Rye Revival
Celebrating Maryland's Whiskey Heritage
Celebrating Maryland’s Whiskey Heritage
Enter a world where history and flavor converge at “Rye Revival,” a unique event celebrating Maryland’s official state spirit, Rye Whiskey. Hosted in the grandeur of The Grand in Baltimore, once the esteemed home of the Stone Masons, this gathering promises an inspiring blend of tradition and innovation.
By day, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Rye Whiskey with seminars from industry
experts and inspiring talks from passionate small distillers dedicated to reviving this storied spirit.
As the sun sets, embark on a sensory journey through a curated festival of tastings, spotlighting the distinctive flavors of locally crafted rye. Join fellow enthusiasts and newcomers alike in this toast to Maryland’s heritage, and savor the bold spirit that’s making a spirited comeback.
Welcome to “Rye Revival”—where every sip is a story, and every story is a celebration.
Buy Tickets!Rye Symposium
9:30am – 4:30pm
Step into the historic halls of The Grand in Baltimore for the “Rye Revival” Symposium, where the legacy and allure of Maryland Rye Whiskey take center stage. This immersive day-time experience is designed for whiskey enthusiasts and industry aficionados alike, offering a series of enlightening seminars and discussions with renowned experts. Delve into the rich history and cultural significance of rye, explore innovative production techniques, and engage with passionate distillers who are redefining the future of this storied spirit. Join us for an inspiring journey that bridges tradition with innovation, creating a deeper appreciation for Maryland’s official state spirit.
Grand Tasting
5:00pm – 8:00pm
As twilight descends, the “Rye Revival” transforms into an extraordinary Grand Tasting event—a vibrant celebration of the distinctive flavors of Maryland Rye Whiskey. Gather with fellow enthusiasts in The Grand’s opulent setting to sample a curated selection of locally crafted rye expressions. Each sip unveils a story, taking you on a sensory adventure through Maryland’s whiskey heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, the Grand Tasting promises an unforgettable evening of discovery and enjoyment, as you connect with the community and toast to the region’s bold whiskey revival.
Agenda
Registration & Welcome Reception
Kick off the day with coffee and networking
Welcome to Rye Revival
Speakers: Eli Breitburg-Smith & Kelly Dudeck
Morning Plenary: History of Rye and the Importance of its Resurgence
Explore the roots and resurgence of rye whiskey with a Mid-Atlantic focus, covering Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia. Speaker: Carlo DeVito
Breakout Sessions
Regional Rye Varieties and Variation
Speaker: Dr. Pat HeistBourbon, Rye, and Single Malts: Tasting, Ordering, and Enjoying with Confidence
Speaker: Tracie FranklinCrafting the Perfect Rye Cocktail
Speaker: Keith Calvo
Lunch Break
Enjoy a meal and network with fellow attendees.
Breakout Sessions
Barrel Finishing Techniques for Rye Whiskey
Speakers: Ryan Norwood (Sagamore Spirit)Cooking with Rye
Speaker: Chef Eric "Egg" BerlinMarketing Perceptions of Whiskey
Speaker: Allen Katz, New York Distilling Company
Afternoon Plenary: Whiskey Wars – Bourbon vs. Rye Showdown
Host: TBD
Speakers
Eli Breitburg-SmithCo-Founder & Head Distiller, The Baltimore Spirits Company
Tracie FranklinSpirits Educator - Storyteller - IBD Dipl Distillation
Carlo DeVitoAuthor, "How To Drink Whiskey"
Dr. Pat HeistCo-Founder, Co-Owner and Chief Scientific Officer of both Ferm Solutions and Wilderness Trail
Ryan NorwoodVice President of Operations at Sagamore Spirit
Eric "Egg" BerlinChef, Culinary Educator
Allen KatzFounder, New York Distilling Company
Keith CalvoRegional Bar Manager, Atlas Restaurant Group
Grand Tasting
Arthur Wheeler Rye Whiskey
BSC Epoch Reserve Maryland Straight Rye Whiskey
BSC Epoch Rye Jerry Thomas Edition
BSC Epoch Toasted Rye Whiskey
BSC Epoch Distiller's Blend 2024
Cooperstown Select Straight Bourbon
Cooperstown Select Straight Rye Whiskey
Cooperstown Select American Blended Whiskey
Cooperstown Select Straight American Single Malt Whiskey
Elite Edition Canton Distillery (Brand) Jonathan Ogden American Single Malt
Jonathan Ogden Elite Edition Canton Distillery (Brand) Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Covalent Bourbon
Battle Bourbon Single Barrel Cask Strength
Dad's Hat Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey
Gray Wolf® Rye Whiskey
Gray Wolf American Single Malt Whiskey
Gray Wolf Single Barrel Select Bourbon
McClintock Bootjack Rye Whiskey
Meinelschmidt Maryland Rye- Meinelschmidt Bourbon
Old Line 51 Rye Whiskey
Old Line American Single Malt Whiskey Flagship 95
Old Line American Single Malt Double Oak Sherry Finish
Old Line American Single Malt Double Oak Madeira Finish
Sagamore Rye Whiskey
Sagamore Double Oak Rye
Sagamore Cask Strength Rye
Sagamore Bottled-In-Bond Straight Rye
Sagamore Port Finish Rye
Shmidt Limited Cut - Port Aged Rye Whiskey
Shmidt Cobalt - Rye Whiskey Rum Barrel Finished
Shmidt Crimson - Bourbon Tequila Barrel Finished
Shmidt/Inkwell Red Corn Bourbon
Tenth Ward Maryland Rye Whiskey
Our Event Sponsors
Thank you to the amazing local businesses and organizations supporting this great event.
Elevate your brand by becoming a proud sponsor of Rye Revival. This exceptional event pays homage to the rich heritage of Maryland rye whiskey and the art of distilling. By joining us as a sponsor, you’ll align your business with Maryland distilling tradition, craftsmanship, and community values. Showcase your commitment to preserving history and celebrating this craft by supporting these remarkable celebrations of Maryland’s distilling legacy.
If your business would like to support Rye Revival, please review the 2025 Sponsorship packet below.
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