Tenth Ward Distilling Company

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A passion for craft spirits and an eye for community shaped the founding of Tenth Ward Distilling Company, a 100%-women-owned distillery established in 2016 in the historic Tenth Ward district of downtown Frederick.

Led by Monica Pearce, the company has grown to a staff of 30 over nearly a decade in business, building a brand rooted in creativity, quality and inclusion. From the start, Tenth Ward set out to bring a fresh perspective to a male-dominated industry, navigating the funding and access challenges that have historically confronted female entrepreneurs in the spirits sector.

Rather than retreating from those obstacles, the distillery met them by leaning into what distinguishes it: a commitment to exceptional spirits and a welcoming environment. Events, cocktail experiences and community collaborations have become as central to the business as production itself, drawing a loyal following and reinforcing the brand’s identity as a gathering place as much as a distillery.

Support for women extends beyond the tasting room. Tenth Ward actively partners with women-owned businesses, artists and vendors, and creates pathways for women in leadership and hospitality roles. Through mentorship and community programming, the company works to foster the next generation of women entrepreneurs and professionals in Frederick and beyond.

Recent milestones include expanding its events programming and cocktail offerings, deepening local partnerships and continuing to earn recognition for its spirits, all while sustaining the founding values that have defined Tenth Ward since its earliest days.

Honoree profiles were written using an artificial intelligence program and supported by forms completed by the honoree. Each profile was reviewed, fact-checked and edited for accuracy by The Daily Record’s editorial staff.

This profile is part of The Daily Record's In the Lead: Best Women-Owned Businesses in Maryland list for 2026. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. See the full list at thedailyrecord.com.