At True Standard Distilling, our passion for rum shines through in every batch produced. Our commitment to excellence and crafting a pure American rum that amplifies the spirit’s true essence can be tasted in every sip.
Distilling is an art form fueled by our passion. We blend pure ingredients and skill to create not just rum, but an experience in every single sip. The result is an extraordinary spirit that showcases the natural character and depth of flavor of our rum. Every batch celebrates the art of distilling, designed to bring a little more joy into your glass.
A conversation with Ashley Allen, Founder
Tell us your business origin story!
True Standard Distilling was born of wanderlust, fire, and family. In 2007, amidst the lush warmth of Costa Rica, Brian Allen tasted a spirit that stirred something deeper — a love for rum that would shape his future. On the volcanic shores of Hawaii, that love was forged into craft, as he and his friends learned to coax magic from copper and heat. Years later, in Maryland, with Ashley by his side, the dream matured. Together, they breathed new life into a historic building, creating not just a distillery, but a legacy — a place where heritage, heart, and the art of rum converge.
What do you like most about being a business located in Frederick County?
From day one, the team has felt genuine excitement and support from both local residents and city leadership. The enthusiasm for small, independent businesses is palpable — creating an environment where innovation and craftsmanship are truly celebrated. For True Standard, Frederick isn’t just a place to do business; it’s a place to thrive, connect, and grow alongside a vibrant, welcoming community.
What makes True Standard Distilling unique?
We take pride in creating rum that is pure and simple. Our rum is made with pure water, cane sugar molasses, and premium yeast – no artificial flavors or sweeteners.
What do you with people knew about True Standard Distilling?
True Standard Distilling invites everyone to celebrate the grand opening of its tasting room in Downtown Frederick on May 29th, 30th and 31st! The weekend will feature live music, fine cocktails, and just the right amount of mischief. Guests can book distillery tours, join a rum & vodka flavoring lab, break a sweat in the barrel room workout, or learn to mix drinks in a cocktail class.
To reserve an experience and be part of the fun, visit truestandarddistilling.com/grand-opening.
Share some of your community involvement efforts!
True Standard Distilling was founded by Ashley and Brian Allen, a husband-and-wife team with a shared vision and a deep commitment to their community. As parents to three young children, they are especially passionate about supporting youth education and families in need.
One of the organizations recently welcomed into the distillery for a fundraiser was Wild Sprouts, a remarkable nonprofit dedicated to providing outdoor education for children. Wild Sprouts embraces the joy of childhood — encouraging kids to explore the natural world, jump in puddles, dig in the mud, and connect with the beauty of the outdoors. Beyond offering enriching experiences, they also ensure inclusivity by providing weather-appropriate gear to children in need, so that every child has the chance to learn, play, and grow — rain or shine.
What do you do best?
In our renovated, historic tasting room, we serve up more than just drinks — we offer hospitality. Our guests rave about our thoughtfully crafted cocktails, welcoming service, and the unique atmosphere that blends old-world charm with new energy. It’s the kind of place where locals linger, stories are shared, and every pour is a celebration.
Cocktails are created with our Dangerous Summer Rum. Whether you’re sipping our rum neat on a quiet evening watching the sunset or enjoying it mixed into a vibrant happy hour cocktail, our spirits are crafted to elevate the moment.
Whether you’re a rum enthusiast or just discovering the spirit, we love helping people find their perfect sip — and we do it with heart, craft, and a little Dangerous Summer spirit.
Is there anything else you’d like the Chamber membership to know about?
Check out our grand opening, it’ll be a blast!
Frederick Chamber Insights is a news outlet of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. For more information about membership, programs and initiatives, please visit our website.