Just got this press release from Catoctin Creek. Big investment from a really big company….

Catoctin Creek Distilling Company, LLC, a distillery operating in Purcellville in Loudoun County, Virginia, announced today that Constellation Brands acquired a minority stake in the company This investment provides the company with new capital to grow production, marketing, and to provide more jobs in Virginia.

Catoctin Creek is a craft distillery that produces its flagship, award-winning Roundstone Rye whisky, among other products. The distillery’s products have received numerous medals and awards, most recently receiving gold medals from the 2016 American Whisky Masters in London and the Beverage Testing Institute in Chicago, along with a five star “Highest Recommendation” from F. Paul Pacult’s Spirit Journal.

“We created Catoctin Creek to produce award-winning 100% rye single-barrel whisky entirely from grain to glass,” remarked Becky Harris, the president and chief distiller of Catoctin Creek. “In order to expand our production and portfolio, we needed the right partner for the next level of growth. Constellation has a strong commitment to this category, and with their expertise and support, we look forward to bringing our Virginia whisky to the world with the same team and exceptional product quality.”

“As we continue to invest in and explore the high-end craft whisky segment, we are excited to partner with Catoctin Creek – producers of authentic and award-winning products that provide us with deeper knowledge of emerging opportunities,” said Ben Dollard, chief growth officer, Constellation Brands. “Working with passionate entrepreneurs like Becky and Scott Harris allows Constellation Brands to support and accelerate their growth while staying at the forefront of the evolving alcoholic beverage landscape.”

“We are excited about our future in craft spirits,” remarked Scott Harris, founder and general manager of the distillery. “When we started, our core mission was to produce the finest rye whisky possible.  Constellation understands that core mission, and shares our business values.”

Fisher & Company, of Menlo Park, California, initiated the transaction and advised Catoctin Creek in closing the deal with Constellation. The core management team of Scott and Becky Harris, who founded the distillery in 2009, will remain the same.  The company expects to begin expansion in early 2017, and will continue to operate out of its 120 W. Main St., Purcellville location.