Southern Maryland Brewery Guide
Southern Maryland is rapidly emerging as a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts daytripping from the DC metro area, Baltimore, and Virginia. This picturesque corner of the Old Line State, where the waters of the Chesapeake Bay meet rolling hills and lush farmland, offers more than just scenic views; it's a burgeoning hotspot for breweries that are as diverse and unique as the landscape itself. From small, family-run establishments to larger, innovative brewing operations, Southern Maryland's craft beer scene is characterized by a commitment to quality, creativity, and community. Each brewery here tells a story, whether it's through the use of local ingredients, adherence to traditional brewing methods, or the pursuit of bold, experimental flavors. As visitors embark on their brewery tour through this charming region, they'll discover not only a wide array of exceptional beers but also a warm, welcoming community that takes immense pride in its local craft. Join us as we explore the hidden gems and beloved staples of Southern Maryland's thriving brewery scene.
Scorpion Brewing Company
929 Skinners Turn Rd, Suite 100
Owings MD 20736
http://www.scorpionbrewing.com/home.html
(410) 279-9700
TAP ROOM HOURS
Thurs & Fri 4-8pm
Saturday 3-7pm
Sunday 1-5pm
Scorpion Brewing Company, standing proudly in Calvert County of Southern Maryland since 2012, exemplifies a commitment to local ingredients and an intimate brewing experience. Brian Daily’s vision as founder With a strong desire to be hands-on at every stage of the brewing process, they manage the barley's farming, harvesting, and malting, which they’re able to do in-house thanks to a successful Kickstarter campaign to convert a used dairy tank into a malting vessel. Brian Daily, the visionary behind Scorpion Brewing Company, since 2012, has been the driving force, continuously experimenting and refining recipes. The outcome is a unique palate of flavors capturing the essence of Southern Maryland flavor.
The name "Scorpion" isn't merely a branding choice but resonates with history and pride. It serves as an ode to the Chesapeake Bay Flotilla's audacious stand against the British during the War of 1812. The flagship "Scorpion," a 49-foot sloop boasting optional oar power and armed with two long guns and two carronades, was scuttled in the Patuxent River in 1814, a symbol of defiance against potential British capture.
The beer offerings at Scorpion Brewing Co. mirror the company's rebellious spirit. From the newly released Tropical Harvest Blonde Ale and the zesty Key Lime Pie Milkshake IPA to the Märzen Oktoberfest beer with its toasted notes, there's a flavor for every palate. Notably, the Kentucky Common draws inspiration from a once-favored ale style near Louisville, offering a dark cream ale profile reminiscent of Shiner Bock.
The tasting room, designed with community engagement in mind, welcomes children and pets, reinforcing the company's inclusive vision. Old-school games like shuffleboard, free wifi, and adaptable seating arrangements, indoors or out depending on weather, ensure a comfortable experience for all patrons. Further fostering community ties, the brewery frequently hosts food trucks from Thursday to Saturday. To stay in the loop about these events or the ever-popular Trivia nights on Fridays, enthusiasts are encouraged to follow their Facebook page (@ScorpionBrewing)
Mully’s Brewery
141 Schooner Lane
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
https://www.mullysbrewery.com/
443-968-9426
TAPROOM HOURS
Wed, Thurs, Fri 3PM - 8PM
Sat 12PM - 8PM
Sun 12PM - 6PM
Mully’s Brewery stands as a testament to the dedication of Cindy and Jason Mullikin, who began this family-owned brewing adventure in 2012. With credentials from the World Brewing Academy and numerous accolades under their belts, the Mullikins wear their label of “certifiable beer geeks” with pride. With over a decade in Prince Frederick, Maryland, Mully's Brewery has solidified its name in the craft beer scene.
The emphasis on traditional styles combined with a penchant for experimental brews makes for a diverse beer selection. Their commitment is evident in each 500-gallon batch, which is meticulously weighed, mixed, stirred, and transferred by hand. Under the vigilant eyes of Brewmaster Mike and his team, the aim remains unwavering: to deliver world-class beer to enthusiasts, whether they're in the Tasting Room or anywhere across Maryland.
