5 Northern Virginia Spirits Worth a Spot on Your Bar Cart

It’s VA Spirits Month, and yes, Northern Virginia has more than traffic and government buildings — it’s home to some seriously impressive craft spirits. These bottles are sip-worthy, brag-worthy, and perfect for your bar cart.

01 Catoctin Creek | Roundstone Rye Cask Proof

Purcellville, VA

Purcellville’s pride and joy. Their rye whiskey is spicy, smooth, and unpretentious. Gin lovers, their organic botanical gin will make your Negronis sing. Local + award-winning = instant win.

02 MurLarkey Distilled Spirits | Papis Salsa Borracha Vodka

Manassas, VA

Vodka with personality. Infused with veggies and spice, it’s basically begging to star in your next Bloody Mary or brunch cocktail.

03 Copper Fox | Peachwood American Single Malt

Sperryville, VA

Yes, they smoke their malts with orchard wood — yes, it’s magical. Rye and bourbon that taste like they’ve been kissed by Virginia itself.

04 KO Distilling | Battle Standard 142 Gin Navy Strength

Manassas, VA

Gin with serious punch. At 142 proof, it’s bold, botanical, and made for gin lovers who aren’t afraid to take their Negroni (or G&T) up a notch. A true showstopper for your bar cart.

05 A. Smith Bowman | Cask Strength Bourbon (Batch #4)

Fredericksburg, VA

High-proof. High drama. High awards. This bourbon clocks in at almost 140 proof, but don’t be scared — it’s all dark fruit, spice, and “sip it sloooow” energy.

Honorable Mentions:

Because narrowing it down to five was cruel:

• Old Ox Distillery | Dulles, VA —

  Approachable whiskey and gin that’s perfect for cocktails

• Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery | Middleburg, VA —

  Small-batch, artisan made spirits and cider

• Heritage Distilling | Manassas, VA —

  Barrel-aged rye and experimental bottlings

Northern Virginia isn’t just about wineries and breweries — the local distillery scene is thriving, creative, and definitely worth tasting. Celebrate VA Spirits Month by trying one (or all) of these local favorites. 🥂

Ampersand Challenge:

Which Northern VA bottle is your signature pour? Snap it, sip it, tag it (#TheAmpMagSpirit) — we might just feature it in our stories. 😉