Maryland boasts a thriving wine scene that attracts visitors from near and far. The state’s vineyards offer not only exquisite wines but also charming atmospheres perfect for a day trip or a relaxing getaway. From award-winning establishments to picturesque settings, there is something for every wine enthusiast to enjoy.
What are the top vineyards to visit in Maryland? With more than 80 wineries, Maryland offers a variety of choices, each providing unique experiences and exceptional wines. This guide highlights the best vineyards in Maryland, ensuring you find the perfect spot to sip and savor.
1) Black Ankle Vineyards
Black Ankle Vineyards, located in Mt. Airy, Maryland, offers a beautiful setting for wine lovers. Founded by Ed Boyce and Sarah O’Herron in 2002, this vineyard has grown to become a popular destination on the East Coast.
Every Friday night, Black Ankle hosts “Black Ankle Fridays”, a relaxing event where visitors can unwind amidst the scenic vineyards. The tasting room enhances this experience, offering a serene atmosphere.
The vineyard is renowned for its commitment to sustainable practices. They produce a variety of high-quality wines, with a special recognition for their port-style wines.
Black Ankle’s tasting room is designed to accommodate many visitors, making it a top choice for those seeking a wine-tasting adventure. The vineyard is open Sunday through Thursday from noon to 5pm, and Friday through Saturday from 11am to 9pm. This schedule makes it easy to plan a visit.
Their wine club has developed a cult following, and the vineyard’s dedication to quality is evident in each bottle. The founders believe that the rolling hills of Maryland are ideal for producing wines that rival Europe’s finest. Visit their homepage to make a reservation.
Black Ankle Vineyards remains a standout choice for anyone visiting Maryland, offering both excellent wine and a memorable experience.
2) Boordy Vineyards
Boordy Vineyards, located in Hydes, Maryland, is the state’s oldest winery, open since 1945. The picturesque vineyard rests in the rolling hills of Northern Baltimore County, offering beautiful views and a pleasant atmosphere for visitors.
The 19th century Bank Barn is a highlight. It houses the tasting room, retail store, and event spaces. This historic building adds a unique charm to the vineyard experience and is steeped in history, making every visit special.
Boordy offers an array of wines, including popular choices like Riesling, Albariño, and the well-loved Boordy Blush. Their wines are crafted with great care, showcasing the decades of experience they have in wine-making.
They also host events and provide tours, giving guests an in-depth look at their processes. The setting, combined with great wines and friendly staff, creates a welcoming atmosphere for any wine enthusiast.
For more information, you can visit the vineyard’s official site.
3) Old Westminster Winery
Old Westminster Winery stands out in Maryland with its passion for crafting site-specific, vibrant wines. Located at 1550 Old Westminster Rd, Westminster, MD 21157, this family-owned vineyard focuses on producing wines that reflect both the land and the maker’s creativity.
Visitors to Old Westminster Winery can enjoy a peaceful and scenic atmosphere. The vineyard offers seasonally rotating wines, ensuring there’s always something new to taste. This keeps regular visitors excited for each visit.
In addition to their exceptional wines, the winery hosts a variety of events throughout the year. These events often feature live music, food trucks, and other fun activities, making it a great place to hang out with friends and family.
The winery also features delicious brick oven pizzas, adding to the delightful experience. With enchanting views and mouthwatering food, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing day.
For more information, check out Old Westminster Winery and plan your visit today.
4) Chapel Hill Farm and Winery
Chapel Hill Farm and Winery is a charming spot located in the serene countryside of Maryland.
Family-owned, the winery offers a personal touch that’s hard to find elsewhere. Their specialty is crafting wines that capture the essence of local grapes.
Visitors can enjoy tastings in a cozy, welcoming environment. The staff is always eager to share stories and insights about their wine-making process.
Outdoor seating provides stunning views of the vineyard, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon. The vineyard also hosts events, from weddings to seasonal festivals.
For those who love animals, there’s a small farm area where guests can meet horses, sheep, and goats.
Chapel Hill Farm and Winery is about an hour away from Baltimore, making it an easy day trip for city dwellers.
Their wine list features an impressive variety, including whites, reds, and specialty blends. There’s something to suit every palate.
The winery is open for tastings on weekends, with special events often held during the week. Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure a spot.
Whether it’s the wine, the view, or the friendly atmosphere, Chapel Hill Farm and Winery offers a delightful experience for all visitors.
5) Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard
Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard, established in 2006, sits on 22 acres at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain. The vineyard benefits from a unique microclimate, perfect for growing French vinifera clones grafted on American rootstock.
Jim and Leslie make sure each visit feels special. They create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for every guest.
Visitors can enjoy tasting award-winning Bordeaux-style wines in the scenic setting of the vineyard. The location offers breathtaking views, making it a great spot for a relaxing afternoon.
The vineyard has become a popular destination in Dickerson, Maryland. Their operating hours are from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, providing plenty of time to explore and savor their offerings.
For more information, visit their official website.
6) Linganore Winecellars
Linganore Winecellars is a family-run vineyard nestled on 230 acres of beautiful countryside near New Market, Maryland. Founded by Jack and Lucille Aellen in 1971, the vineyard began with just six acres of vines. The winery itself opened in 1976.
Visitors find a mix of history and charm at Linganore Winecellars. The winery operates in the lower half of a 19th-century post-and-beam barn. They offer tours and tastings that showcase their award-winning wines.
The vineyard produces a wide variety of wines, making use of the fertile soils and abundant sunshine of the region. It’s a great spot for wine enthusiasts to enjoy a relaxed afternoon.
Linganore Winecellars also plays a key role in the winemaking community. The Aellen family was instrumental in forming Maryland’s first American Viticultural Area (AVA). This helps promote and protect the quality of their wines.
For those who want to visit, business hours are from 10 am to 5 pm Monday through Thursday, 10 am to 6 pm Fridays and Saturdays, and 12 to 5 pm on Sundays. Plan your visit to enjoy the rich history and fine wines at Linganore Winecellars.
7) Rocklands Farm Winery
Rocklands Farm Winery is just a short drive from Washington D.C., making it a convenient destination for wine lovers in the area. Located in the scenic Agricultural Reserve of Montgomery County, Maryland, this winery offers a peaceful escape from city life.
Visitors to Rocklands Farm Winery can enjoy handcrafted wines made from estate-grown and regional grapes. The winery emphasizes a minimal intervention approach, allowing the natural quality of the fruit to shine through.
Besides wine, Rocklands Farm Winery also features local pasture-raised meats. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with family or friends. Events are frequently held here, providing entertainment and a chance to engage with the community.
This family-friendly winery makes for a perfect day trip. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a beautiful spot to unwind, Rocklands Farm Winery is worth a visit. You can find more information about their offerings and events on their official website.
8) Big Cork Vineyards
Big Cork Vineyards, located in Rohrersville, Maryland, offers a mix of great wine and beautiful scenery. Founded in 2011, the vineyard spreads across 100 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
They cultivate 18 grape varieties and produce over 25 estate wines, including popular choices like Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. This variety ensures that there’s something for every wine lover.
Visitors can enjoy wine tasting in a modern, spacious tasting room that adds a touch of luxury. The winery is known for its award-winning wines and outstanding customer service, making it a top destination for both locals and tourists.
The vineyard also hosts events featuring live music, adding to the enjoyable atmosphere. From relaxing afternoons to special gatherings, Big Cork Vineyards provides an inviting setting for all occasions.
For more details, visit Big Cork Vineyards and explore what they have to offer.
9) Catoctin Breeze Vineyard
Catoctin Breeze Vineyard is a beautiful, family-owned vineyard located in Thurmont, Maryland. Nestled in the northeastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this vineyard has a stunning setting perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.
This vineyard produces wines that are hand-crafted from field to bottle, making every sip special. The unique combination of ancient Appalachian soil and cool winds contributes to the exceptional quality of their wines. The vineyard focuses on producing small lots of dry, European-inspired wines.
Established in 2013, Catoctin Breeze Vineyard has become notable for its dedication to quality. They offer a pleasant experience for visitors, though it’s important to note that it is a 21+ vineyard.
For more details about Catoctin Breeze Vineyard, visit their website or check out their reviews on Tripadvisor. Visitors have praised the vineyard for its relaxed atmosphere and expressive wines.
10) Cascia Vineyards
Cascia Vineyards is a family-run winery on Kent Island, Maryland. Overlooking the beautiful Chesapeake Bay, it offers a picturesque setting for visitors. The vineyard spans over 12 acres, cultivating premium wine varietals.
They produce handcrafted red, white, and dessert wines. These wines are made from both vinifera and native varietals. The combination of expertise and dedication to quality is evident in every bottle.
Guests often comment on the welcoming atmosphere. The owner and winemaker frequently serve and share insights about the wines. This personalized touch enhances the overall experience.
