Long ago in Mount Pleasant – a quaint little neighborhood nestled deep within the heart of the United States capital – there lived a witch named Delilah Covenbrook. Residing in an apothecary on Lamont Street, Delilah was most pleasant, herself, and nothing like the stereotypical image of a witch. She was kind and generous, with a fondness for brewing potions that delighted people throughout the city. Her favorite concoction? A special whiskey infused with smoke and spice, rumored to bring luck and cheer to those who consumed it.
Every full moon, Delilah would take to the skies on her broomstick, carrying baskets filled with bottles of her enchanted whiskey. With a mischievous grin, she would drop these bottles onto the rooftops of random houses on Lamont Street, ensuring they landed safely by casting spells of precision. Her neighbors would awaken to find these unexpected gifts, their homes filled with the rich aroma of magical herbs and spices.
At first, people were wary, suspecting foul play or hexes. But as soon as they tasted the smooth, warm whiskey, they were overcome with wonder and delight. Word spread quickly of Delilah's full moon visits, and soon the entire village eagerly awaited the arrival of the witch and her magical gifts. And so, Delilah's reputation transformed from that of a mysterious sorceress to a beloved benefactor, bringing joy and camaraderie to the community with each drop of her enchanted whiskey.
As the years passed, Delilah's whiskey drops became a cherished part of Mount Pleasant's culture. To honor the witch and express their gratitude, the people of Lamont Street initiated an annual block party on Halloween (Delilah’s birthday) – a spooky tradition that continues to bind the community in celebration each year.
When Delilah retired in the early 1900s, she sold the whiskey recipe to her neighbor, William Barry, who further developed it to enhance its medical properties. He soon made it widely available in the “Reliable Family Liquor Store” in DC from 1909 to 1914, and embossed his name William D. Barry on the back of each bottle. Many assume the “D.” stood for Barry’s middle name, but it’s actually a nod to Delilah – a tribute to her enchanting spirit.
American Whiskey
The Lamont Street witch blended this herself in a smoky cauldron, or so the legend says. A hearty concoction of Bourbon, Rye, and American Single Malt (bottled at 47% ALC/VOL), Lamont Street is sure to make you feel the magic of the changing season. There is only good luck to be found in this bottle, inspired by the story of Delilah Covenwood, the witch who made her way to Mount Pleasant Club Whiskey through the creative artwork and storytelling of Heidi Phelps.
Label Art by DC Artist Heidi Phelps
Heidi Phelps is an artist, illustrator, and storyteller in Washington, DC. She’s also the creator of Black Violet Tarot, a modern, feminist tarot deck aimed to spark creativity. She even pulled some cards to inspire the story of the Lamont Street Witch.
From drawing and screen printing women-centered narratives from life and lore, to reading Goodnight Moon to her daughter for the millionth time, she firmly believes in the power of a good, compelling story to connect with people in meaningful ways. In that spirit (pun, intended) she hopes Delilah Covenwood inspires you to enjoy a nice drink with your friends and neighbors.
Heidi’s illustrations have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution, and published worldwide by Rockpool Publishing, in partnership with Simon & Schuster.
You can see more of her art on Instagram at @blackvioletdc or on her website at heidiphelps.art.