Alcohol Beverage Services Podcast Examines the Local Beer Scene and ABS’s Commitment to Supporting County Alcohol Producers

Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) has released the fifth episode of its podcast series “Spirited Discussions: A Podcast by Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services.” The series helps residents and businesses understand alcohol products, trends and policies in Montgomery County. The fifth episode, “Local Beer,” examines how one local brewery incorporates history and artistry into its products, how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the hospitality industry and the steps ABS takes to support small alcohol manufacturers.

In the podcast, ABS Retail Operations Chief Sean Peters and Silver Branch Brewing Company’s Chief Operating Officer Brett Robison join host Jocelyn Rawat to explore how art, science and geography come together at Silver Branch Brewing Company to create Dr. Juicy IPA, Gnome for the Holidays season and Glass Castle pilsner, which are available in the brewery’s taproom and in ABS retail stores. Guests discuss the fast pace of change in the hospitality industry since 2020 and the ways ABS helps small businesses get a foothold in the competitive market.

ABS prominently features local products in all of its 27 retail stores and dedicates marketing resources to the success of local manufacturers. With 31 local small businesses enrolled in the local (LOC) program, ABS posted $2 million in LOC revenue last year and helped put Montgomery County on the map as a destination for craft beverages. Five of the LOC businesses are breweries.

“Local breweries are making excellent products,” said Retail Chief Peters. “We are lucky to have this level of innovation, growth and commitment to the brewing culture in Montgomery County, and ABS is pleased to give these small businesses a platform for additional exposure.”

The Alcohol Beverage Services podcast is posted on the department’s website at montgomerycountymd.gov/abs/press-release and is available on several podcast platforms including Amazon, Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to the podcast by selecting the “follow” or “plus” button on your provider’s podcast platform.

Listeners are encouraged to email ideas and questions for future episodes to abs.spiriteddiscussions@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Previous episodes highlighted the art and science of whiskey barrel picks, defined the “control model” for alcohol distribution, and detailed the underage compliance check program to prevent under-21 access to alcohol. Episode six will help customers select French wines.

The Office of Broadband Programs in the County’s Department of Technology and Enterprise Business Services (TEBS) is providing technical support for the ABS podcast.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement, and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that otherwise would be funded by County tax dollars. 

Alcohol Beverage Services Partners with MCGEO for ‘Labor of Love’ Initiative to Benefit March of Dimes

Montgomery County’s Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) and UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO, in conjunction with County Executive Marc Elrich, are supporting the “Labor of Love” initiative benefiting March of Dimes. The campaign will take place throughout the month of November.

All ABS retail stores, including its new Oak Barrel & Vine stores, will be asking customers if they want to make donations to support March of Dimes and the Labor of Love initiative. Customers also will be asked if they want to round up their invoices to the nearest dollar.

ABS and UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO have set a goal of raising $70,000 in the initiative, with monies raised to help March of Dimes improve maternal health, help babies be healthy and strong and protect the health of families through programs and advocacy.

The campaign is now in its third year. Customers of ABS stores contributed more than $53,000 in 2022 and more than $65,000 in 2023, for a two-year total of $118,000.

“For more than 80 years, the March of Dimes has been improving the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature births and lowering infant mortality rates,” said County Executive Elrich. “I want to thank ABS and MCGEO for teaming up to support the March of Dimes through their ‘Labor of Love’ campaign. In addition to the health and safety benefits ABS provides Montgomery County through safe alcohol distribution, we are proud of the contributions of ABS employees through volunteering, fundraising and supporting nonprofit partners like the March of Dimes.”

The March of Dimes approach:

• Fund and support innovative research to solve the biggest problems in maternal and infant health.
• Advocate for prioritization our nation’s moms and babies and action to improve their health.
• Educate and help every family have healthy pregnancies regardless of wealth, race, gender or geography.

“Supporting March of Dimes is a great way for us all to give back to our local community,” said ABS Director Kathie Durbin. “ABS has always been committed to public health and safety, and this campaign is a natural extension of that commitment. Together we can help ensure that every mom and every baby have the best possible start.”

The U.S. remains one of the most dangerous developed countries to give birth. Two women die from pregnancy related issues each day, two babies die every hour in the U.S. and one in 10 is born too soon. Learn more about March of Dimes at www.marchofdimes.org.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars.

Fourth Episode of Alcohol Beverage Services Podcast Examines the ‘Underage Compliance Check Program’ for Preventing Alcohol Sales to People Under 21

Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) has released the fourth episode of its podcast series Spirited Discussions: A Podcast by Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services. The series helps residents and businesses understand alcohol products, trends and policies in Montgomery County. The fourth episode, “Underage Compliance Checks,” examines how and why the County and other jurisdictions employ young people to conduct random checks to make sure businesses are not selling or serving alcohol to anyone under age 21.

In the podcast, ABS Compliance Manager Joe Cannon and Montgomery County Police Department Sergeant Patrick Kepp join host Jocelyn Rawat to explain the underage compliance check program and how it keeps the community safe, promotes fairness among businesses and offers employment opportunities to young people. Guests discuss what a compliance check looks like, how businesses are succeeding, why preventing under-21 drinking matters and how people aged 18-20 can apply for this unique job.

In an underage compliance check, an “underage volunteer” (UV) aged 18-20, accompanied by an alcohol inspector and a police officer, attempts to purchase alcohol at a licensed establishment using their real Maryland-issued identification. In most cases, the business rejects the sale and the check is complete. If the business sells alcohol to the UV, the business receives a fine and the server receives a criminal citation. The goal of the checks is to increase the perception that vendors will be caught if they sell alcohol to people who are under 21.

“Jurisdictions across the country conduct compliance checks as a way of protecting young people from the dangers of under-21 drinking,” said Compliance Manager Cannon. “This is not a ‘sting operation,’ but rather a way to ensure an environment for healthy cognitive, social and educational development. We’re simply trying to keep kids safe.”

ABS hires and trains people 18-20 to complete the compliance checks. Successful applicants will look their age, will demonstrate a commitment to their community and will have a confident demeanor. Interested candidates should email abslicensing@montgomerycountymd.gov.