The tap list at Mully's Brewery is ever-evolving, offering a dynamic range of 16 or more distinct beers at any given time. Some of these brews are ephemeral, brewed in the spirit of experimentation and might not be repeated, making each visit to the brewery a unique experience. Their beer range is notable, with highlights like the Blood Orange Blonde, a refreshing blend perfect for a sunny day, and the Mully's IPA, bursting with citrus and mosaic hop flavors. Fruit enthusiasts can relish the Fruitart Berliner Weisse with its varying fruit combinations, while the Mowlawner Pils offers a crisp and traditional taste. To keep up with their latest offerings, enthusiasts are encouraged to follow Mully’s on Facebook and Instagram.
Mully’s Brewery aims to ensure every guest has an engaging experience. From live music and sports to partnering with food trucks and offering guided tours of the brewhouse, there’s no shortage of entertainment. Although Mully’s doesn't currently prepare meals, guests have the liberty to bring their own or order from local restaurants that deliver right to their seats. Complementing the lively atmosphere, the venue is friendly to both children and dogs. With games like Oversized Connect Four, Giant Jenga, and an array of card and board games, there's entertainment for all ages.
Ruddy Duck Brewery & Grill
13200 Dowell Rd
Dowell, MD 20629
(410) 394-3825
https://ruddyduckbrewery.com/
Hours:
MON-THURS 4:30-9PM
FRI 4:30-10PM
SAT 11:30-10PM
SUN 11:30-8PM
Founded by Carlos Yanez and Michael Kelley, Ruddy Duck Brewery & Grill emerged from a singular vision: the creation of a vibrant space where artisan crafted food and beer are delivered with unparalleled passion. Now, after 14 successful years, the establishment stands as a testament to the founders' dedication to culinary and brewing excellence.
Quality is the hallmark of Ruddy Duck. It’s not just about serving food; it's about curating a culinary experience. The chicken wings, a highlight, are prepared fresh daily to maintain their distinctive flavor. This ethos extends across the menu. Whether it’s the jumbo lump crab, chicken breast, pork, mahi, or salmon, the freshness is undeniable – everything is delivered daily and is never frozen. Commitment to excellence is further emphasized with their choice of “all natural” grass-fed steaks and hamburgers.
However, Ruddy Duck's dedication goes beyond the plate. They firmly believe in supporting their community. This is evident in their effort to source seafood and produce from local farmers whenever possible. The authenticity of their dishes is accentuated by their house-made desserts, pizza dough, and specialty “Chipas.” Every sauce, dressing, and soup is crafted in-house daily, ensuring that guests experience genuine, homemade flavors.
On the brewing side, Brewmaster Matt Glass takes center stage with an array of unique concoctions. From the newly introduced gluten-free Apple Ale to the summery Blueberry Wheat, every brew tells a story. Noteworthy mentions include the Ruddy Hell, a medium-bodied Bavarian-style Helles, the robust Indominus Imperial IPA, and the Stiff Tail, a crisp, medium-bodied IPA with amber hues.
But Ruddy Duck is not just about food and drink; it's about the experience. With trivia and live music nights, the ambiance is always lively. Its waterfront location offers stunning views, and guests can choose from comfortable indoor seating or enjoy the refreshing outdoor ambiance.
Jubilee Farm Fermentations
19860 Pear Hill Rd
Leonardtown, MD 20650
https://www.jubileefarmfermentations.com/
Farm Open Thursday 4-8pm
Jubilee Farm Fermentations stands as a beacon for experimental and artisanal beverages amidst the backdrop of a historic Maryland saltwater farm and the serene waters of Blake Creek. With a core philosophy of brewing “just enough,” they ensure every beer in your hand is as impeccably fresh as the local ingredients used to create it.
Jubilee's brewing ethos is rooted in evolution and experimentation. Their dedication to crafting beer with hops and grains cultivated at Jubilee Farm, and further supplemented with local sources, ensures each brew is a reflection of the land it comes from. Embracing an eco-friendly approach, their beverages are sold in returnable bottles and are both unfiltered and naturally carbonated.