The setting of Cascia Vineyards is perfect for those looking to enjoy quality wine in a serene environment. With views of the Chesapeake Bay, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
For more details, check out their Tripadvisor page or visit Cascia Vineyards – Maryland Wineries Association.
History Of Maryland’s Vineyards
Maryland’s vineyards have a long and storied past. They date back to the 17th century and continue to evolve and grow today.
Early Beginnings
The beginnings of winemaking in Maryland can be traced back to the early settlers in the 17th century. They brought with them the skills and practices from Europe. Early attempts to cultivate vineyards faced many challenges, including climate and soil conditions. Despite these difficulties, settlers persevered and started producing wines that began to gain local popularity.
By the 18th century, Maryland had a few established vineyards. These early vineyards laid the foundation for the state’s winemaking. The industry remained small but steady, and local wines grew in quality and reputation.
Modern Developments
The modern era of Maryland’s vineyards began toward the end of the 20th century. This period saw significant growth and innovation in winemaking techniques. In the early 2000s, the number of vineyards expanded rapidly. Today, there are over 80 wineries producing a variety of wines.
Modern vineyards in Maryland now utilize advanced technology and sustainable practices. They often host tours and tastings, welcoming visitors to experience their wines first-hand. With its diverse climate and rich soil, Maryland has developed a reputation for crafting unique and high-quality wines. The industry continues to thrive and adapt, blending tradition with innovation.
For more information on specific wineries, check out the best Maryland wineries.
Wine Varietals In Maryland
Maryland’s wineries offer a variety of red and white wines that cater to different preferences. This section delves into some of the popular and notable varietals found in the region.
Popular Red Wines
Maryland is home to several red wine varietals that flourish due to the state’s favorable climate. Cabernet Franc is a prominent choice, known for its medium body and herbal notes. It’s cultivated in various vineyards, including Big Cork Vineyards, which spans across 100 acres.
Petit Verdot is another red wine that has gained popularity. This varietal is often used in blends but also stands out on its own with bold flavors and dark fruit notes. Merlot and Malbec are also widely produced, providing rich and smooth options for red wine enthusiasts. Maryland’s winemakers often experiment with other red grapes like Chambourcin, adding diversity to the offerings.
Notable White Wines
When it comes to white wines, Maryland doesn’t disappoint. Chardonnay is a staple, known for its versatility and complexity. Whether oaked or unoaked, Maryland’s Chardonnays offer a balance of citrus and buttery flavors. Vidal Blanc is another significant varietal, often used to produce both dry and sweet wines.
Sauvignon Blanc also thrives in Maryland, offering crisp and refreshing options. This varietal is appreciated for its zesty acidity and tropical fruit notes. Albarino is less common but still noteworthy, providing a unique taste profile with its floral and citrusy characteristics.
Many vineyards, like Boordy Vineyards, have been producing award-winning white wines for decades, reflecting the state’s rich wine-making heritage.
Visiting Maryland Vineyards
Maryland offers a variety of beautiful vineyards for both casual visitors and wine enthusiasts. Enjoy scenic views, tastings of remarkable wines, and learn about the wine-making process.
Planning Your Visit
When planning a visit to Maryland vineyards, consider the location, opening hours, and the experiences offered. Popular vineyards include Big Cork Vineyards, known for its picturesque views in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Robin Hill Vineyards, a charming spot an hour from downtown DC.
Check if reservations are needed, especially on weekends. Some vineyards offer guided tours, tastings, or special events. It’s a good idea to check the vineyard’s website or call ahead to confirm details.
Transport is another vital aspect. Many visitors prefer driving, but hiring a car service ensures safety if you plan to explore extensive tastings. Don’t forget to plan your meals; some vineyards have on-site restaurants, while others encourage picnicking.
Seasonal Highlights
Each season brings unique experiences to Maryland vineyards. In spring, vineyards like Boordy Vineyards bloom with vibrant colors, perfect for photos and family outings.
Summer typically means extended hours and outdoor events. Many vineyards host festivals, live music, and patio dinners.
Fall is harvest season. Visit during this time to see the grape-picking process and enjoy fresh wine. The weather is cooler, making it pleasant to roam the vineyards.
Winter has its charm too. Some vineyards offer cozy indoor tastings by the fireplace and festive holiday events.
With each season offering something special, there’s never a bad time to visit a Maryland vineyard. Explore what suits your interests best for a memorable experience.
