“Diesel” Dan Leonard, patriarch of the Leonard family and creator of Leonard’s Carolina BBQ finishing sauce, grew up in Lexington, NC, the BBQ capitol of the world. Dan, and the Lexington town folk, were indoctrinated with two BBQ principles – wood smoked pork and “dip.” Dip, in western NC, is a vinegar-based sauce used throughout the smoking process, as well as a condiment on BBQ plates in the region. For years, “Diesel” Dan wanted to create a thicker, more versatile sauce, one that would be used to finish any kind of meat or fish. In 1996, after many years of trial and error, “Diesel” Dan finally perfected his homemade BBQ finishing sauce. The Leonard family and their close friends enjoyed this amazing sauce for decades, meanwhile the public had no idea what they were missing.

The wait was finally over when the Leonard family’s next generation decided that America had waited long enough, and Leonard’s Carolina BBQ was born. We hope that you enjoy our family tradition on pulled pork, chicken, ribs, brisket and anything else that makes your mouth water. As “Diesel” Dan always said, “Great barbecue is about two things — Passion and Patience.” So go on, America – put some passion into your grilling, be patient, and FINISH STRONG!