A. Smith Bowman Distillery

Virginia's oldest distillery carries the weight of Commonwealth whiskey history on its shoulders. A. Smith Bowman Distillery in Fredericksburg has built its reputation on what they call "time honored traditions" learned from founding fathers, yet under current distiller David Bock, the operation pushes boundaries with experimental approaches that have earned global recognition.

History & Heritage

The Bowman Brothers established their distillery in Fredericksburg, Virginia, creating what would become the Commonwealth's oldest whiskey-making operation. The distillery's copper stills bear the names "Mary" and "George," honoring the parents of the founding Bowman Brothers. This personal touch reflects the family heritage that still guides the operation today.

The Whiskey

A. Smith Bowman produces Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey using American White Oak barrels for aging. Their flagship expression, Isaac Bowman, showcases the distillery's innovative spirit: a 92-proof Virginia straight bourbon finished in port wine barrels. This approach to secondary maturation creates layers of complexity that separate their whiskey from traditional Kentucky offerings. Under Bock's direction, the distillery continues experimenting with unique mash bills and various barrel finishes.

Why It Matters

When your experimental port-finished bourbon wins "World's Best Bourbon" in 2016, you've proven that Virginia can compete with Kentucky's finest. A. Smith Bowman represents the new South's whiskey renaissance, where respect for tradition meets bold experimentation. For those who appreciate good whiskey, this distillery offers proof that American whiskey excellence extends far beyond the Bluegrass State.