The Alcohol Beverage Services podcast is posted on the department’s website at montgomerycountymd.gov/abs/press-release and is available on several podcast platforms including Amazon, Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to the podcast by selecting the “follow” or “plus” button on your provider’s podcast platform.

Listeners are encouraged to email ideas and questions for future episodes to abs.spiriteddiscussions@montgomerycountymd.gov.

The first episode of the podcast series introduced listeners to ABS’s three main functions—wholesale operations, retail stores and licensing and regulation. Subsequent episodes highlighted the art and science of “whiskey barrel picks” and defined the “control model” for alcohol distribution. Upcoming episodes will examine local craft beverage producers and will help customers select wines.

The Office of Broadband Programs in the County’s Department of Technology and Enterprise Business Services (TEBS) is providing technical support for the ABS podcast.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement, and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that otherwise would be funded by County tax dollars. Follow ABS on Facebook and X.

Alcohol Beverage Services to Offer ‘Highly Allocated Products’ on Sunday June 9, as Part of its Expanded Monthly Release Program

Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) has expanded its “Highly Allocated Products” program to include quarterly releases on Sundays. The program is comprised of special releases of products, including sought-after bourbons, whiskeys and other small-batch spirits. The program ensures that access to rare products is distributed fairly among retail customers and license holders across the County.

The Sunday releases replace the regularly scheduled “second Saturday” releases in March, June, September and December. ABS will continue to release the products on the second Saturday of the remaining months, giving customers the opportunity to purchase these products on a first-come, first-serve basis. The June 9 release marks the second time that retail customers will be able to purchase the available products on a Sunday.

“It is great to be in Montgomery County if you enjoy high-end whiskeys or other fine spirits,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “In a constantly changing and sometimes unpredictable market, you can count on ABS to make sure you get a fair shot at a good product without a premium markup. With the addition of Sunday releases, ABS is making the program even more accessible.”

ABS Liquor Wine and Oak Barrel & Vine stores are open noon-5 p.m. on Sundays. The Poolesville retail store is closed on Sundays and will not participate in the program in the four months designated for Sunday releases. There will be no changes to the “third Thursday” program that allows alcohol license holders to purchase these products to serve in their establishments.

Purchases of the products are limited to one bottle each of two different items for a maximum of two bottles per customer per day. On the Thursday before the second Saturday or Sunday, ABS posts on its website a list of the available products and the stores where they will be sold. To maximize fairness, customers will not be permitted to place a hold on these products.

“ABS is dedicated to giving our customers access to the most special and rare products in an equitable way,” said ABS Director Kathie Durbin. “We are pleased to be able to expand the monthly releases to four Sundays per year, thereby creating an even wider range of opportunities for customers and making the program more inclusive.”

ABS will continue to distribute the rarest products through a lottery process. ABS holds a minimum of one lottery each year in which winners have the opportunity to purchase the extremely limited items. Dates for lotteries are based on shipments from distillers and are announced at least two weeks before the opening of the entry period.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that otherwise would be funded by County tax dollars.

Alcohol Beverage Services to Open Registration on Sunday, April 7, for Lotteries Providing Opportunities to Purchase Highly Sought Spirits

Montgomery County’s Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) will open registration on Sunday, April 7, for its annual limited availability whiskey lotteries that provide opportunities to purchase highly sought spirits. The lotteries are free to enter but have residency requirements.

ABS expects to release more than 1,000 bottles for purchase in the lotteries. Among the spirits that County residents will have an opportunity to purchase are Michter’s 25 Year Old and two bottles of Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year Old. Maryland residents selected in the lottery will have an opportunity to purchase bottles of Mister Sam Tribute and Old Forester Birthday Bourbon (2023 edition).

The first lottery will be open to Maryland residents 21 and over. The second lottery will be open only to County residents 21 and over. Each lottery includes a wide range of spirits bottles, with some overlap. County residents will be able to enter both the State and the County lotteries.

Registration for the lotteries begins at 12:01 p.m. on Sunday, April 7, and closes at 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, April 13. After the lotteries close, a random drawing will be conducted. The winning numbers will be posted on the ABS website at noon on Monday, April 22.

Winners will be able to purchase their bottle from a designated store from Friday, April 26, through Friday, May 24. No alternative dates will be provided. All bottles not picked up by close of business on May 24 will be forfeited.

Each resident entering the lotteries will be able to select their top preferences from the list of bottles available. Bottle counts are listed on the registration forms. Details on how to enter the lottery, including an entry form, are available on the ABS website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/abs/lottery.

A third lottery will be open to Montgomery County alcohol license holders who are authorized to sell spirits on their premises. The licensee lottery will run at the same time as the resident lotteries and will boost availability of allocated items available by the glass. Licensees can enter at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/abs/lottery.

“We’re pleased to have so many highly allocated products for this year’s lottery.” said ABS Retail Chief Sean Peters. “Montgomery County is a great place to be for people who love whiskey or other fine spirits as this program is designed to offer fair pricing and equitable access.”

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County. It operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars.

Alcohol Beverage Services to Expand ‘Highly Allocated Products’ Program to Include Releases on Four Sundays Per Year, Starting Sunday, March 10

Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) is expanding its “Highly Allocated Products” (HAL) program to include quarterly releases on Sundays. HAL is comprised of special releases of products, including sought-after bourbons, whiskies and other small-batch spirits. The HAL program ensures that access to rare products is distributed fairly among retail customers and license holders across the County.

Beginning Sunday, March 10, retail customers will be able to purchase HAL products released on the second Sundays of March, June, September and December on a first-come, first-serve basis. The Sunday releases will replace the regularly scheduled “second Saturday” releases in the four designated months. ABS will continue to release HAL products on the second Saturday of the remaining months.

“It is great to be in Montgomery County if you enjoy high-end whiskeys or other fine spirits,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “In a constantly changing and sometimes unpredictable market, you can count on ABS to make sure you get a fair shot at a good product without a premium markup. With the addition of Sunday releases, ABS is making the program even more accessible.”

