1st Brewery In Aberdeen Hosting Halloween Soft Launch

ABERDEEN, MD — The first brewery in Aberdeen will open just in time for Halloween.

Watchtower Brewing has been a labor of love for three longtime friends - Joe Fino, Frank Young and George Handlin. The men have remodeled the dry cleaning location next to Festival Park into a brewery that's part of Aberdeen's plan to draw new businesses to the downtown area.

Watchtower Brewing will host a soft launch starts this Friday. They'll post on social media what days and times they'll be open.

"We’ll be running limited hours while we brew up enough to fill all 12 taps. For now, you can grab a pint of Golden Eagle Pale Ale or New Resolution American IPA, with a smooth nitro stout coming next," the owners posted on Facebook.

Watchtower Brewing has made its beverages available at various past events, such as the Bonita Farm Fall Festival. The owners hosted a preview night recently at their brick-and-mortar spot where everyone welcomed the business with open arms.

"It's an incredible feeling. Just being a part of this community now, we're ingrained in it," Fino told WMAR. "Just working hand in hand with the city council, with the mayor, everyone around Aberdeen is so excited. It's just amazing to be a part of it. Now it's coming to fruition, it's great that it's here."

Handlin shared on their website that Watchtower started with a Mr. Beer kit, "a love for the craft and a dream to bring people together." Fino also has been brewing beer for more than 20 years.

"From brewing in my basement to building a brewery in Aberdeen, this journey has always been about connection. We're here to make great beer and even better memories," Handlin said.

Watchtower Brewing is located at 22 Howard St. in Aberdeen.