Liberty Pole Spirits, a distillery based in North Strabane, Pennsylvania, has achieved notable recognition at the Pennsylvania Farm Show. The distillery secured first place in the rye whiskey category for its Old Monongahela Full Proof Rye Whiskey and second place in the flavored whiskey classification for its special holiday edition spiced whiskey. This marks a significant milestone as it is the inaugural year that distilled spirits were included in the competition, which runs in Harrisburg until Saturday.
The Pennsylvania Farm Show features a wide array of exhibits, showcasing everything from livestock to artisanal goods. Among the diverse offerings are llamas, handmade clothing, jams, and homemade chocolate cakes, all vying for top honors. Jim Hough, who co-owns Liberty Pole Spirits with his family, expressed pride in their achievements. “To be the best rye whiskey in Pennsylvania is pretty nice,” he remarked.
The spiced whiskey that received second place was a limited edition crafted specifically for the holiday season, highlighting the distillery’s commitment to quality and innovation. Hough noted that while Liberty Pole Spirits has participated in competitions sporadically, these events are not the primary focus of their marketing strategy. “We’ve done some things in the past,” he explained, indicating a cautious approach to competitions that extend beyond state lines.
Currently, Liberty Pole Spirits does not distribute its products outside of Pennsylvania. Hough mentioned that broader competitions involving all 50 states “really don’t move the needle for us” at this time. The distillery has gained recognition for its quality, including an award from the U.S. Small Business Administration as the small business of the year in Western Pennsylvania.
Hough’s journey into whiskey making began as a hobby while he was employed in the finance sector. After establishing their first location on West Maiden Street in downtown Washington, the distillery now operates on Adios Drive in North Strabane, conveniently located near the Hollywood Casino at the Meadows.
Reflecting on the significance of local businesses, Hough stated, “People appreciate small businesses, local businesses.” His insight emphasizes the growing trend of consumers supporting local enterprises, which often leads to strong community ties and customer loyalty.
As Liberty Pole Spirits continues to garner accolades, the Hough family remains focused on their craft, celebrating each success while contemplating future opportunities in both competitions and distribution.
