Stone Silo Brewery: A Rustic Farm Brewery with Excellent Beer and a Welcoming Atmosphere
If you’re looking for a new family friendly place to enjoy a well-crafted local beer in a warm and inviting setting, Stone Silo Brewery in Damascus, Maryland, is a must-visit. The name of the brewery is derived from the still standing silo of the pre-existing farm which dates back to 1931. The main taproom is housed in what used to be the old dairy farm's milk house. Brewmaster B.J. Pagnotta not only brews some exceptional beers but also played a role in constructing the brewery which opened in 2023. From painting the interior walls of the taproom himself and having a hand in the layout and design of the brewing spaces, you can tell that he takes pride in the brewery and what they have accomplished in the last two years. The beer selection is impressive, catering to all tastes. Their beer menu includes a variety of styles; featuring a unique Japanese Rice Lager, Belgian Witbier, Barrel-Aged Chocolate Cherry Porter, Kolsch, Oatmeal Stout, Sour, light pilsner and a variety of bold IPAs.
We had the pleasure of visiting for the release of their new 4648 Chocolate Milk Stout, and it was an absolute treat. Smooth, creamy, and boasting the perfect balance of chocolate and roasted malt flavors, this stout was an instant favorite among everyone in our group that tried it. My official score for the 4648 Chocolate Milk Stout: 4.5/5, which is an amazing score, unfortunately this disappointed B.J. who strives for nothing short of perfection, which I applaud. I also enjoyed Nehemiah Nectar, a well-loved Tangerine Hazy IPA with juicy citrus notes and a velvety mouthfeel. The attention to detail in each of these beers was evident, making for an enjoyable tasting experience.
One of the standout aspects of Stone Silo Brewery is its family-friendly atmosphere. The expansive outdoor area offers plenty of space for children to run and play while adults enjoy their drinks in the cozy main taproom, or on the heated patio in the back. The well-maintained stone firepits around the property add a wonderful rustic charm, creating the perfect ambiance for cozy evenings spent under the stars. The outdoor space is for sure a highlight of Stone Silo Brewery's appeal.
Inside, the taproom exudes warmth and comfort. The rustic decor, complete with a fireplace and a cozy couch, makes it an inviting space to relax and enjoy a drink. The staff greeted us with a smile as soon as our group walked in, offering to put tables together to accommodate us. On the side of the taproom there was a local vendor making handmade jewelry which was a delight for the families and children at the brewery on a busy Saturday afternoon. The wooden accents and handcrafted design elements throughout the space give it an authentic, farmhouse-style feel, which pairs perfectly with the brewery’s rural setting.
Beyond being a great spot for a good craft beer, Stone Silo Brewery is an excellent event venue. During our visit, a 40th birthday party was in full swing on the heated outdoor patio, showcasing the brewery’s ability to accommodate celebrations and gatherings of all sizes. The brewery also has exciting plans to host music festivals, vendor fairs, fireworks displays, and more events throughout the year, making it a go-to destination for entertainment as well as great beer.
Another unique aspect of the brewery is its deep connection to local craftsmanship. The separate barn brewing area was built with the help of local Amish builders, further emphasizing the commitment to quality and community. This dedication to hand-built authenticity is reflected in every corner of the brewery, adding to its overall charm and appeal.
While there was no on-site kitchen or restaurant, we were thrilled to enjoy some incredible BBQ from Tony's BBQ, a local food truck. We were able to order on our phones from the taproom and received a text message when the food was ready. I very much enjoyed the Carson Sandwich, a smoked pulled pork sandwich topped with creamy mac and cheese, jalapenos, cole slaw and a BBQ sauce on a Brioche roll. The sandwich was complemented further by a side order of tater tots. The smoky, savory flavors of the sandwich complemented the beers perfectly. There are various rotating food trucks at Stone Silo, and you can check their website prior to your visit to find out which truck will be there.
With fantastic beer, a welcoming and rustic atmosphere, and an exciting future ahead, Stone Silo Brewery is a must-visit for beer lovers and families alike. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick beer, attending an event, or simply enjoying a scenic farm setting in the heart of Damascus, MD, this brewery has something special to offer everyone.
**Final Rating: 4.6/5 **
The main taproom at Stone Silo has a wonderful rustic charm.
The beautiful expansive grounds at Stone Silo Brewing are wonderful for events and future growth.
