There is something deeply satisfying about sitting down with a glass of genuinely handcrafted spirits in a city that has been perfecting hospitality since the 1700s. Alexandria, Virginia has no shortage of remarkable places to raise a glass, but the Catoctin Creek Distilling tasting experience — rooted in the storied tradition of Virginia rye whisky — offers something that most bars simply cannot replicate: a direct, personal connection to the craft itself.
Catoctin Creek Distilling Co. was founded by Scott and Becky Harris in Purcellville, Virginia, making it one of the first legal distilleries in Loudoun County since Prohibition. Their flagship Roundstone Rye has earned a devoted following among American whisky enthusiasts, and for good reason. It is made entirely from organic rye grain, double-pot distilled in the old-world style, and bottled without chill filtration — which means the flavor stays rich, complex, and unapologetically bold. The Alexandria presence brings this artisan tradition right into the heart of the region, making it far easier for city visitors and locals alike to experience the brand up close.
Walking into the tasting room, you immediately sense that this is not a corporate showroom. The atmosphere is warm and unhurried. The staff — knowledgeable without being condescending — genuinely enjoy guiding guests through the lineup, which extends well beyond the flagship rye. Expect to encounter their Mosby’s Spirit (an unaged rye with surprising brightness), the Watershed Apple Brandy, and seasonal and limited releases that rotate throughout the year. A structured tasting flight lets you move through the portfolio at your own pace, and the team is happy to explain the difference between their 92-proof and cask-proof expressions without making you feel like you need a sommelier certification to keep up.
The Old Town neighborhood provides a perfect backdrop. After your tasting, you are steps away from the cobblestone streets, independent boutiques, and waterfront views that make Alexandria one of the most walkable small cities on the East Coast. Many visitors pair an afternoon at Catoctin Creek with dinner at one of the neighborhood’s acclaimed restaurants, carrying a new bottle home as a souvenir that actually means something.
What sets this experience apart from a standard bar visit is the sense of provenance. When you taste the Roundstone Rye here, you understand that Virginia has a whisky heritage stretching back centuries — and that Catoctin Creek is actively, thoughtfully reviving it. This is not nostalgia for its own sake. It is a living craft, evolving with each vintage and each new expression the distillery releases.
Whether you are a seasoned whisky drinker eager to explore Virginia’s growing spirits scene, or simply someone who appreciates a well-made drink in a welcoming space, a stop at the Catoctin Creek tasting room belongs on your Alexandria itinerary. Come with curiosity, leave with a new favorite bottle, and take a moment to appreciate that some of the best things in this city are still made by hand.