ABS Liquor Wine and Oak Barrel & Vine stores are open noon-5 p.m. on Sundays. The Poolesville retail store is closed on Sundays and will not participate in the HAL program in the four months designated for Sunday releases. There will be no changes to the “third Thursday” program, which allows alcohol license holders to purchase HAL products to serve in their establishments.

Purchases of HAL products are limited to one bottle each of two different items for a maximum of two bottles per customer per day. On the Thursday before the second Saturday or Sunday, ABS posts on its website a list of available HAL products and the stores where they will be sold. To maximize fairness, customers will not be permitted to place a hold on HAL products.

“ABS is dedicated to giving our customers access to the most special and rare products in an equitable way,” said ABS Director Kathie Durbin. “We are pleased to be able to expand the monthly releases to four Sundays per year, thereby creating an even wider range of opportunities for customers and making the program more inclusive.”

ABS will continue to distribute the rarest HAL products through a lottery process. ABS holds a minimum of one lottery each year in which winners have the opportunity to purchase the extremely limited items. Dates for lotteries are based on shipments from distillers and are announced at least two weeks before the opening of the entry period.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that otherwise would be funded by County tax dollars. Follow ABS on Facebook and Twitter.

Alcohol Beverage Services Presents Check to March of Dimes After ‘Labor of Love’ In-store Campaign Raises $65,000 in Donations

Customers of Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) stores contributed more than $65,000 over a recent three-week period to support the “Labor of Love” campaign to benefit March of Dimes and its mission to improve maternal health, help babies be healthy and strong and protect the health of families through programs and advocacy. ABS and UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO organized the campaign with the support of County Executive Marc Elrich.

ABS presented a check to the March of Dimes on Friday, Jan. 19, at its Olney retail store at 17825 Georgia Ave. Officials from ABS, UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO, March of Dimes and Tito’s Handmade Vodka celebrated the campaign’s success and recognized the highest fundraising stores, including Olney, which was the top performing store. The ceremony will be open to the public.

During the campaign, employees at the 27 ABS retail stores asked customers at checkout if they wished to round up to the nearest dollar or donate a larger amount to support March of Dimes. The Labor of Love campaign, which ran Oct. 29-Nov. 19, raised $65,443 through in-store donations, exceeding the campaign’s goal of $60,000. In addition to the in-store donations, corporate partner Tito’s Handmade Vodka pledged $10,000 to March of Dimes, bringing the total donation to more than $75,000.

“For more than 80 years, the March of Dimes has been improving the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature births and lowering infant mortality rates,” said County Executive Elrich. “I want to thank ABS and MCGEO for teaming up to support the March of Dimes through their ‘Labor of Love’ campaign. In addition to the health and safety benefits ABS provides Montgomery County through safe alcohol distribution, we are proud of the contributions of ABS employees through volunteering, fundraising and supporting nonprofit partners like the March of Dimes.”

The March of Dimes approach:

• Fund and support innovative research to solve the biggest problems in maternal and infant health.
• Advocate for prioritization our nation’s moms and babies and action to improve their health.
• Educate and help every family have healthy pregnancies regardless of wealth, race, gender or geography.

“We are so thankful for this partnership and for the unwavering support of the entire Montgomery County community,” said Tina Cavucci, senior executive director of the local March of Dimes DMV Market. “Together, we are creating a stronger, more resilient community as we prioritize maternal and infant health and are making an impact on families who need us now more than ever.”

The U.S. remains one of the most dangerous developed countries to give birth. Two women die from pregnancy related issues each day, two babies die every hour in the U.S. and one in 10 is born too soon. Learn more about March of Dimes at www.marchofdimes.org.

“Supporting March of Dimes is a great way for us all to give back to our local community,” said ABS Director Kathie Durbin. “ABS has always been committed to public health and safety, and this campaign is a natural extension of that commitment. Together we can help ensure that every mom and every baby have the best possible start.”

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars. Follow ABS on Facebook and Twitter. 

Alcohol Beverage Services Highlights Alcohol-Free Products for ‘Dry January’ to Promote Responsibility and Moderation

Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) is celebrating “Dry January” with discount prices on non-alcoholic beverages in its retail stores. Throughout the month, ABS also will offer tastings of alcohol-free products and will post mocktail recipes on its social media accounts to promote responsibility and moderation.

Dry January represents a time when many people abstain from alcohol or practice mindful drinking for an entire month. For some, it is a part it is part of a New Year’s resolution to lose weight, sleep better, manage stress or incorporate healthy behaviors into their routine. Low- and no-alcohol beer, wine and spirits provide an interesting and attractive alternative to traditional alcoholic drinks.

“Now is a natural time to take stock and make a plan for the year ahead, which may include sober curiosity or challenges like Dry January.” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “I’m glad to see ABS offering 23 non-alcoholic products in its stores for those who prefer a different type of ‘adult’ beverage. ABS even has the just-released Mionetto zero-proof sparkling wine that has caught the attention of prosecco enthusiasts.”

ABS Liquor & Wine and Oak Barrel & Vine retail stores are currently carrying these products that contain less than 0.5 percent alcohol:

• Beer
• Beck’s Non-Alcoholic
• Buckler Non-Alcoholic
• Corona Non-Alcoholic
• Gosling’s Ginger Beer Non-Alcoholic
• Heineken 0.0 Non-Alcoholic
• O’Doul’s Non-Alcoholic
• O’Doul’s Amber Non-Alcoholic
• Wine
• Ariel Cabernet Sauvignon Non-Alcoholic
• Ariel Chardonnay Non-Alcoholic
• Freixenet Alcohol-Removed Premium Sparkling White
• Freixenet Alcohol-Removed Premium Sparkling Rosé
• Mionetto Alcohol-Removed Sparkling Wine
• Stella Rosa Red Non-Alcoholic
• Stella Rosa Peach Non-Alcoholic
• Stella Rosa Rosé Non-Alcoholic
• Stella Rosa Black Non-Alcoholic
• Sutter Home Fre Alcohol-Removed Cabernet Sauvignon
• Sutter Home Fre Alcohol-Removed Chardonnay
• Spirits
• CleanCo Clean V Apple Non-Alcoholic Vodka Alternative
• CleanCo Clean W Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Alternative
• CleanCo Clean T Non-Alcoholic Tequila Alternative
• CleanCo Clean G Non-Alcoholic Gin Alternative
• CleanCo Clean R Non-Alcoholic Spiced Rum Alternative

Customers can discover which ABS retail stores carry specific products by using the Product Search Portal on the department’s website. Gaithersburg Square Oak Barrel & Vine carries the largest selection of alcohol-free products.

