Craft Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries That Put Maryland on the Map
Venturing about 30 minutes east of Baltimore, in the historic town of Frederick, you’ll find Brewer’s Alley, a cornerstone of Maryland’s craft beer revolution. This inviting brewpub, nestled in a centuries-old building downtown, offers visitors a chance to sample a rotating selection of house-brewed ales and lagers that capture the spirit of the region. The cozy taproom is a vibrant hub where locals and travelers mingle over pints made with Maryland-grown hops and malts. What sets Brewer’s Alley apart is its commitment to blending tradition with innovation, crafting approachable yet complex beers that reflect the changing seasons. Afternoon visits in the fall, when the crisp air enhances the malty notes of their pumpkin ales, provide an especially cozy experience.
Heading south toward Annapolis, about 45 minutes east of Washington, D.C., the city’s scenic harbor is home to the Distillery Lane Spirits. This boutique distillery offers more than just tastings; it invites guests to explore the art of small-batch whiskey and gin production. Nestled in a rustic warehouse along the waterfront, the distillery tour reveals the copper pot stills and aging barrels that give their spirits a distinctive smoothness, reflecting Maryland’s rich grain heritage. The location’s proximity to Chesapeake Bay adds a maritime layer to the tasting notes, which become particularly evocative in the warm glow of a late spring evening, when the scents of salt air and botanicals mingle on the breeze.
In the heart of Garrett County, about two hours northwest of Cumberland, Wisp Resort’s nearby Deep Creek Lake Winery offers a unique blend of mountain scenery and viniculture. This small family-owned winery specializes in cold-hardy grape varieties suited to Maryland’s Appalachian foothills. Visitors can stroll the vineyard trails that overlook the shimmering lake, taking in the rugged terrain and fresh pine-scented air. The winery’s tasting room, with its large windows framing the hills beyond, serves wines that carry the crispness of the mountain air and a hint of local wild berries. Autumn is a spectacular time here, as the fall foliage mirrors the deep reds and golds in the glass.
In the bustling city of Baltimore, just a short drive from downtown, Union Craft Brewing stands as a beacon of the state’s craft beer scene. Located in the Hampden neighborhood, this brewery is renowned for its engaging community vibe and bold, hop-forward beers. Visitors can experience the lively taproom, where artful murals and reclaimed industrial décor set the stage for sampling brews like the flagship Union Ale or seasonal experiments. The brewery often hosts outdoor events on sunny weekends, making spring and summer the ideal times to soak up Baltimore’s eclectic energy alongside a fresh pint.
Traveling about an hour southeast from Baltimore, the town of St. Michaels on Maryland’s Eastern Shore is home to the Chesapeake Bay Winery. This charming spot captures the essence of the region’s maritime climate, which imparts a unique minerality to its wines. The tasting room overlooks the Miles River, where sailboats drift lazily in the afternoon light. The winery focuses on blends that showcase local grapes alongside traditional varieties, producing crisp whites and rich reds that pair perfectly with the fresh seafood for which the area is famous. Visiting in late spring enhances the experience as the surrounding gardens bloom and the riverside ambiance warms.
Further west, in the scenic town of Frederick, Black Ankle Vineyards offers a hands-on winery experience amid rolling farmland about 50 miles northwest of Washington, D.C. The vineyard is set on a historic homestead, where visitors can wander the expansive grounds and learn about sustainable grape growing. Their tasting room features an eclectic selection, including bold reds and aromatic whites, often accompanied by food pairings focusing on Maryland cheeses and charcuterie. Summer afternoons, when the sun filters through the tall oaks, create a perfect setting for enjoying a glass on the terrace.
Lastly, in the southern part of the state near the picturesque town of Solomons, about an hour from Washington, D.C., the Calvert Brewing Company invites visitors into a lively, community-centered space. Situated near the Patuxent River waterfront, the brewery has carved out a niche producing approachable, sessionable beers that celebrate the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay area. The taproom buzzes with chatter and live music, especially on warm summer evenings when locals and tourists gather on the outdoor patio. The brewery’s close ties to the local fishing culture make it a perfect spot to savor fresh seafood paired with a crisp craft beer, embodying Maryland’s deep connection between land and water.