Shop Southern Maryland Distilleries
Dive deep into the heart of American spirit production with a captivating tour of Southern Maryland's thriving distilleries. This region, renowned for its pivotal role in the history of American distilling, offers more than just a tasting journey—it's an immersive expedition into a storied past, a celebration of resilient tradition, and a toast to innovative futures. So, come thirsty for knowledge and flavor alike, and leave with a deep appreciation for the indomitable spirit(s) of Southern Maryland. From grain to glass, this is a journey you'll savor long after the last drop.
Tobacco Barn Distillery
24460 Hollywood Road
Hollywood, MD
Phone: (240) 243 9151
https://www.tobaccobarndistillery.com/
Hours: Sat & Sun 11am-4pm; Wed-Fri By Appointment Only
Veteran-owned Tobacco Barn Distillery in Hollywood, MD, sets itself apart as a genuine ground-to-glass distillery. Every corn kernel used in their Bourbons and Whiskies is grown directly on their farm. Grains not cultivated on-site are sourced from neighboring local farmers and suppliers. Even the molasses they use for their rums is procured in Maryland- the highest grade produced by Domino right in Baltimore.
Tobacco Barn Distillery leads the way in innovative spirits among their peers in Southern Maryland. Their 700mph Bourbon project involved flying oak barrels in a Sea Harrier Jet to investigate the influence of pressure and movement on flavor. The resulting enhanced bourbon flavor profile is attributed to the increased interaction between the liquid and the wood. Proceeds from this endeavor are earmarked for the Semper Fi & America’s Fund (https://thefund.org/). Another intriguing project, the USS Constellation Rum, saw rum barrels stored in the ship's hold for over a year. This unique aging process, influenced by continuous agitation and temperature fluctuations, imparts a distinctive flavor to the rum, making it the sole rum in the world produced in this manner.
Their commitment to sustainability and environmental protection is just as important. The farm and distillery are powered using an amalgamation of solar, geothermal, and heat recovery systems. Their farm's solar panels generate electricity, which significantly reduces the distillery's power consumption. An innovative recycling geothermal cooling system, combined with an integrated heat recovery system, curtails their process heat needs by a significant 20 percent. Furthermore, all cooling water is reused. Once the grains like corn, rye, and wheat have served their distilling purpose, they are generously donated to local farmers, finding a second life as feed for livestock.
Tobacco Barn Distillery's commitment to quality and innovation recently earned them top honors at the 2023 Heartland Whiskey Competition, clinching the top Farmer-Distiller award for their Single Barrel Bourbon. The owners, including Scott Sanders, a retired Navy Rear Admiral, and Dan Dawson, who runs the century-old family farm, bring their passion and dedication to every bottle.
Their product range is extensive, from the Straight Bourbon with its "Rye forward" profile to the Moll Dyer Cinnamon Whiskey, a nod to local lore. The Dancing Bee stands out with its infusion of local farm honey, resulting in a slightly sweet spirit that retains its distinct Rum character.
For those eager to experience Tobacco Barn Distillery firsthand, tastings and tours are available on weekends. While walk-ins are welcomed, reservations, which can be made on their website, are recommended due to the session limit of 8 participants. This ensures that each visitor can savor the rich history, innovative processes, and diverse flavors that make Tobacco Barn Distillery a shining jewel in Southern Maryland's distillery scene.
Southern Trail Distillery
27227 Morganza Turner Road
Mechanicsville, Maryland 20659
Phone: 240-249-6009
https://southerntraildistillery.com/
Hours: Thusday: 3 - 9 pm, Friday & Sat: Noon - 10 pm, Sunday: Noon - 6 pm (Closed Monday - Wednesday)
Southern Trail Distillery is a stone's throw away from the historic Three Notch Trail in Mechanicsville, Maryland. Owner Richard Copsey’s deep family ties trace back multiple generations here, as does Southern Trail’s crafting method, which harks back to his grandfather's age-old recipes while introducing innovative twists that appeal to the modern palate. This commitment to authenticity is evident in their choice of ingredients—only the finest locally sourced components are used, which not only ensures a superior product but also reflects the rich flavors of Southern Maryland.
