Forgotten 50 Distilling sits on Old Ocean City Boulevard in Berlin, Maryland, carrying a name that honors the often-overlooked contributions of the 50th state to American history. Founded by a group of local entrepreneurs who wanted to bring craft distilling to the Eastern Shore, this operation opened its doors in 2018 in a converted industrial space that they’ve transformed into a working distillery and tasting room. The team focuses on small-batch bourbon and rye whiskey, along with vodka and seasonal spirits that reflect their Maryland roots. The story behind Forgotten 50 centers on founders who felt that smaller states and regions often get overshadowed in the craft spirits world. They set out to prove that quality whiskey doesn’t have to come from Kentucky or Tennessee, spending years perfecting their mash bills and aging process before opening to the public. The distillery operates with a 500-gallon copper still and maintains a hands-on approach to every step of production, from mashing to bottling. Visitors find themselves in a space that balances industrial functionality with Eastern Shore hospitality. The tasting room overlooks the production floor, so you can watch the distilling process while sampling their spirits. It’s the kind of place where the owners are often around to chat about their process, and the atmosphere feels more like visiting friends who happen to make excellent whiskey than a corporate tour experience.