Just when you think Frederick, Maryland, couldn’t get any more exciting for distillery and craft spirit lovers, along comes a bold new player: True Standard Distilling.
This new rum-focused distillery is the talk of the town, already turning heads with its modern design, craft rum spirits, and a sleek new place for cocktails. It’s a great new addition to the roster of distilleries in Frederick, MD, and a must-visit.
Visitors Guide to True Standard Distilling
True Standard Distilling: Basics
True Standard Distilling opened on May 29, in a former antique store building on N Carroll Street. The venue is located in the historic downtown section of Frederick, just a few blocks from Market Street, the main thoroughfare.
- Address: 10 N Carroll St, Frederick, MD 21701
- Web: TrueStandardDistilling.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/TrueStandardDistilling
- Phone: +1.301.501.5152
- Tours and Tasting Reservations: Link
- Buy Online: Link
A New Chapter in Frederick's Distilling Scene
Frederick and Maryland in general has a rich history in distilling spirits. Distilleries such as McClintock are especially known for their rye whiskey.
True Standard Distilling has burst on the scene with a focus on rum. Their Dangerous Summer brand of rum (and vodka) are carefully crafted in-house, with a variety of flavors and styles.
What Makes True Standard Unique
Once you visit True Standard Distilling, you quickly learn what they are about. Distilling craftsmanship, innovation, and a deep respect for traditional methods.
Specializing in small-batch rum, the distillery aims to bring something new and distinctive to the Frederick Spirits scene.
Here’s what sets True Standard apart:
Rum-Focused Excellence: From white to dark rum, each bottle is crafted with precision.
Sustainable Practices: A commitment to eco-conscious production.
Modern Tasting Room: Sleek, welcoming space for tastings and events.
Meet the Founders of True Standard Distilling
True Standard is the creation of Brian and Ashley Allen. Brian has a long and interesting love affair with distilling rum, going back to his time in both Costa Rica and Hawaii.
This couple have now brought their deep passion for quality distilling to Frederick, and have created a fabulous new venue for the community.
They believe in transparency, quality ingredients, and letting the spirit speak for itself. Their goal? To set a new standard in Maryland rum.
The Experience: Tours and Tastings
Nicole and I visited on True Standard’s opening weekend, which was full of buzz. We already love the place.
Visiting True Standard Frederick MD is a fully immersive experience. Here’s what you can expect when visiting the distillery :
Guided tours showcasing the rum-making process. Christian, the head distiller, led our tour and walked us through the entire process. Book online ahead. (Fun fact: Did you know rum is made from molasses?)
Thoughtfully curated tastings of their signature rums. We tasted in the barrel room, but you can do a tasting in the bar.
Speaking of the bar, True Standard has a sleek new one you’ll love. Read below.
Need an event space for private functions? They can host that as well.
A Great New Place for Cocktails in Frederick
Nicole and I love a great cocktail, and we love a great cocktail bar even more. True Standard has immediately become one of the best cocktail bars in Frederick.
The True Standard bar area is sleek and modern, yet retains much of the historic building’s character. Their menu of rum cocktails is fresh and exciting.
It’s worth showing up to True Standard solely for a cocktail before heading on to dinner in downtown Frederick.
What Else You Need to Know About True Standard Distilling
If you visit, you’ll probably take some bottles of Dangerous Summer home with you. However, know that you can also purchase online.
Also, check out the planned events True Standard has around town. Nicole and I love these kinds of locally curated happenings!
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, True Standard Distilling offers an authentic, flavorful experience that’s raising the bar for craft rum in Maryland.
Come see what Frederick’s newest distillery is pouring—and prepare to be impressed.
More Distilleries and Cool Venues in Frederick, MD
Want to pair your visit to True Standard with more Frederick Area Distilleries? Check out these other local favorites:
