The 5 Best Distilleries/Cideries/Meaderies Around Frederick

A carefully crafted spirit can tell a story through its ingredients, production methods and connection to the place where it was made. Independent distilleries and other craft beverage producers combine traditional techniques with experimentation, creating distinctive products that reflect the region's agricultural heritage and growing interest in locally made beverages. From small-batch whiskey and botanical gin to specialty liqueurs and handcrafted cocktails, these establishments offer visitors opportunities to explore the art of fermentation and distillation. The Best of the Best recognizes distilleries, cideries and meaderies that contribute to Frederick County's craft beverage culture.

McClintock Distilling

McClintock Distilling produces USDA-certified organic spirits in downtown Frederick, combining traditional distillation methods with an emphasis on sustainability and carefully selected ingredients. Its lineup includes Forager Gin with hibiscus, lavender and citrus notes, Bootjack Rye Whiskey, Matchstick Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Epiphany Vodka and specialty liqueurs. Visitors can explore the distillery through guided tours, tasting flights and educational classes, gaining insight into the production techniques behind its collection of handcrafted spirits.

Springfield Manor Winery Distillery Brewery

Springfield Manor Winery Distillery Brewery operates on a 130-acre estate in Thurmont, where vineyards, lavender fields and agricultural production contribute to its diverse collection of craft beverages. The distillery produces lavender gin and vodka using blossoms harvested from approximately 2,600 French and English lavender plants grown on the property, with its lavender gin earning Double Gold honors at major international spirits competitions. Guests can sample beverages in a renovated historic barn or on the outdoor patio while enjoying live music, special events and the estate's seasonal Maryland Lavender Festival.

Tenth Ward Distilling Company

Tenth Ward Distilling Company is a woman-owned Frederick distillery specializing in unconventional spirits and ready-to-drink canned cocktails that reflect its experimental approach to beverage production. Named for the historic Tenth Ward of downtown Frederick, the company produces distinctive spirits, offers contract distilling and canning services and operates a cocktail bar where visitors can explore its creations. Its tasting room also hosts guided tastings, private celebrations and community events, while bottle and can clubs provide opportunities to discover additional releases.

Fordham Lee Distillery

Fordham Lee Distillery in Middletown grew from founder Bill's years of experimenting with bourbon recipes, with the business named in memory of his son, Fordham Lee. The farm distillery produces small-batch bourbon and high-rye bourbon alongside flavored cream liqueurs such as Blueberry Swirl, Orange Dreamsicle, Peanut Butter, Snickerdoodle and Chocolate Love. Its collection also includes apple, peach and orange crush moonshine varieties, and visitors can explore the products at the farm or find bottles through participating retailers.

True Standard Distilling

True Standard Distilling focuses on handcrafted rum in downtown Frederick, emphasizing traditional production methods and a commitment to using straightforward ingredients without artificial flavors or added sweeteners. Its distillers combine pure water, cane sugar molasses and premium yeast before using a hybrid copper pot still and barrel aging to develop the rum's character. The distillery welcomes visitors to its tasting room, offers tours and private event opportunities and produces the Dangerous Summer rum brand as part of its mission to elevate appreciation for carefully crafted spirits.

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