Customers can also sample alcohol-free products at these scheduled tastings:

• Sat., Jan. 6, 1-4 p.m., Mionetto, Downtown Rockville
• Sat., Jan. 6, 4-7 p.m., Mionetto, Kingsview
• Sat., Jan. 6, 4-7 p.m., Sutter Home Fre, Muddy Branch
• Fri., Jan. 12, 4-7 p.m., CleanCo, Darnestown
• Fri., Jan. 12, 4-7 p.m., Mionetto, Aspen Hill
• Fri., Jan. 12, 4-7 p.m., Mionetto, Hampden Lane
• Sat., Jan. 13, 1-4 p.m., CleanCo, Kingsview
• Sat., Jan. 13, 1-4 p.m., Sutter Home Fre, Kensington
• Fri., Jan. 19, 1-4 p.m., Mionetto, Seneca Meadows
• Fri., Jan. 19, 4-7 p.m., CleanCo, Gaithersburg Square
• Fri., Jan. 19, 4-7 p.m., CleanCo, Downtown Rockville
• Fri., Jan. 19, 4-7 p.m., CleanCo, Aspen Hill
• Fri., Jan. 19, 4-7 p.m., Mionetto, Muddy Branch
• Sat., Jan. 20, 1-4 p.m., CleanCo, Seneca Meadows
• Sat., Jan. 20, 1-4 p.m., Mionetto, Cabin John
• Sat., Jan. 20, 1-4 p.m. Mionetto, Gaithersburg Square
• Sat., Jan. 20, 4-7 p.m., CleanCo, Muddy Branch
• Sat., Jan. 20, 4-7 p.m., Sutter Home Fre, Potomac
• Fri., Jan. 26, 4-7 p.m., Mionetto, Darnestown
• Sat., Jan. 27, 1-4 p.m. Mionetto, Potomac
• Sat., Jan. 27, 4-7 p.m., Mionetto, Montrose
• Sat., Jan. 27, 1-4 p.m., Sutter Home Fre, Cabin John
• Sat., Jan. 27, 1-4 p.m., Sutter Home Fre, Montrose
• Sat., Jan. 27, 2-5 p.m., CleanCo, Hampden Lane

A full list of tastings, including products that contain alcohol, is available on the department’s website.

As consumers look for new ways to enjoy the taste and ritual of drinking without the negative consequences of alcohol, mocktails continue to grow in popularity. Mocktails are non-alcoholic drinks created to replicate the presentation and complexity of craft cocktails. ABS will post mocktail, or zero-proof, recipes on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest throughout January.

“There are now so many flavorful options among craft mocktails, these elevated beverages have become their own movement,” said ABS director Kathie Durbin. “There are many great choices if you want something healthier or more inclusive than traditional cocktails.”

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars. Follow ABS on Facebook and X. 

7,813 County Residents Register for Alcohol Beverage Services Lottery for Opportunities to Purchase Highly Sought Spirits

The Montgomery County’s Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) lottery that will allow winning County residents opportunities to purchase limited availability whiskeys attracted 7,813 registered entrants during the one-week period that registration was open earlier this month. ABS will have 555 special bottles available for purchase starting Jan. 8. The winning numbers in the lottery will be posted on the ABS website at noon on Dec. 19.

In addition to residents who registered, 55 ABS licensees registered in a separate lottery to be able to purchase rare products they could serve to guests.

The lotteries are open only to Montgomery County residents and licensees.

The ABS system makes Montgomery County one of the largest single purchasers of wholesale alcohol products in the nation. As such, suppliers allocate the special products to ABS at various times.

Among the spirits that County residents will have an opportunity to purchase are Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year, Old Forester 2022 Birthday Bourbon and several rare releases from the Willett Distillery.

“While this promotion creates a lot of excitement, it is only one part of the ABS story,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “ABS is the exclusive alcohol wholesaler of liquor, beer and wine for Montgomery County businesses. It operates 27 retail stores generating more than $35 million in net income per year. Profits go toward the County's debt and into the general fund. The money replaces almost 2 cents on the tax rate. Without these sales, taxes would increase.”   

The winter lotteries were special additions to the ABS lottery program. Annual lotteries are regularly held by ABS in March. Those lotteries are open to Maryland residents in addition to Montgomery County residents and licensees. ABS lotteries are free to enter, but have residency requirements. Entrants must be 21 or older.

In this year’s March lotteries, 9,972 Maryland residents (8,488 County residents) registered for the opportunity to purchase 1,172 special bottles. The number of registrants set a record since ABS started holding the lotteries.

Winners of the winter lotteries will be able to purchase their bottles from a designated store from Monday, Jan. 8, through Sunday, Jan. 28.

Each winning resident will be able to select their top preferences from the list of bottles available. Bottle counts are listed on the registration forms. Details on the lotteries are available on the ABS website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/abs/lottery.

“This year has been outstanding for highly allocated products, and we are pleased to be able to offer a special, second lottery for Montgomery County residents and license holders only,” said ABS Director Kathie Durbin. “As always, the lotteries are designed to offer fair pricing and equitable access, including the chance to sip rare spirits at local restaurants.”

Alcohol Beverage Services to Open Registration on Sunday, Dec. 3, for Lotteries Providing Opportunities for County Residents and Licensees to Purchase Highly Sought Spirits

Montgomery County’s Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) will open registration on Sunday, Dec. 3, for limited availability whiskey lotteries that provide opportunities to purchase highly sought spirits. These lotteries will be open only to Montgomery County residents and licensees. ABS expects to release more than 400 bottles for purchase in the lotteries.

