The Maryland Wineries Association is pairing up with quality restaurants and wine shops to celebrate the second annual “Maryland Wine Week” from June 8-17, 2012. "Maryland Wine Week is a great opportunity to showcase our locally grown wines, paired... read more >

The Maryland Wineries Association is pairing up with quality restaurants and wine shops to celebrate the second annual “Maryland Wine Week” from June 8-17, 2012.

"Maryland Wine Week is a great opportunity to showcase our locally grown wines, paired with seasonal dishes" said Chad Price, General Manager of RANAZUL Tapas Wine Bistro, of Howard County. "We are looking forward to pairing local wines with our menu items."

RANAZUL is one of many restaurants participating in Maryland Wine Week, and will be hosting a 5 course prix fixe wine dinner on June 12, featuring locally made wines from Black Ankle Vineyards in addition to offering wines by the glass all week long.

During Maryland Wine Week, restaurants and wine shops will host a range of events themed around Maryland wine, including wine maker dinners, tastings, wine flights, and other special offers.  Maryland Wine Week is carefully timed, to make sure local wine is paired with Maryland’s seasonal agricultural bounty!

“We are proud to offer local wine in our shop each day of the year,” said Mary Mulvihill of Mills Fine Wine & Spirits in Annapolis. “Especially during the official Maryland Wine Week that celebrates the strong tradition of wine making in Maryland. In fact, we've decided to extend our special celebration of Maryland Wine through the end of the month with Maryland wine tastings each weekend and special sale prices!”

Maryland residents and wine lovers can keep up to date on the goings-on of Maryland Wine Week by visiting MarylandWineWeek.com, and following @MDwineweek on Twitter.

In addition to these in-store and restaurant tastings and events, the Maryland Wineries Association will also be hosting their second annual Eat•Drink•Go LOCAL event in the Town of North Beach on June 16.  More information can be found at EatDrinkGoLocal.com.

There are currently 56 licensed wineries in Maryland.  Maryland wineries sold over 1.6 million bottles of wine in 2011. Hide

Get the latest Maryland wine news via our monthly e-newsletter .

Get the latest Maryland wine news via our monthly e-newsletter.

Port of Leonardtown announces the release of two new Rosé wines. Keeping with our Chesapeake Bay, focus we have given our new 2011 Rosé wines local names, Wicomico, is pronounced why-KAHM-ih-ko, and Chaptico. These Rosés will debut during... read more >

Port of Leonardtown announces the release of two new Rosé wines. Keeping with our Chesapeake Bay, focus we have given our new 2011 Rosé wines local names, Wicomico, is pronounced why-KAHM-ih-ko, and Chaptico. These Rosés will debut during Leonardtown First Friday on May 4th. 

“These two wines will provide our customers a choice of dry and semi-sweet Rosé” said Dean Jones, president, Port of Leonardtown Winery.  “We are pleased to release these wines as we celebrate the beginning of our third year in business. “

Our 2011 Chaptico Rosé is a semi sweet Chambourcin Rosé. The  Wicomico Rosé
is a dry Chambourcin Rosé. The Chaptico Rosé is friendly with smoked ham, Thai food and seafood. The Wicomico Rosé goes well with green salads and Prosciutto wrapped melon.

Pat Isles, Port of Leonardtown winemaker commented that “Our 2010 Chambourcin Rosé won Best in Class Rosé from the Maryland Governors cup competition in 2011 and we are looking forward to winning additional competitions”

You can taste these wines beginning May 1st at the Port of Leonardtown tasting room.  Port of Leonardtown Winery has many events during May to celebrate this wine release along with the 3rd year anniversary. Visit Facebook to obtain the most up to date information on events. www.facebook.com/portofltownwine

About Port of Leonardtown Winery: Early in 2008, the Southern Maryland Wine Growers Cooperative (SMWGC), T/A (trading as) Port of Leonardtown Winery, partnered with St. Mary's County Government and the Town of Leonardtown to complete a feasibility study to ensure success of grape growing in Southern Maryland and to examine potential markets for the grape production. The outcome was that the SMWGC entered into a lease agreement with the Town of Leonardtown in 2009 to operate the cooperative winery. The Port of Leonardtown Winery first started producing wine from the 2009 grape harvest, using berries from both local and regional vineyards. Port of Leonardtown Winery is open for tasting and purchase Wednesday through Sunday noon to 6 pm with extended hours on First Friday and other special dates.  The winery is located near Route 5 just off Newtowne Neck Road in Leonardtown. We can be found on the web at www.portofleonardtownwinery.com or 301-690-2192. Hide

The Maryland Wineries Association in conjunction with the Maryland Jockey Club presents the second annual Decanter: A Celebration of Maryland Wine & Racing on April 21-22, in the infield of Pimlico Race Course. Tickets start at $30 and feature an infield vantage... read more >

The Maryland Wineries Association in conjunction with the Maryland Jockey Club presents the second annual Decanter: A Celebration of Maryland Wine & Racing on April 21-22, in the infield of Pimlico Race Course.

