of grape, raisin, date, fig, bread pudding, cherry and stone fruit. 1757 Virginia Brandy Bottled in Bond (100 proof/50% ABV) is a very limited release that will be available for $89.99 / 750mL at the distillery and through a limited number of select fine retailers across the Catoctin Creek distribution footprint.

Catoctin Creek’s four-year-old Rabble Rouser will also make its fourth debut next month. Although previously meeting the qualifications, February will mark the first time it’s labeled as “bottled in bond.” One of the craft distillery’s most sought-after whiskies, it offers a rustic flavor profile of clover honey, uncured bacon, deep earthy spice, sandalwood, white peaches, nectarines, peanuts and a hint of mesquite. Although bottled at 100-proof, the 100% rye mash is distilled to a lower proof, which captures many of the extra flavors typically lost to the distillation.

The name and meaning behind Rabble Rouser, referring to a person who inflames the emotions of a crowd of people, pays homage to the rowdy history that rye whisky played in the state of Virginia. Rabble Rouser Bottled in Bond Rye Whisky (100 proof/50% ABV) $95.99 / 750mL will also be available for purchase at the distillery and through a limited number of select fine retailers across the distillery’s distribution footprint.

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