Among the spirits that County residents will have an opportunity to purchase are Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year, Old Forester 2022 Birthday Bourbon and several rare releases from the Willett Distillery.

The lotteries are in addition to the annual lotteries that ABS holds in March, which are open to Maryland residents in addition to Montgomery County residents and licensees. All ABS lotteries are free to enter, but have residency requirements. Entrants must be 21 or over.

Registration for the lotteries begins at 12:01 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 3, and closes at 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9. After the lotteries close, a random drawing will be conducted. The winning numbers will be posted on the ABS website at noon on Tuesday, Dec. 19.

Winners will be able to purchase their bottle from a designated store from Monday, Jan. 8, through Sunday, Jan. 28.

Each resident entering the lotteries will be able to select their top preferences from the list of bottles available. Bottle counts are listed on the registration forms. Details on how to enter the lottery, including an entry form, are available on the ABS website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/abs/lottery.

A second lottery will be open to Montgomery County alcohol license holders who are authorized to sell spirits on their premises. The licensee lottery will run at the same time as the resident lottery and will boost the availability of allocated items available by the glass. Licensees can enter at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/abs/lottery.

“This year has been outstanding for highly allocated products, and we are pleased to be able to offer a special, second lottery for Montgomery County residents and license holders only.” said ABS Director Kathie Durbin. “As always, the lotteries are designed to offer fair pricing and equitable access, including the chance to sip rare spirits at local restaurants.”

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County. It operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars. Follow ABS on Facebook and X.

Alcohol Beverage Services Partners with Local Businesses to Curb Drunk Driving During the Holiday Season with Coaster Campaign

Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) is partnering with local businesses to curb alcohol-impaired driving during the holiday season. ABS is distributing beverage coasters that feature a QR code directing patrons to an online list of alternative rides to get home safely when drinking. The coasters will be distributed to bars and restaurants free of charge.

The coasters are imprinted with the phrase “If this text is starting to look blurry, it’s time to scan for a safe ride home.” The goal of the campaign is to provide an easily accessible list of alternative rides to patrons and deter them driving after they have been drinking. Coasters are available in English and Spanish.

The online list that can be accessed from the coaster QR code features contact information for vehicle-for-hire services such as taxicabs, Uber and Lyft, as well as local public transportation. It also includes the Washington Regional Alcohol Program’s SoberRide discount ride program for select holidays.

“As people get ready to celebrate the holiday season, we encourage them to make a plan for a safe ride home if they decide to drink” said ABS Director Kathie Durbin. “Drunk driving is a threat to our community and keeping our community safe is everyone’s responsibility.”

Nationally, drunk-driving-related crashes spike during the holiday season, particularly the day before Thanksgiving. “Blackout Wednesday” (also known as “Drinksgiving”) refers to binge drinking on the night before the Thanksgiving holiday. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, from 2017-21, more than 830 people died in crashes involving a drunk driver.

Businesses that would like to request beverage coasters to participate in the initiative can email ABSLicensing@MontgomeryCountyMD.gov.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars. Follow ABS on Facebook and X.

Alcohol Beverage Services Partners with MCGEO for ‘Labor of Love’ Initiative to Benefit March of Dimes

Montgomery County’s Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) and UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO, in conjunction with County Executive Marc Elrich, are supporting the “Labor of Love Initiative” benefiting March of Dimes. The campaign will take place Oct. 29-Nov. 19.

All ABS retail stores, including its new Oak Barrel & Vine stores, will be asking customers if they want to make donations to support March of Dimes and the Labor of Love initiative. Customers also will be asked if they want to round up their invoices to the nearest dollar.

ABS and UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO have set a goal of raising $60,000 in the initiative, with monies raised to help March of Dimes improve maternal health, help babies be healthy and strong and protect the health of families through programs and advocacy.

“Supporting March of Dimes is a great way for us all to give back to our local community,” said ABS Director Kathie Durbin. “ABS has always been committed to public health and safety, and this campaign is a natural extension of that commitment. Together we can help ensure that every mom and every baby have the best possible start.”

The March of Dimes approach:

• Fund and support innovative research to solve the biggest problems in maternal and infant health.
• Advocate for prioritization our nation’s moms and babies and action to improve their health.
• Educate and help every family have healthy pregnancies regardless of wealth, race, gender, or geography.

“For more than 80 years, the March of Dimes has been improving the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature births and lowering infant mortality rates,” said County Executive Elrich. “I want to thank ABS and MCGEO for teaming up to support the March of Dimes through their ‘Labor of Love’ campaign. In addition to the health and safety benefits ABS provides Montgomery County through safe alcohol distribution, we are proud of the contributions of ABS employees through volunteering, fundraising and supporting nonprofit partners like the March of Dimes.”

The U.S. remains one of the most dangerous developed countries to give birth. Two women die from pregnancy related issues each day, two babies die every hour in the U.S. and one in 10 is born too soon. Learn more about March of Dimes at www.marchofdimes.org/.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars. Follow ABS on Facebook and Twitter.

Alcohol Beverage Services to Launch Ad Campaign to Reduce Under-21 Alcohol Access and Consumption

Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) is launching an ad campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of under-21 alcohol access and consumption. Starting this month, ABS will place public service advertisements on bus shelters and bus taillights to deter under-21 alcohol use and reduce adolescent access to alcohol.

The bus shelter ads will be placed near high schools and feature the phrase “under 21 drinking can lead to alcohol addiction.” The Ride On bus taillight ads will be placed on Upper County routes and feature the phrase “60% of kids who drink get their alcohol from family and friends.” Ads will run for six weeks and include a QR code that can be scanned for more information on reducing under-21 alcohol use and access to alcohol as well as other prevention resources.

“As a community we recognize that we have a responsibility to deter and reduce underage alcohol use,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “Our actions as parents and caregivers can influence our children’s decision to experiment with alcohol. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, children are more likely to avoid substance use when they have a strong, trusting relationship with their parents or caregivers. So, I’m glad that ABS is taking this step to remind us to speak to our children early and often about the dangers of underage alcohol consumption.”

