Leopold Bros Maryland Style Rye Whiskey is a pot-distilled, cask strength American rye whiskey aged for ten years, bottled at 110 proof (55% ABV). This remarkable spirit resurrects the lost art of Maryland-style rye whiskey production, featuring a distinctive mash bill of 65% rye, 15% corn, and 20% Leopold Bros floor malted barley. The result is a floral, nuanced rye whiskey that pays homage to a pre-Prohibition distilling tradition that vanished in 1972.

Founded in 1999 by brothers Todd and Scott Leopold in Denver, Colorado, Leopold Bros has built its reputation on reviving forgotten American distilling traditions through meticulous research and artisanal craftsmanship. Their commitment to historical accuracy extends to their unique 120-hour fermentation process and the use of traditional floor malting techniques. This Maryland-style rye whiskey represents their dedication to preserving the legacy of America's lost distilleries while creating spirits of exceptional character and complexity.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Floral aromatics, honeyed grain, dried apricot, warm baking spices, subtle oak influence
• Palate: Soft and approachable despite the proof, dried fruit compote, gentle rye spice, vanilla custard, toasted grain
• Finish: Long, with lingering dried fruit sweetness, peppery rye heat, oak tannins

Product Details

Perfect For

• Whiskey Collectors: A rare revival of an extinct American whiskey style with historical significance
• Neat Sipping: Complex enough to reward contemplative tasting despite its approachable character
• Special Occasions: An exceptional spirit for marking meaningful moments and celebrations
• Whiskey Education: Perfect for exploring the diversity of American rye whiskey traditions

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Leopold Bros Maryland Style Rye Whiskey taste like?

Leopold Bros Maryland Style Rye Whiskey offers a uniquely floral and soft profile compared to traditional rye whiskeys. The nose presents delicate floral notes with honeyed grain, while the palate delivers dried fruit flavors with gentle rye spice rather than aggressive peppery heat. The 10-year aging contributes vanilla and oak complexity while maintaining the style's characteristic approachable character.

How is Maryland Style Rye different from other rye whiskeys?

Maryland Style Rye whiskey was historically known for its softer, more floral character compared to the spicier Pennsylvania and Kentucky rye styles. This difference comes from unique mash bill proportions and distillation techniques that emphasize elegance over intensity. Leopold Bros recreates this lost style using traditional methods including floor malting and extended fermentation, resulting in a rye whiskey that's more approachable and fruit-forward than typical modern ryes.

Should I drink this neat or can it be used in cocktails?

At cask strength (110 proof), this whiskey is best appreciated neat or with a splash of water to open up the flavors. While it could certainly anchor premium cocktails, its rarity, age statement, and historical significance make it more suited for sipping. The complexity and unique character of this Maryland-style rye are best experienced without dilution from mixers.

Is Leopold Bros Maryland Style Rye worth the investment?

This whiskey represents exceptional value for collectors and enthusiasts interested in American whiskey history. As one of the few distilleries producing authentic Maryland-style rye whiskey, Leopold Bros offers a taste of a lost tradition. The combination of 10-year aging, cask strength bottling, and meticulous historical recreation makes this a significant addition to any serious whiskey collection.

What makes Leopold Bros different from other craft distilleries?

Leopold Bros distinguishes itself through historical research and authentic reproduction of lost American distilling traditions. Their commitment to traditional methods like floor malting, extended fermentation periods, and pot distillation sets them apart from many modern craft producers. The brothers' dedication to reviving extinct whiskey styles like Maryland rye demonstrates their role as preservationists of American distilling heritage.

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