Maryland breweries continue to take flight in 2019

07/07/2020| Samantha Foley

Maryland breweries continue to take flight in 2019

07/07/2020 | Samantha Foley

Craft brewing has taken flight across the nation, and with more and more breweries popping up across the U.S., it’s undeniable the business of brewing will only keep growing. Maryland is no stranger to this—according to the latest statistics from the Brewers Association, the state is home to more than 100 breweries at 2.5 breweries per capita, and two gallons of beer produced per person (21+, of course). One thing we know for sure is that Marylanders love their beer!

“Our state breweries offer a unique experience for Maryland consumers and visitors alike,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Kelly M. Schulz. “From producing top rated craft beverages, to providing job opportunities across the state, and becoming a key part of our local economy, breweries are a steadfast part of moving Maryland forward.”

While the COVID-19 pandemic has presented some challenges to this growing industry, Maryland breweries have risen to the occasion. Many of Maryland’s favorite breweries have come up with great alternatives such as providing online orders, delivery, curbside pick-up and regulated onsite consumption.

“The support of Maryland beer drinkers has been absolutely incredible in the wake of COVID-19. Our industry is thankful to have the most loyal and supportive fans that help us keep the lights on,” said Sarah Healy, President of the Brewers Association of Maryland. “The choice to drink Maryland brewed beer is about so much more than what is in your glass. From farmers and brewers to tap-tenders and delivery drivers, each pint is an investment.”

The folks over at Grow & Fortify and the Brewer’s Association of Maryland have even put together a comprehensive list of how to support Maryland breweries during this time.

In the spirit of supporting one of Maryland’s leading industries, check out some of these Maryland craft brewery stats that are sure to leave you feeling “hoppy”…

  • Did you know? Maryland breweries, wineries, and distilleries don’t just manufacture alcohol, but also double as tourist attractions. For more than six consecutive years, visitor spending has increased, with 60 percent of spending focused on food and beverage as well as lodging and transportation. The increase has been highly attributed to new restaurants and craft beverage destinations cropping up across the state.
  • The City of Frederick has become a tourist and beer enthusiast hotspot. Nominated the 7th best small beer city by Thrillist, the area is home to big names such as Flying Dog Brewery, Brewer’s Alley, Monocacy, and Rockwell.
  • Maryland’s geographic location is perfect for the state’s hot hops production. The best latitude for growing hops is between 35° and 55° north or south of the equator. Allegany County makes the perfect location, sitting at 39.6255° N, 78.6115° W. Central Maryland's largest brewery, Flying Dog, is also partnering with the University of Maryland's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources focusing especially on hops production. The partnership has produced the “Maryland Hop Growers Guide.”
  • In total, Maryland houses 112 craft breweries (ranking 22nd in the nation!) at 2.5 breweries per capita. The state also produces a whopping 301,966 barrels of craft beer per year at 2.1 gallons per adult (21 and over). If that’s not impressive, the economic impact is even more stunning with an $889 million economic impact in 2019 alone! For more 2019 stats, visit the Brewer’s Association State Database.

So, the next time you’re looking for a pint of satisfaction, look no further than your own back yard. Check out this database of Maryland breweries and learn more about the value of agriculture in Maryland through Grow & Fortify.

Learn more about Maryland’s craft beverage industry

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