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration states that under-21 drinking is associated with various negative consequences including the risk of developing future alcohol dependence. Under-21 drinking can also be influenced by the drinking behaviors of adult relatives, adults in the same household, and adults in the same community.

“Alcohol is the most commonly misused substance among young people in the United States,” said ABS Director Kathie Durbin. “Under-21 alcohol use contributes to risky behavior, lower academic achievement, altered brain development and the likelihood of future substance abuse, Parents, teachers and community members play a key role in deterring under-21 alcohol use and access.”

ABS developed the advertising campaign with a funding award from the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association. The ads are a part of the “Keeping It Safe” (KIS) public education campaign geared toward the hospitality industry and the community with educational material. KIS provides information on how to keep communities safe by raising awareness of the dangers of under-21 alcohol consumption as well as information on responsible alcohol service.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars.

Alcohol Beverage Services Schedules One-Day Retail Store Closures to Install New Point-of-Sale System, with First Closure on Sunday, Sept. 10, in Darnestown

Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) will deploy a new point-of-sale system at all its Liquor Wine and Oak Barrel & Vine retail stores over the next several weeks. Each store will be closed for one full day and will reopen at noon the following day to accommodate installation of the new hardware. The first store closure will occur at the Darnestown Liquor Wine location on Sunday, Sept. 10 with the store reopening at noon on Monday, Sept. 11.

During the project schedule, up to three stores will be closed at a time on a rolling basis until installations are complete at all stores. All retail stores will remain open on Saturdays. ABS expects to finish the upgrades by Oct. 10.

 

A schedule of closures can be found at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ABS/stores/POSMigration/Schedule.html. Customers are encouraged to consult the website before visiting their local store.

A point-of-sale system is a combination of hardware and software that allows a business to accept payment for transactions, track inventory, build customer profiles and improve daily business functions. ABS is upgrading its point-of-sale system as a part of its routine modernization program.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars.

Alcohol Beverage Services Becomes Exclusive Mid-Atlantic Seller of Domaine de Galuval Wines from the Rhône Valley of France

Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) has leveraged its direct import capacity and is now offering eight creative and cutting-edge wines from the Domaine de Galuval winery in the Rhône Valley of France. ABS serves as the exclusive distributor of these wines in the Mid-Atlantic Region. Only a few other U.S. outlets—in California, Puerto Rico and New York City—carry Domaine de Galuval products.

The Domain de Galuval wines are available now in all ABS Liquor Wine retail stores and Oak Barrel & Vine stores throughout the County. They also are available at participating privately owned beer and wine stores and restaurants.

The eight highly rated wines are unique creations, inspired by nature and true to the individual character of each vintage. The eye-catching labels feature works of art that represent the unique geology and character of the terroirs of the Domain de Galuval Estate. By importing directly, ABS is able to offer the products at attractive price points.

The Rhône Valley is one of the most dynamic, food friendly and varietally diverse regions of quality wines from France. It is an Old World wine region where vineyards have been cultivated for more than 2,000 years. The Rhône River rises in the Alps and flows 120 miles south to the Mediterranean Sea.

The Domaine de Galuval wines now available in Montgomery County include:

• La Vallée 2022 Cairanne Blanc
• La Montagne 2020 Cru des Côtes du Rhône
• Les Collines 2020 Cru des Côtes du Rhône Rasteau
• Les Terrasses 2021 2021 Rosé Vin de France
• Le Coq Volant 2021 Côtes du Rhône Villages Blanc
• Le Coq Volant 2020 Côtes du Rhône Villages Rouge
• Boissy & Delaygue Pontias Côtes du Rhône Rouge
• Boissy & Delaygue Clementus Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Retail customers can use the product search portal to find the location of these and other products in the Liquor Wine and Oak Barrel & Vine retail stores. Licensed establishments can purchase the products in the ABS wholesale application, iStore.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars.

Follow ABS on Facebook and Twitter.

Alcohol Beverage Services to Celebrate Grand Opening of New Gaithersburg Square ‘Oak Barrel & Vine’ Store on June 15

Montgomery County’s Department of Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) will open its new Gaithersburg Square store under its upgraded retail concept, “Oak Barrel & Vine,” at 9:45 a.m. on Thursday, June 15. Elected officials and alcohol industry representatives plan to attend the opening. Walt “The Wizard” Williams, a former basketball star at the University of Maryland who went on to play 11 seasons in the NBA, will be present to sign bottles of his Clutch vodka.

The celebration and ribbon cutting will occur in front of the store, located in the Gaithersburg Square shopping center at 512 N. Frederick Ave. in Gaithersburg. Throughout the weekend of Thursday-Sunday, June 15-18, the store will offer special tastings including those of Maryland-made products, high-end spirits and Juneteenth specials.

For the grand opening, some rare and highly allocated (HAL) items will be available for purchase. Each specific highly allocated item will be limited to one bottle per customer. No more than two HAL bottles can be purchased per customer, per day. The items will be available for purchase starting when the doors open at 10 a.m. on the day of the grand opening. Available HAL products will be posted on the ABS website at montgomerycountymd.gov/ABS/HAL/ 48 hours prior to the opening.

“My appreciation to our county’s ABS, which has contributed more than $35 million of revenue last year alone to the taxpayers of Montgomery County and more than $306 million over the last 10 years and which is continuing to improve its services and offerings,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “The new Gaithersburg Square store is another example of their working to provide a first-rate experience for our customers.”

The Oak Barrel & Vine branded stores feature handpicked items with a focus on spirits and locally manufactured products. The new Gaithersburg Square location will be the largest of the ABS stores and is the third to carry the Oak Barrel & Vine brand. It will feature a large tasting room and event space, an improved selection of small format items, a dedicated non-alcoholic products section, queue lines for faster checkout, wayfinding signs, and enhanced customer accessibility.