JFF's lineup is focused on sessionable farm-inspired ales and a special treat for beer aficionados that prefer low ABV beverages. Their offerings, like the Winter Crush Pad, showcase a rich, sessionable dark ale, perfect for brisk, cold days. The Godsorten ("The Good Sort") is reminiscent of traditional Northern European flavors, juxtaposing old-world notes with the unique tastes of Jubilee Farm. Meanwhile, the Cedarsorten offers a taste of Scandinavian farm brewing, incorporating cedar branches from the farm in its brewing process. Other notable mentions include the hop-rich Frontier Farm, the deeply roasted Moonlite, and the tropical reverie encapsulated in the Miami Sunrise.
Opening its doors every Thursday evening of the year, Jubilee Farm Fermentations welcomes patrons to savor its unique range of farm-grown beer and wine. The brewery warmly invites children and well-behaved dogs to join the merriment. As an added touch, they occasionally offer fresh, locally-produced sourdough bread – an ideal complement to their beverages. Visitors are encouraged to pack a picnic and indulge in an al fresco dining experience.
Depending on the season, tastings might be hosted in the vine-adorned courtyard or inside the elegantly refurbished Harvest Barn. No matter the location, one can always expect an assortment of fresh beers on tap and an ample selection of bottled brews to carry home.
Beyond the beverages, Jubilee Farm Fermentations invites its visitors to connect with nature. A scenic 2-mile trail beckons exploration either on foot or by bike, with monthly cycling events designed to foster community and shared enjoyment of the great outdoors.
Southern Maryland Brews to Look For
Free State Ciders
http://www.freestateciders.com/
The allure of Free State Ciders, established in 2017, lies in its commitment to authenticity. Every drop of their hard cider is a result of the rich bounty harvested from the apple orchards of Larriland Farm in Woodbine, MD and produced at Free State’s facility in Great Mills. The dedication to creating genuine flavors using local produce translates into a line of hard ciders that both intrigue and delight the palate. Their range features unique and well-crafted flavors such as Cinnamon Oak, Elderflower, and Vanilla Bean. For those who seek a bolder taste, the Whiskey and Bourbon Barrel-Aged versions of their original Hard Cider provide an exquisite twist to the classic flavor. Though they don't open their doors for tours, their presence is robustly felt in St Mary's County. Patrons can savor the delightful ciders at various Farmers Markets, Restaurants, and Fairs scattered throughout the region.
LAD Farms Brewing
https://www.facebook.com/ladfarmsbrewing
Lillard and Daughters, abbreviated as LAD Farms, is not just another brewery. Operating from Leonardtown, this farm-based nano brewery is rapidly carving its niche in the local brewing scene. Their innovative approach to beer-making is evident in their unique offerings. Be it the robust tones of Dyer's Eve Black IPA, the seasonal charm of Sleepy Hollow Pumpkin Stout, the zesty delight of Vanilla Lime Sour, or the traditional richness of Oktoberfest, each brew showcases their knack for crafting beers that resonate. To get a taste of LAD Farms' genius, one doesn't need to venture far. Local restaurants, such as The Slice House & Brudergarten, feature their brews prominently. For those wanting a more direct experience, the brewery offers occasional drive-thru growler fill-ups at the farm, ensuring that enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite LAD Farms beer from the comfort of their homes.
GreenSpring Brewing Company
http://www.greenspringbrewingcompany.com/
Greenspring Brewing Company of Chesapeake Beach epitomizes the fusion of art, science, and cheer in beer crafting. Their dedication to quality and traditional brewing methods shines through their diverse beer lineup. Beers such as the hop-rich "Pound Foolish IPA," and the subtly sweet "Calvert Common Honey Wheat Lager" are just a few examples of their meticulous craftsmanship. Other offerings, including the "Black Lager," "UF Alt," "Tripel," "Lemongrass Pale Ale," and "Kentucky-Style Belgian Ale," further showcase their expansive brewing skills. Those eager to sample Greenspring's brews can find them at local eateries like Rip's Country Inn and Brick Wood-Fired Bistro, or for purchase at establishments such as Dunkirk Wine & Spirits and various Nick's locations.