I consider McClintock’s Distilling one of Frederick’s landmarks. Located right downtown on Carroll Creek, this distillery continues the tradition of the Maryland spirits industry. We highly recommend that visitors to Frederick include this on their itinerary for a visit and tasting.
A fairly new section of this establishment has quickly become one of Nicole and I’s go-to spots in downtown Frederick. McClintock’s Back Bar is still relatively obscure and off-the-beaten-path spot and it might be the coolest place to get a cocktail in Frederick. But the secret is getting out fast.
McClintock's Back Bar (MBB) is a Place for Cocktails
This sleek cocktail bar is right in the heart of Frederick but neatly hidden away. It’s essentially behind the main McClintock’s Distillery through a set of distinctive red double doors.
The large brick building that houses the bar is an old garage. For a long time, there was no sign on the place. One day, we discovered it just by observing smiley, happy people walking in and out.
That’s changed; a sign and modest marketing is happening, and Frederick residents and visitors are quickly discovering the place.
Now understand, this is a place for cocktails. Don’t come here looking for wine, beer, or food (though supposedly there is a food delivery service). This is a cocktail bar for next-level cocktails.
If you’ve been to McClintock’s, you know their spirits are top-shelf quality. McClintock’s Rye Whiskey is a stable on my shelf, I usually drink it neat and its quite enjoyable. Their organically distilled gin, vodka, and cordials are also high-quality representations of Maryland spirits.
The Back Bar features these same McClintock spirits in a different way, in creative cocktails that are made in front of you with equally good ingredients.
The Vibe at McClintock's Back Bar
There’s both inside and outside seating at MBB, but head inside because this place has a vibe. There’s nothing ornate or fancy, but get yourself some seats at the bar (large comfy leather stools) because you’ll want a front row view of whatever elixir creation you will soon enjoy.
If you’ve ever been to a true speakeasy, one of those bars with a secret door that serves only invited clientele and drinks unique to that place, this is vibe at MBB. The dim lights, hardworking bartenders, and modern decor give the place an energetic buzz.
McClintock's Back Bar Cocktails
The star of the show at MBB are the cocktails, and choosing will be your most important (but fun) decision. Fear not, you can’t go wrong. These are elevated choices.
If you are a rye or bourbon fan like me, their signature Ideal Old Fashion is the play. You can get it with either rye or bourbon.
The Chai Pear Gin Sour is another of the featured selections and is usually Nicole’s favorite. Other exciting choices are Maryland Mule and Coffee Cure.
They rotate seasonal favorites. The menu last time we were there had a Mango Mistress (Oro vodka) and a Blushin’ Pink (Epiphany vodka), which seemed to be all over the room.
All of these cocktails showcase the quality of the McClintock products in an elevated beverage and modern setting that is 100% Frederick.
The Perfect Place for a Pre-Dinner Drink in Frederick
The combination of the experience and the location has probably made this place such a regular stop for Nicole and me. It’s the perfect place for a pre-dinner cocktail on your way to dinner in Frederick.
McClintock’s Back Bar is in downtown Frederick, off Carrol Creek, in the heart of it all. Strolling down Carroll Creek in the evening is a Frederick tradition, and turning into MBB for a cocktail is the best.
We are regulars downtown at all of Frederick’s iconic restaurants: Thatcher and Rye, The Wine Kitchen, The Tasting Room, The White Rabbit Gastropub, and so on. Strolling down Carroll Creek, and hitting up MBB for an Old Fashion or Maryland Mule before dinner seriously enhances your night out in Frederick.
Get there fast, because like most good spots in Freddy, once they are discovered you’ll have to share!
