True Standard Distilling is a rum distillery and the home of Dangerous Summer. We do everything in-house, from distilling alongside our head distiller, Chantel, to bottling and aging barrels on-site. Our tasting room features seasonal cocktails, mocktails and is currently fully decorated with Valentine’s-themed décor through March 15.
Tell us your business origin story!
True Standard Distilling began as a dream rooted in a love for rum, a passion that took shape long before the still ever turned. The journey started with Brian’s discovery of rum in Costa Rica, where he first fell in love with its depth, character, and the stories each bottle seemed to carry. This spark led him around the world, from the sun-soaked shores of Hawaii to the streets of Maryland, always driven by an ambition to craft spirits that celebrated tradition, quality, and connection.
As life unfolded, so did this dream. Together with his partner Ashley, both in life and vision, the idea of a distillery became something more than a dream. By 2019, plans became blueprints, and by 2021, the future home of True Standard Distilling was secured. What started as hope and passion turned into a family endeavor, blending creativity, craftsmanship, and heartfelt dedication.
Over the next few years, the distillery took shape brick by brick. A custom still was ordered, construction began, barrels were filled, and the spirit of the brand, both literal and figurative, came to life. After tireless work and countless milestones, True Standard Distilling proudly opened in May 2025 its tasting room, inviting the community to sip, savor, and share in the experience
What do you like most about being located in Frederick County?
We love being in Frederick County because the community truly shows up. The support for local businesses is incredible, and the people here are genuinely invested in seeing small businesses thrive.
What makes True Standard Distilling unique?
True Standard Distilling is more than a distillery — it’s a place where friends gather, stories are shared, and good spirits are made. Our team’s passion for hospitality and quality creates an experience that feels personal and inviting, and our rum reflects that same care in every pour
What do you want True Standard Distilling to be known for?
We want to be known for exceptional rum, genuine hospitality, and creating experiences that feel personal, inviting, and community-driven
Share some of your community involvement efforts!
At True Standard Distilling, community involvement is a core part of who we are. We host A Little Rum Goes a Long Way, a series of nonprofit partnership nights where we collaborate with local organizations to build awareness and momentum around their mission. During these events, a portion of proceeds from featured tiki cocktails and bottle sales is donated directly to the partnering nonprofit.
In addition, we regularly open our space to host benefits, fundraisers, and community events for local organizations, helping them raise both funds and visibility. Our goal is to use our distillery as a welcoming neighborhood gathering place, one that supports meaningful causes, brings people together, and strengthens the community we are proud to serve.
What do you do best?
Our rum is what we do best. Through our Dangerous Summer brand, we make a range of rums, including Silver, Silver Spiced, Spiced, Dark Spiced, and Oxford Reserve, each designed to offer its own distinct character while staying smooth, balanced, and approachable.
Anything else you have coming up?
Yes!
We’ve gone all out for Valentine’s with full décor, specialty cocktails, and a cozy, romantic vibe—perfect for date nights, Galentine’s outings, and celebrating with friends.
2/4-3/15 Valentines at True Standard Distilling
2/7 Fire in Ice: Live DJ 1-9pm & ice sculpture displays 1-10pm
2/8 Live music by John Lewis 2:30-5:30pm
2/13-14 Valentines Weekend: Charcuteries, and photo-worthy moments at their Polaroid wall!
2/21 Take Your Shot Cocktail Class: ticketed event designed for singles!
2/21 Traffic Light Night at True Standard
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