Southern Trial Distillery is best known for their moonshine, which comes in an array of flavors that cater to diverse tastes. From the seasonal allure of Pumpkin Spice to the fiery kick of Honey Habanero and the festive zing of Peppermint, there's a moonshine variant for every aficionado. While moonshine is their signature spirit, the distillery also boasts a repertoire of other premium liquors. High Tide Vodka, Corn Whiskey, and Straight Rye Whiskey demonstrate their versatility and craftsmanship. The Southern Sippers Tropical Lemonade adds a refreshing touch to their already impressive lineup.
Those planning a visit should be cognizant of a few essential details. Only individuals 21 and over are permitted entry, emphasizing the distillery's commitment to responsible consumption. Dogs are also not permitted. The seating follows a first-come, first-serve basis. However, guests can bring along a folding chair for outdoor seating should the in-house options be occupied. Before embarking on your visit to Southern Trail Distillery, it is advisable to review the distillery's policies to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Copper Compass Distilling
4317 Charles Crossing Drive
White Plains, MD 20695
Phone: (240) 412-0571
https://www.coppercompass.co/
Hours: Wed & Thurs 5-9pm, Fri 5-10pm, Sat 1-10pm, Sun 1-9pm (Closed Mon & Tues)
Copper Compass Craft Distilling crafts small batches of rum in White Plains, MD. Spearheaded by the duo of April Toyer and her cousin, Herb Banks—a retired U.S. Navy command master chief with over 23 years of service—this venture celebrates their shared vision of reigniting demand for this storied Caribbean spirit. As a Black veteran-owned establishment, Copper Compass proudly stands as a beacon of determination and entrepreneurial spirit in Southern Maryland.
Their signature product, The Platinum Rum, transports the senses to a tropical paradise with its earthy sugarcane aroma, underpinned by subtle hints of vanilla and the rich sweetness of molasses. For those who have a penchant for the woody charm of whiskey, the Whiskey Barrel Finished Rum is a delightful blend, featuring a smooth oaky flavor profile that is elevated by hints of vanilla, cloves, caramel, and a final touch of cinnamon spice. The Coconut Rum, with its intense notes of toasted coconut flakes complemented by hints of cane sugar and sea salt, is a tropical delight. Another refreshing offering is the Lemon Drop, a zesty blend that beautifully marries the tangy flavors of lemon with their signature Platinum Rum and a hint of cane sugar. Enthusiasts should keep an eye out for their whiskey, which is currently in development.
Copper Compass Distilling has cultivated strong partnerships with the local culinary scene. Visitors can often find food trucks or local restaurants catering their events. Moreover, collaborations with catering and food delivery services ensure that guests always have a delightful array of food options to accompany their spirits.
Beyond their drinks, Copper Compass offers a diverse range of events and experiences. Board Game Nights and Football Specials are regular features, making it a favorite spot for both enthusiasts and casual visitors. Their tasting room stands out with its windows that give guests a glimpse into the state-of-the-art distillation and production facility. They offer tours, as well.
A Brief History of Distilling in Maryland
The tale of distilling in Maryland is as old as the state itself, with its roots tracing back to the 1500s when the earliest settlers crafted rum and whiskey. The Revolutionary War disrupted rum supply, spurring Americans to produce their spirit, giving birth to the era of Maryland Rye Whiskey. The state's Scotch-Irish settlers, faced with barley that faltered in the local climate, turned to the abundant rye crop, producing a spirit that would become synonymous with the state's identity.
Maryland’s strategic location, crisscrossed by trade routes like the National Road, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, and the B&O Railroad, allowed its distinctive rye whiskey to flow across the nation, particularly during the Civil War. The spirit's popularity soared post-war, positioning Maryland as the third-largest rye producer pre-Prohibition.
Prohibition threatened to dry the industry, yet Maryland stood defiant, earning the title "Free State" by resisting enforcement legislation. Post-Prohibition, the state's distilleries reemerged like phoenixes, though this resurgence dwindled post-WWII until 2008. Maryland has witnessed a renaissance of its distilling tradition since, with new distilleries springing forth, invigorated by the growing demand for craft and local spirits. These modern establishments pay homage to their rich history while boldly experimenting with flavors and techniques.
Learn more about Maryland’s distilling history:
https://www.visitmaryland.org/MD-distilleries
https://marylandspirits.org/about-us/