Wine &
Growing Regions in Maryland
Maryland has four distinct growing regions, allowing
for a wide diversity of grape varieties that will thrive throughout
the State.
Piedmont Plateau. A majority
of vineyards are planted in Central Maryland, from the foothills
west of Frederick to the head of the Bay. Here you’ll find
10 of Maryland’s wineries as well – with clusters of
them around Westminster and just north of Baltimore. Cabernet Sauvignon,
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris are the stars
of this region.
Eastern Shore.
The Eastern Shore is seeing more and more vineyards planted –
with Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Vidal and
many other varieties in smaller lots. There is one winery on the
Eastern Shore, with more planned in the coming years.
Southern Plain.
Southern Maryland is a "newer" region, and one with great
prospects. Southern Maryland gets hot, and stays hot night and day
for most of the summer. This may not be good for some varieties,
but may help Southern Italian and other Mediterranean varieties
excel. There are currently three wineries in Southern Maryland,
with more on the way.
Western Mountain.
Western Maryland plays host to a number of vineyards and one winery.
Grapes in this region must be more cold-hardy and able to withstand
long winters and a short growing season. Varieties such as Norton/Cynthiana,
Vidal, Seyval, DeChaunac and Foch grow well here, as well as Cabernet
Franc.
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