“The Gaithersburg Square Oak Barrel & Vine store will provide customers with the tasting and educational space they have been requesting,” said ABS Director Kathie Durbin. “The Oak Barrel & Vine brand is designed to reflect our community by showcasing local products and providing dynamic service in a safe and inviting environment. The large tasting room will allow customers to engage more fully, turning shopping into an experience.”

Opening weekend tastings schedule:

Thursday, June 15

• 1-4 p.m. – Boordy Vineyards (Maryland)
• 1-4 p.m. – Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon and Rye
• 1-4 p.m. – Silver Branch Brewing (Maryland)
• 4-7 p.m. – Intercept Wines (Juneteenth promo)
• 4-7 p.m. – Tito’s Handmade Vodka
• 4-7 p.m. – Noble Oak Bourbon and Rye

Friday, June 16

• 1-4 p.m. – Old Line Whiskey (Maryland)
• 1-4 p.m. – Tenth Ward (Maryland)
• 1-4 p.m. – Brookeville Beer Farm (Maryland)
• 4-7 p.m. – Ten to One Rum (Juneteenth promo)
• 4-7 p.m. – Intercept Wines (Juneteenth promo)
• 4-7 p.m. – High Noon RTD and Don Fulano Tequilas

Saturday, June 17

• 1-4 p.m. – Ten to One Rum (Juneteenth promo)
• 1-4 p.m. – Intercept Wines (Juneteenth promo)
• 1-4 p.m. – Clutch Vodka (Juneteenth promo)
• 4-7 p.m. – Dalmore Scotch
• 4-7 p.m. – Casamigos Tequila
• 4-7 p.m. – Orin Swift Wine

Sunday, June 18

• 1-4 p.m. – High Noon Tall Cans
• 1-4 p.m. – Hennessy VS and VSOP
• 1-4 p.m. – Coconut Cartel

The first Oak Barrel & Vine store, located in the Cabin John Village Shopping Center, opened in 2021 and has become a customer favorite. The Montrose store was converted to the Oak Barrel & Vine brand and re-opened in January 2023. ABS intends to upgrade its remaining retail stores to the Oak Barrel & Vine brand over the next several years.

The Gaithersburg Square store will be open 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon-5 p.m. on Sundays.

For a full list of ABS store locations and hours, visit the ABS website at montgomerycountymd.gov/ABS/stores/.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine, and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars.

Follow ABS on Facebook and Twitter.

‘Keeping It Safe Coalition’ Announces Student Video Contest Winners

Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) and the Montgomery County Police Department have announced the high school and middle school winners of the 2022-23 “Keeping It Safe Coalition” student video contest. The annual contest encouraged teams from Montgomery County public and private schools to create 30-second public service announcements to educate young people about the risks of under-21 alcohol use.

First place high school winners from Gaithersburg High School were Ethan Butler and Brandon Barrios. They will receive a $1,000 prize. The first-place winners in the middle school category were Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School students Griffin Bhargava, Amit Hegde, Sahnan Gadikota and Samarth Korada. Will receive a $500 prize.

"I want to congratulate this year’s winners as well as all the young people who submitted a video this year for assisting us in getting out this very important message,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “Alcohol is the most abused drug by Americans under 21, making it a major public health concern. We need to convey how destructive alcohol abuse can be for young people; alcohol impairs judgment and interferes with normal brain function and can even disrupt healthy brain development when introduced too young."

The winning entries will receive cash prizes for their affiliated school. In this year’s contest, 59 videos were submitted from 27 schools.

“We’re happy to support the Keeping it Safe Coalition, said Kathie Durbin, ABS director. “Raising awareness about the dangers and consequences of under-21 alcohol consumption among students is an important endeavor. These videos will help their peers learn how to fight peer pressure when it comes to alcohol consumption and ways to support friends who have an alcohol problem.”

The coalition announced the winners at an awards ceremony held on May 18 at the Carver Educational Services Center in Rockville.

The 2022-23 high school award winners:

• First Place – Gaithersburg High School. Students Ethan Butler and Brandon Barrios. Will receive a $1,000 prize.
• Second Place – Winston Churchill High School. Students Siena Mezger, Aliza George and Jaina Simon. Will receive a $500 prize.
• Third Place – Thomas S. Wootton High School. Students Alex Pent, Ashley Carr, Bilal Somji and Digonto Chatterjee. Will receive a $350 prize.
• Honorable Mention – Northwood High School. Student Hailie Clarke. Will receive a $100 prize.

The 2022-23 middle school award winners:

• First Place – Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School. Students Griffin Bhargava, Amit Hegde, Sahnan Gadikota and Samarth Korada. Will receive a $500 prize.
• Second Place – Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School. Student Karim Sangare. Will receive a $300 prize.
• Third Place – Hallie Wells Middle School. Students Adam Setiadji, Sai Sentihl, Aiden Rolnick, Nikhil Nare and Sid Karnati. Will receive a $250 prize.
• Honorable Mention – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School. Students Riya Sanan and Ceinwyn Chambers. Will receive a $100 prize.

For the second year in a row, Travel Television, a member of the Keeping It Safe Coalition, sponsored the “Most Popular Video” award for both high school and middle school participants. This award recognized the video with the most online views and “likes.”

The 2022-23 Most Popular Video for high school and middle school entrants went to Winston Churchill High School. Students Siena Mezger, Aliza George, and Jaina Simon. They will receive $150.

The winning videos can be viewed from the ABS website.

Founded in 1992, the Keeping It Safe Coalition (KIS) is an alliance of County departments, local organizations and concerned residents that work to deter underage alcohol access and use. The student video contest was funded by the County Police’s Traffic Division.

Through robust alcohol licensing, compliance and training programs, the Division of Licensing, Regulation and Education (LRE) within ABS ensures the responsible sale and service of alcohol. LRE has been an active supporter of KIS for decades.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine, and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 26 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars.

Alcohol Beverage Services Opens Registration for Lotteries Providing Opportunities to Purchase Highly Sought Spirits, with Deadline of Saturday, March 11

Montgomery County’s Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) has opened registration for its annual limited availability whiskey lotteries that provide opportunities to purchase highly sought spirits. The lotteries are free to enter, but have residency requirements. The deadline to register is 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, March 11.

