Meet the Makers

MEET THE MAKERS..

From handcrafted tequila to locally distilled spirits and inventive mixers, today's home bar is as much about the people behind the label as what's in the glass. For Potomac-area hosts, these makers bring both standout flavor and story.

Grande Guapo Handcrafted Tequila
Bethesda native Cole Higgison turned 15 years in hospitality into a pursuit of authentic, additive-free tequila. After visiting nearly 50 distilleries in Jalisco, he partnered with fourth-generation Maestro Tequilero Jesus Correa in Amatitán.

Grande Guapo launched in Montgomery County in August 2025, overcoming an early setback when a shipment was lost in transit. Today, the line includes Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, Extra Añejo, a coffee liqueur, and mezcal. Bottles are hand-labeled by women in Amatitán, with proceeds supporting local mothers.

Song Dog Farm Distillery
Founded by David Harris and Megan Draheim, Song Dog blends agriculture and craft. Located in the Montgomery County Agricultural Reserve, the distillery uses locally grown corn and rye, including heirloom varieties.

Harris, a former political professional, and Draheim, a conservation ecologist, built the business around their shared passion for land and process. Their lineup includes whiskey, gin, vodka, and liqueurs, with their straight rye earning a gold medal from the American Craft Spirits Association. The name reflects coyotes-"song dogs"-a symbol of resilience tied to the land they studied and now steward.

3708 Spirits
Created by friends Dr. Mitchell Linton, Tony Ajayi, and Zachary Spence Jr., 3708 Spirits is a Maryland-crafted American agave brand rooted in culture and accessibility. Their motto, "Everyone Deserves Luxury," speaks to quality without exclusivity.

The name reflects their journey-three founders, a pursuit of perfection, starting from zero, and new beginnings. Their Silver and Gold expressions are made from Blue Weber agave and distilled without additives. In 2025, they earned top honors at the University of Maryland Dingman Competition and awards at the L.A. Spirits Awards.

The Black Swan Company
Founded by Shannon Gatewood, The Black Swan Company reimagines cocktail syrups as culinary ingredients. Inspired by her Caribbean roots and love of entertaining, Gatewood creates small-batch blends designed for cocktails, coffee, and beyond.

Flavors like jalapeño-lime, smoked pineapple-ginger, and grapefruit-rose bring unexpected depth and versatility, encouraging hosts to rethink what belongs in the glass-and on the table.

From local spirits to global craftsmanship, building a home bar today is about discovery. Start with what you love, add something new, and let every bottle tell a story.