7-26-2024 4:52am

DAYTRIPS: MOCO'S TRAIL

Explore the Tastemakers Trail in Montgomery County, Maryland

The trail has cozy farm breweries with rustic charms and panoramic views of the county’s 93,000-acre Agricultural Reserve. Along the trail, you can experience the county’s countryside and breathtaking views at The Crossvines, Windridge Vineyards, and Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyards.

The Tastemakers Trail features more than 20 craft beverage producers in Montgomery County, Maryland. This beer, wine, and spirits trail offers a diverse range of local craft beverage options, including those from several woman- and minority-owned small enterprises. You can engage with passionate artisan makers while enjoying a pint on a horse farm, discover the stories woven into the craft of a small-scale production nestled in a pine forest, or savor a palette of flavors showcasing our local apple orchards.

Spend the Day on the Farm

Waredaca Brewing Company is located on a working horse farm. Waredaca is one of 20 brewers in the state to receive recognition from the Maryland Farm Stewardship Certification and Assessment Program. Waredaca Brewing is family- and pet-friendly with lots of space for children to play while the adults can sit back, watch the horses, and take in nature all while enjoying a one of Waredaca’s brews including locally grown grain and hops.

Visit a Family Tree Farm

Elder Pine Brewing & Blending Co is built on a family tree farm and focuses on classic styles with a twist. Through the distinctive art of “blending” beers, Elder Pine creates a harmonious array of flavors, textures, and aromas. Enjoy a Summer Gold British-style ale while relaxing on the family farm! Elder Pine is dog-friendly for animal lovers and adult-oriented for the beer connoisseur.

Enjoy Rural Views and New Experiences

Lone Oak Farm Brewery is situated on 28.66 acres of bucolic fields with streams, a pond, and wide-open spaces. Lone Oak hosts family-friendly events like comedy shows, line dancing, and trivia nights. Relax with a Summer Solstice lager while taking in the scenic farmlands. Opening in Fall 2024, Fallen Oak Distillery will be an elevated, upscale experience next to the brewery.

Indulge in Craft Ciders on an Historic Tobacco Farm

Two Story Chimney Ciderworks is built on Luther Moore Sr.’s 1847 tobacco farm. Using seven varieties of apples and sustainable growing practices, this cidery makes refreshing hard cider. Sip on Mon Amour, a French-style hard cider, or Ruby Red, a hopped cider. Two Story hosts farmers markets, happy hours, and food trucks!

Gluten Free? Silly Yak Has You Covered

Silly Yak Brewing is Maryland’s first and only dedicated gluten-free brewery. Silly Yak works hard to create beers that are just like the most popular styles without gluten. It grows its own hops and corn; while the other ingredients are sourced from Grouse Malt House, which is a gluten-free malt house in Colorado. Silly Yak is located at Two Story Chimney Ciderworks.

Take a Scenic Drive and Relax on a Winery

The Crossv ines is located in the Ag Reserve, a premier dining and golf destination. They have a curated selection of wines made on sight. There’s even a custom grape-crushing facility. Join The Crossvines throughout the summer for the Summer Music Series with music on the patio on Fridays and Sundays. Dine in The Crossvines Farmhouse Bistro with their prix fixe menu and weekend brunch.

Windridge Vineyards‘ location was carefully selected based on a unique mix of geology and microclimate. They’ve been around for over 50 years and believe they have a responsibility to protect the land for future generations and work to minimize their environmental footprint in the crafts of its wines. On select days, Windridge offers cellar tours, special food trucks with diverse cuisine, and wine tastings. With views of rolling hills and Sugarloaf Mountain, you’ll feel like you’re relaxing in Napa Valley.

Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard is right at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain. SMV opened in 2006 for its award-winning vintages. They currently grow six white and six red varieties. Take a hike up Sugarloaf Mountain, then stop by to relax and enjoy a glass of wine on the way down.

Sip, savor, and explore Montgomery County like never before when you visit breweries, wineries, and other craft beverage makers along the Tastemakers Trail. Montgomery County sets the scene for unforgettable day trips and weekend getaways, just a quick drive from Northern Virginia.