St. Mary’s County will be in the spotlight as Maryland Public Television’s (MPT) acclaimed series Maryland Farm & Harvest features the Tobacco Barn Distillery in Hollywood during its December 10 episode. The show, now in its 12th season, continues to explore the diverse agricultural landscape of Maryland and will showcase farms and projects in Allegany, Worcester, and St. Mary’s counties.
Airing Tuesdays at 7 p.m. on MPT-HD and online, the series dives into the lives, technologies, and traditions shaping Maryland’s agricultural industry, the state’s leading commercial sector. The December 10 episode introduces viewers to stories ranging from a cherished farming parade in Worcester County to an innovative aquaponics lab in Allegany County, but it’s the segment in St. Mary’s County that highlights a unique veteran-owned distillery and its craft bourbon.
Tobacco Barn Distillery: Craft and Growth
Segment host Al Spoler revisits Tobacco Barn Distillery, a Hollywood-based operation that first appeared on Maryland Farm & Harvest in its sixth season. During that initial visit, the distillery was still in its early years of producing rye bourbon. This time, viewers will see the impressive strides the business has made since then, including its recognition in 2023 as “Top Farmer-Distiller” by the American Craft Spirits Association.
Despite its growth, the distillery remains committed to its small-batch philosophy and Maryland roots. From cultivating its grains to aging bourbon in oak barrels on-site, the operation exemplifies dedication to quality and community.
A preview of the episode, including more about Tobacco Barn Distillery, is available at mpt.org/farm.
A Statewide Agricultural Journey
Since its debut in 2013, Maryland Farm & Harvest has drawn over 16 million viewers, traveling to nearly 500 farms and agricultural locations across the state. Each episode balances education and entertainment, bringing viewers closer to the stories and people behind Maryland’s agricultural success.
In addition to Tobacco Barn Distillery, this week’s episode features two other unique segments:
- Blessing of the Combines (Worcester County): The annual parade in Snow Hill celebrates local farmers with vintage tractors, modern combines, and thousands of attendees.
- Bishop Walsh Aquaponics Lab (Allegany County): This innovative project in Cumberland combines fish farming and vegetable production, providing fresh produce to students, staff, and a local homeless shelter.
Viewing Options
Fans of Maryland Farm & Harvest can watch the series live on MPT-HD or stream it on-demand through MPT’s website and the PBS app. Encore broadcasts air Thursdays at 11 p.m. and Sundays at 6 a.m. on MPT-HD, as well as Fridays at 7:30 p.m. on MPT2/Create. Past episodes and segments can also be accessed on the show’s YouTube channel.
St. Mary’s County residents can take pride in the Tobacco Barn Distillery’s recognition as part of the program’s efforts to celebrate the agricultural heritage and innovation shaping Maryland’s future.
