No More Choosing! Celebrate Key and Monument City’s Partnership
The COVID-19 pandemic brought uncertainty to all of us, but it also introduced me to newfound passions. In those challenging times in 2020, I discovered my love for craft beer and the wonderful community that comes with it. Oddly enough, this new passion fits seamlessly with my love for the outdoors. Beer, the outdoors, and a chance to meet up with new and exciting people—what could be more perfect?
Fast forward a few years. Monument City and Key Brewing became two of the most special spots for me and my newfound love of craft beer. Whether I was “tailgating” in Key’s parking lot watching the Ravens over a pint of Dundalk Calling or gathering around the fire pits at Monument to enjoy a glass of Amongst the Pines on the coldest days, it was always a good time.
In October 2024, Key Brewing announced plans to move and merge operations with Monument City Brewing in Southeast Baltimore. These places had become more than just places to get good beers; to me, they were places to connect and unwind. That’s why I was so excited about the news of their partnership.
On Key’s final day on Gray’s Road, I had to make one last visit. After hiking North Point State Park, I headed to the taproom. It was a bittersweet moment, filled with nostalgia and anticipation of what was to come. The atmosphere was electric. Regulars were sharing their favorite memories and toasting to the future. Just a few days later, I was at the new location on N Haven Street, now shared with Monument City Brewing. The excitement of this new venture was clearly visible as both breweries celebrated this new chapter together.
While I’ll miss those visits to Gray’s Road, I’m thrilled I can now enjoy a fresh pint of Dundalk Calling and a glass of Monument City’s Amongst the Pines without leaving the taproom! I can now have both!!!
So, what does this mean for craft beer lovers? This partnership, fueled by a shared vision of sustainability, community engagement, and creativity, aims to expand both breweries’ product lines, keep jobs local, and better serve the community. With plans to introduce collaborative beers and expand their craft offerings, fans of both breweries can look forward to the same high quality and distinctive flavors that made them local favorites. I’m personally excited about the new creations that are sure to attract even more beer enthusiasts.
This partnership is a testament to the resilience of the MD craft beer industry. Especially in a time when we are still trying to escape from the lingering shadows of the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, like supply chain disruptions, inflation, increased costs of raw materials and economic downturns. Beer lovers like me, let’s raise a pint to the future success of Key and Monument City Brewing. A future filled with unique new recipes and new customers that share our love of the MD Craft Brewing community!
Don’t just take my word that these two breweries are amazing! Stop by 1 N. Haven Street and check them out for yourself!
Until the next pint,
Trish
