Liberty Pole Spirits, a distillery based in North Strabane, has achieved significant recognition at the Pennsylvania Farm Show by winning two prestigious awards for its whiskeys. 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 category for its special edition spiced whiskey. This marked a milestone as it was the first time distilled spirits were included in the competition at the Farm Show, which runs through January 13, 2024.
The Pennsylvania Farm Show, held in Harrisburg, features a diverse array of local products and livestock, showcasing everything from llamas to homemade chocolate cakes. The event attracts numerous exhibitors vying for honors, and Liberty Pole Spirits’ awards stand out in this competitive environment.
“It’s pretty nice to be the best rye whiskey in Pennsylvania,” said Jim Hough, who co-owns Liberty Pole Spirits with his family. The spiced whiskey that earned second place was particularly notable as it was released as a holiday special, highlighting the distillery’s creative approach to product offerings.
Hough shared that while Liberty Pole Spirits occasionally participates in competitions, it is not a major focus of their marketing strategy. “We’ve entered competitions here and there, but it’s not a big part of our marketing effort,” he explained. Currently, the distillery does not distribute its products beyond Pennsylvania, which limits the impact of larger contests that encompass national participation.
Liberty Pole Spirits has gained recognition beyond the Farm Show. Hough and his family previously received the U.S. Small Business Administration’s award for small business of the year in Western Pennsylvania. Hough’s journey in whiskey-making began as a hobby while he worked in finance, ultimately leading to the establishment of the distillery.
Initially located on West Maiden Street in downtown Washington, Liberty Pole Spirits now operates from Adios Drive, close to the Hollywood Casino at the Meadows. Hough emphasized the importance of local businesses, stating, “People appreciate small businesses, local businesses. I know a lot of customers appreciate local businesses.”
As Liberty Pole Spirits continues to garner accolades and refine its offerings, Hough remains open to future competitions, indicating that the distillery may consider expanding its presence beyond state lines in the future. The recent wins at the Pennsylvania Farm Show not only enhance the distillery’s reputation but also reflect the growing appreciation for artisanal products in the local community.
