As a teenager, Monica Pearce thought her hometown of Frederick “was really uncool.” But a decade later, when she walked away from an environmental science career, the historic Maryland city was the X that marked the spot for Pearce’s new venture: Tenth Ward Distilling Company.
“Frederick’s enjoying a revival and we’re happy to be a part of it,” says Pearce, who spoke at Kogod in April as part of the school’s Gamechangers in Sustainability series.
In a city and a state that are experiencing a craft spirits boom—Frederick alone is home to 6 distilleries and 17 breweries, including Flying Dog, the largest in Maryland—Tenth Ward, which opened in 2016, stands out for its mostly female staff and its focus on sustainability.
Pearce sources grain from local farmers for her canned cocktails and 12 year-round, seasonal, and limited-edition spirits, including Maryland rye and the award-winning Absinthe Nouvelle. And spent grain, which is typically organic, goes to a nearby dairy farmer for cattle feed.
“Our slogan is ‘ward off ordinary,’” says Pearce, who boasts a “whiskey woman” tattoo that inspired a line of swag, including T-shirts and totes. “It’s great to be home—and to be doing things our way.”
Neat! Here are Pearce’s favorite women-owned distilleries across the DMV:
Puerto Rico Distillery: Crystal Rivera and her father, Angel Rivera, opened in Frederick during the pandemic and specialize in artisanal Puerto Rican diaspora rum, or pitorro. A lot of people get into the alcohol business to drink with their buddies; the Riveras have a passion that taps into their heritage.
Republic Restoratives: Pia Carusone and Rachel Gardner’s Ivy City distillery is located near Gallaudet University and incorporates into its logo the American Sign Language symbol for the letter R. Theirs is the largest crowdfunded distillery in the country.
Windon Distilling: Located in Saint Michaels, Maryland, Windon’s signature Lyon Rum is consistently named among the best in the US. Owner Jamie Windon is a founding member of the Maryland Distilleries Guild and has helped pave the way for companies like mine through lobbying, legislation, and marketing.
Catoctin Creek: Cofounded by Becky Harris, Catoctin is the first legal distillery in Loudoun County, Virginia, since prohibition—and one of the first places I visited when thinking about opening my own distillery. They’re known for their Roundstone Rye.
Springfield Manor: Owners Amie and John St. Angelo hustle. They work seven days a week at their Thurmont, Maryland, distillery, winery, and brewery, and their lavender festival—held every June—brings in 20,000 people. Try their lavender gin—it’s delicious.