Allegany County’s food industry is flourishing as business-to-consumer models are evolving to business-to-business. Visit these four special spots, and you’ll soon see why their expansion is worth celebrating. After all, what’s better than enjoying delicious food and drinks on vacation? Being able to buy those treats at a store to take home!
1812 Brewery
13006 MASON RD NE, CUMBERLAND
Located on 190 acres along Evitts Creek, 1812 Brewery is the first farm brewery in the county. They grow their own hops on a 20-foot-high trellis system and store their vats and tanks in a converted barn built in—you guessed it—1812. The rustic barn also houses the brewery’s taproom. Outside, a large patio with a stage area offers views of the brewery’s iconic silos and rolling mountains. 1812’s canned beers are sold throughout Western Maryland and are on draft in nearly two dozen taprooms, bars, and restaurants. On deck, 1812 will expand their production with a new facility located on the farm. This will bring even more product out to the region.
Where to find 1812 on tap:
Basecamp Coffee Co.
FLAGSHIP LOCATION - 108 GREEN ST, CUMBERLAND | INSIDE THE ROSENBAUM 118 BALTIMORE ST, CUMBERLAND
A visit to Mountain Maryland isn’t complete without a stop at our local coffee roaster. Since its founding in 2015, Basecamp has stayed true to its mission of providing consistent and high-quality coffee and creating a welcoming space for customers. They only source beans from farms using ethical practices and create blends that have a reputation for smooth flavor and distinct taste. “Trail Mix,” an even blend of Colombian Dark Roast and Costa Rican Medium Roast with notes of graham cracker, green apple, and milk chocolate, is a crowd favorite. Basecamp Coffee can be found in over 25 locations, including coffee shops, retail stores, restaurants, hospitals, and private vacation rentals, and their newest venture is the opening of their second location in the Rosenbaum in the downtown Cumberland Historic City Center on Baltimore Street. They also sell their coffee online. “I believe that coffee is one of those things that is best if it's fresh and local,” said founder Hayden Ort-Ulm. “I am hopeful that Basecamp can become a regional household name — that people will readily purchase for their homes and as gifts. Maybe even say, ‘This is made in my hometown.’”
Where to find Basecamp Coffee:
Queen City Creamery
138 BALTIMORE ST, CUMBERLAND
Every destination needs a stand-out ice cream spot, and with award-winning homemade frozen custard and flavor combos like Caramel Old Bay, Lemon Poppy Muffin, and Kahlua Mocha Cheesecake, it’s no surprise Queen City Creamery is a popular spot for locals and visitors. In 2023, The National Ice Cream Retailers Association awarded the creamery Red Ribbon Awards for their vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry custard. Insider tip: ask for the adult menu to taste your favorite custard in a spiced milkshake or “floatini.” The business’ forward-thinking owner, Rhiannon Brown, cut the ribbon on this production space on Baltimore Street in November 2023. The 1,500-square-foot facility features an open-style storefront to invite visitors to see how frozen custard is made while ordering their new and old favorites.
Where to find Queen City Creamery:
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Rocky Gap State Park
Charis Winery & Distillery
16 HOWARD ST, CUMBERLAND
Charis Winery & Distillery was the first winery in Allegany County. Their award-winning wines include Chancellor, Nebbiolo, Pinot Noir, Pinot Grigio, Vidal Blanc, and Catawba. Located right off the C&O Canal Towpath and Great Allegheny Passage in the Shops at Canal Place, this lively spot is a popular place to gather and unwind with friends. Feel like a local as you enjoy a tasting on their picturesque patio. Charis has experienced tremendous growth—in its early years, they produced around 1,000 bottles per year. Now, their annual production is around 10,000 bottles of wine and 5,000 bottles of spirits. They began developing their own distributing division in 2023 and have products in over twenty retail locations in Allegany and Garrett counties as well as on their online store.