After the lotteries close, a random drawing will be conducted. The winning numbers will be posted on the ABS website at noon on Monday, March 20. Winners will be able to purchase their bottle from a designated store from Friday, March 24, through Sunday, April 2.

ABS expects to release more than 1,100 bottles for purchase in the lotteries. Among the spirits that County residents will have an opportunity to purchase are a 2022 Double Eagle Very Rare, a Michter’s 20-Year Old and several rare releases from the Willett Distillery. Maryland residents selected in the lottery will have an opportunity to purchase bottles from the First Edition Heaven Hill Heritage Collection, the Final Edition (fall 2022) Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond Collection and the Old Forester Birthday Bottles (2022 edition).

The first lottery will be open to Maryland residents 21 and over. The second lottery will be open only to County residents 21 and over. Each lottery includes a wide range of spirits bottles, with some overlap. County residents will be able to enter both the State and the County lotteries.

Each resident entering the lotteries will be able to select their top preferences from the list of bottles available. Bottle counts are listed on the registration forms. Details on how to enter the lottery, including an entry form, are available on the ABS website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/abs/lottery.

A third lottery will be open to Montgomery County alcohol license holders who are authorized to sell spirits on their premises. The licensee lottery will run at the same time as the resident lotteries and will boost the availability of allocated items available by the glass. Licensees can enter at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/abs/lottery.

“We’re pleased to have so many highly allocated products for this year’s lottery. This increase in allocation is a reflection of the program’s success and is a direct benefit to County residents,” said ABS Retail Chief Kent Massie. “As always, the lotteries are designed to offer fair pricing and equitable access.”

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County. It operates 26 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars.

Alcohol Beverage Services to Celebrate Conversion of Montrose Store to Upgraded ‘Oak Barrel & Vine’ Brand at Grand Re-Opening on Friday, Jan. 27

Montgomery County’s Department of Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) will re-open its Montrose store under its upgraded retail concept, “Oak Barrel & Vine,” at 9:45 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 27. The celebration and ribbon cutting will occur in front of the store, located at 12015-B Rockville Pike in the Montrose Crossing shopping center in Rockville. County Executive Marc Elrich, other elected officials and alcohol industry representatives plan to attend the opening.

The Oak Barrel & Vine branded stores feature handpicked items with a focus on spirits and local products. The upgraded store will have 25 percent more shelf space, a dedicated tasting area, queue lines for faster checkout and wayfinding signs for a more inviting shopping experience.

For the grand opening, and in the days that follow, some rare and allocated items will be available for purchase. Each specific highly allocated item will be limited to one bottle per customer. No more than two highly allocated bottles can be purchased per customer, per day. The items will be available for purchase when the doors open at 10 a.m.

The grand opening also will include tastings from two local manufacturers between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Customers will be able to sample unique, flavored spirits from Bethesda-based Butterfly Spirits, as well as craft beers from Silver Spring-based Silver Branch Brewing Co. These products will be available for purchase at the opening and throughout the weekend.

“ABS is an incredible County government service, having contributed more than $35 million of revenue last year alone to the taxpayers of Montgomery County and more than $306 million over the last 10 years, in addition to the health and safety benefits through safe alcohol distribution,” said County Executive Elrich. “Under the leadership of Director Kathie Durbin, our ABS employees have been working hard to update their facilities and systems in order to better serve their customers and increase efficiencies. I am impressed with the improvements made at the Montrose location and look forward to more ABS stores being updated in the near future.”

The Montrose store is one of the oldest and busiest ABS stores and is popular because of its central location and ample parking. It is the second ABS store to be upgraded to the Oak Barrel & Vine brand.

The first Oak Barrel & Vine store, located in the Cabin John Village Shopping Center, opened in 2021 and has become a customer favorite. A third Oak Barrel & Vine store is currently under construction in the Gaithersburg Square shopping center and is expected to open in spring 2023. ABS intends to upgrade its remaining retail stores to the Oak Barrel & Vine brand over the next several years.

“We are excited to introduce a second Oak Barrel & Vine store to Montgomery County,” said ABS Director Kathie Durbin. “This is our store of the future, and it is designed to reflect our community by showcasing local products, providing tastings and events and offering a dynamic shopping experience.”

Beginning on Jan. 27, the Montrose store will be open from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from noon-5 p.m. on Sundays. For a full list of ABS store locations and hours, visit the ABS website.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 26 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars. Follow ABS on Facebook and Twitter.

Alcohol Beverage Services Begins Construction in Gaithersburg on Third ‘Oak Barrel & Vine’ Store

Montgomery County’s Department of Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) has started construction on a new Gaithersburg retail store, which will be the third in its enhanced “Oak Barrel & Vine” retail line. The store is located in the Gaithersburg Square shopping center at 512 N. Frederick Ave. The full-service store is expected to open in spring 2023.

The Oak Barrel & Vine branded stores feature handpicked items with a focus on spirits and locally manufactured products. The Gaithersburg store will have a large tasting room and event space, an improved selection of small format items, queue lines for faster checkout, improved wayfinding signs and better customer accessibility. The new location fills a gap caused by the 2018 closure of the ABS Milestone store. It also increases service levels to the growing population in the Gaithersburg area.

“The Gaithersburg Oak Barrel & Vine store will provide customers with the tasting and event space they have been requesting,” said ABS Director Kathie Durbin. “The Oak Barrel & Vine brand is designed to reflect our community by showcasing local products and providing dynamic service in a safe and inviting environment. The large tasting room will allow customers to engage more fully, turning shopping into an experience.”

The first Oak Barrel & Vine store, located in the Cabin John Village shopping center, opened in 2021 and has become a customer favorite. The future second Oak Barrel & Vine store, located in the Montrose Crossing shopping center, is expected to open in January 2023. ABS intends to upgrade its remaining retail stores to the Oak Barrel & Vine brand over the next several years.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine, and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 26 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that would otherwise be funded by County tax dollars. Follow ABS on Facebook and Twitter.