If you’ve ever wondered why there are so few bars in Baltimore that sell and fill growlers, it is due to a little known Maryland liquor law.  The law specifically states that it is against the law to “refill or reuse any container” with alcohol in any establishment that has a liquor license. 

Living in Philadelphia, I cannot fairly call any liquor law terrible but this one comes about as close as any not passed by the Pennsylvania legislature.  Growlers are efficient and sealed with rubber stoppers, which allows them to keep beer fresher than many alternatives.  They also give drinkers the ability to try beers outside of bars that are on tap but not bottled, which makes them ideal for brewpubs.

Now, if you have seen growlers in Baltimore and are wondering how, it is because this law is fortunately not heavily enforced.  Unfortunately, a law is still a law and many bars have been discouraged from offering growlers.  Hopefully we’ll see this law change over the next few years so Baltimore residents can enjoy draft beer from the comfort of their own homes.