Leopold Bros Maryland Style Rye Whiskey is a 110-proof, 10-year-aged American rye whiskey that resurrects a lost distilling tradition from the Chesapeake region. Crafted in Denver by the Leopold family distillery, this cask strength expression features a distinctive mash bill of 65% rye, 15% corn, and 20% Leopold Bros floor malted barley, pot-distilled and fermented for 120 hours to honor the floral, fruit-forward character that defined Maryland rye whiskey for over a century.

When Prohibition shuttered Maryland's last rye distillery in 1972, an entire category of American whiskey vanished into history. The Leopold Brothers, established in 1999 as family distillers in Denver, have painstakingly researched and revived this forgotten style, capturing the gentle character that once flowed from distilleries along the Patapsco River. Their extended fermentation process and careful pot distillation create a rye whiskey that stands apart from the bold, spicy expressions typical of modern American rye.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Honeyed florals, dried apricot, warm baking spices, cedar chest, rose petals
• Palate: Soft rye grain, fig and date sweetness, cinnamon bark, toasted oak, subtle pepper
• Finish: Long, with lingering dried fruit, vanilla bean, and a whisper of mint

Product Details

Perfect For

• Historical whiskey exploration: Discovering a lost American whiskey style alongside fellow enthusiasts
• Neat contemplation: Savoring the delicate complexity that separates Maryland rye from its bolder cousins
• Special occasions: Sharing the story of American whiskey's forgotten chapter with discerning guests
• Collectors: Adding a rare expression that bridges past and present distilling traditions

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Maryland Style Rye different from other rye whiskeys?

Maryland Style Rye whiskey is distinguished by its floral nose and softer, fruit-forward palate compared to the bold, spicy character of modern rye whiskeys. This historic style, lost when Maryland's last distillery closed in 1972, emphasized gentle complexity over aggressive rye spice through extended fermentation and careful distillation techniques.

Should I drink Leopold Bros Maryland Style Rye neat or in cocktails?

This whiskey shines brightest when sipped neat or with a splash of water to open its delicate aromatics. At 110 proof, it has the strength to stand up in cocktails, but its historical significance and nuanced flavor profile make it ideal for contemplative neat pours that honor its resurrection of a lost American tradition.

How does the 10-year age statement affect the flavor?

The decade of aging allows the Maryland style's characteristic floral and fruit notes to deepen and integrate with oak tannins, creating layers of dried fruit complexity while maintaining the gentle character that defined this regional style. The extended aging balances the high proof with sophisticated smoothness.

Is this whiskey worth the investment for collectors?

Leopold Bros Maryland Style Rye represents both historical significance and exceptional craftsmanship, making it valuable for collectors interested in American whiskey's complete story. As one of the few distilleries reviving pre-Prohibition regional styles, Leopold Bros offers access to flavors that disappeared for nearly half a century.

What should I expect compared to Kentucky or Pennsylvania rye whiskeys?

Unlike the bold, peppery rye whiskeys from Kentucky or Pennsylvania, Maryland Style emphasizes floral aromatics and dried fruit sweetness over aggressive spice. Think of it as rye whiskey's gentler cousin – complex and engaging but approachable, with the grain's character expressed through finesse rather than force.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.