FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOVEMBER IS THE FIFTH-ANNUAL OBSERVANCE OF MARYLAND SPIRITS MONTH
Celebrating local distilleries and their products all month long.
(ANNAPOLIS, Md.) – Shaken or stirred, every great cocktail starts with an exceptional spirit. Rums, gins and rye whiskeys are just a few examples of locally distilled spirits being produced by distilleries in Maryland. This November marks the fifth annual celebration of Maryland Spirits Month and recognizes the growth and impact of the state’s modern distilling industry.
“This year’s Maryland Spirits Month is a milestone – five years,” says Maryland Distillers Guild’s executive director, Kevin Atticks. “This industry is forging a new legacy for spirits produced in the state. There is a lot to acknowledge and celebrate.”
Residents and tourists are encouraged to take part in Maryland Spirits Month celebrations throughout the month. Distilleries and spirits retailers are hosting events and offering promotions focused on growing consumer engagement. From in-store tastings of local products to unique educational activities, this month features great opportunities to experience Maryland-made spirits.
“Recognizing November as Maryland Spirits Month provides Marylanders with an opportunity to support this great industry and the small business community responsible for the resurgence of crafting delicious spirits in the Free State,” said Jim Bauckman, director of communications at the Maryland Distillers Guild.
Distilling in Maryland has historically significant roots, dating back to the early days of America’s colonies. While the state’s distilleries were historically known for producing rye whiskey, Maryland’s modern distilleries craft dozens of varieties of spirits and liqueurs. Rye whiskey remains a popular offering and local producers are gaining attention for a growing number of award-winning products, including bourbons, gins, rums, and vodkas.
Today, more than 40 operating and in-planning distilleries represent an industry responsible for nearly $200 million in economic impact for the state. The Maryland Craft Beverages app includes an up-to-date directory and a passport that consumers can use to track their visits to these establishments. For the 2022 celebration of Maryland Spirits Month, app users will be able to collect a unique digital badge for visiting and stamping their passports at 10 locations.
A full list of distilleries, a calendar of Maryland Spirits Month activities, and details about the Spirits of Collaboration project can be found by visiting the details page located at marylandspirits.org. The Maryland Craft Beverages app is available for Android and iOS devices and includes a directory of the state’s distilleries.
About the Maryland Distillers Guild
Members of the Maryland Distillers Guild are a community of craft producers, dedicated to developing quality spirits and delivering a dynamic experience for visitors. We invite you to tour our distilleries, learn about our distilling processes, and sample locally-crafted spirits. Cheers to a rich heritage and spirited future!
The Maryland Distillers Guild can be followed on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Information about the Maryland Distillers Guild is updated at marylandspirits.org.
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