Old Courthouse Distilling sits in a converted courthouse building at 204 Banjo Lane in Centreville, Maryland, bringing craft spirits to Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Founded by local entrepreneurs who saw an opportunity to create something unique in Queen Anne’s County, the distillery opened its doors in the mid-2010s with a focus on small-batch bourbon, rye, and specialty spirits. The building itself carries local history, having served the community in various capacities before its transformation into a working distillery.
The operation represents a grassroots effort to establish craft distilling in an area better known for its agricultural heritage and Chesapeake Bay proximity. The founders took on the challenge of navigating Maryland’s complex distilling regulations while building out production capabilities in their historic space. Their approach centers on traditional distilling methods adapted to their specific equipment and local conditions, creating spirits that reflect both classic techniques and regional character.
Visitors find a working distillery that balances production with hospitality, offering tastings and tours that showcase the grain-to-glass process. The atmosphere reflects the building’s courthouse origins while embracing its new identity as a craft distillery. You can sample their core lineup of spirits while learning about the distilling process and the challenges of establishing a distillery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.