Tickets start at $30 and feature an infield vantage point to all turf and dirt races, samples of wine from twenty local wineries, access to local artisans and specialty food, including Grilled Cheese & Company’s gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, Sherri’s Crab Cakes, Thunder Ridge Kettle Corn, Take of Di Town Jerk Chicken and the Souper Freak Soup Truck, available for purchase.
 
Attendees can purchase an upgraded Decanter Pass that includes a full size Riedel wine glass and samples of exclusive “Decanter” wines from each winery. Decanter Pass holders will also have access to a Racing 101 class taught by the Maryland Jockey Club. Decanter Passes are available for $50.

All tickets are available now on www.DecanterWineFestival.com.

“The Maryland Jockey Club is excited to partner with the Maryland Wineries Association for our second annual Decanter Wine Festival,” said Tom Chuckas, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Maryland Jockey Club. “Horse racing and local wine are two great Maryland traditions and together make a great pairing.”

“We love this event,” said Kevin Atticks, executive director of the Maryland Wineries Association. “Watching the races from the unique turf-side vantage point while enjoying local wines is quite an experience.”

The Decanter Wine Festival is sponsored by the Maryland Jockey Club, WBAL, Downtown Diane, Baltimore Magazine, Visit Baltimore, Yelp, the Equiery Magazine, City Paper and Neu-Valley Nurseries.

The event is from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. bo Hide

The Frederick Wine Trail and the E-ventplex at the Frederick Fairgrounds announce an exciting kick-off to the 2012 wine festival season. On April 21 and 22, 2012, the beautifully renovated Null Building at the E-ventplex will be the site of the third annual “A... read more >

The Frederick Wine Trail and the E-ventplex at the Frederick Fairgrounds announce an exciting kick-off to the 2012 wine festival season. On April 21 and 22, 2012, the beautifully renovated Null Building at the E-ventplex will be the site of the third annual “A Toast to Frederick,” a wine and food extravaganza.

Eight local wineries will bring a diverse selection of wines to A Toast to Frederick. Offerings will include not only traditional dry wines made from well-known grapes but also specialty wines made from honey and other fruits, including Distillery Lane Ciderworks’s hard cider made from their own apples. The newest member of the Frederick Wine Trail, Catoctin Breeze Vineyard, will be making their debut at this festival. The other participating wineries, which include Elk Run Vineyards, Linganore Winecellars, Orchid Cellar, Frederick Cellars, Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard and Loew Vineyards, will be sampling not only their favorite wines but also some new releases.

In addition to the wines, A Toast to Frederick will bring together some of Frederick’s talented culinary specialists, musicians, artisans and artists. Joining the event this year, the Frederick Arts Council will be displaying the artwork of several of the area’s dedicated artists. Wine education seminars and cooking demonstrations will add to the activities of the day. The event promises to showcase the best that Frederick has to offer to those who enjoy fine foods, fine music and fine wine.

Since the launch of the Frederick Wine Trail in June 2007, the trail has also become a favored weekend destination for tourists and local residents alike as the wines have earned praise from wine lovers from near and far. The E-ventplex at The Frederick Fairgrounds boasts a wealth of activities in addition to its main event – The Great Frederick Fair. Carol Wilson, President of the Frederick Wine Trail, commented, "The Frederick wineries are now nine strong and span the county, from the rolling hills of Mt. Airy to the city of Frederick, south to Sugarloaf Mountain and west to South Mountain. Visitors to the vineyards marvel at the glorious vistas of vines gleaming in the spring with dew-dropped fields interspersed with mustard and wild flowers; as fall approaches, lush vines become laden with their beautiful fruit, soon to be harvested for a new wine vintage. Add in apple cider, fruit wine and mead and the cross section of flavors presents a wonderful addition to a visit to Frederick County."

For more details, please visit www.frederickwinetrail.com. Contact: Eric Aellen, Event Chairman: 301-831-5889 Hide

Two International Wine Competitions, the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition and the International Eastern Wine Competition, have recently released the results of their 2012 results, and several of Maryland’s 54 wineries have won medals across the... read more >

Two International Wine Competitions, the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition and the International Eastern Wine Competition, have recently released the results of their 2012 results, and several of Maryland’s 54 wineries have won medals across the board.

Three wineries, Boordy Vineyards, Knob Hall Winery and Running Hare Vineyard have won gold medals. Boordy was awarded a gold medal in the 2012 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition for their ‘09 Landmark Reserve, a red Bordeaux blend, as well as their ‘10 Petit Cabernet.  Running Hare Vineyard won a gold in the same competition for their Chardonnay. The International Eastern Wine Competition awarded a gold medal to Knob Hall Winery for their ’10 Reve Rouge, a red hybrid blend.  

The Finger Lakes International Wine Competition features over 60 judges, and in 2011, a record 3,298 wines were entered into the competition.  Each wine is blind judged in flights of 8, based on its own merit.  This year, in addition to Boordy Vineyards and Running Hare Vineyard, Basignani Winery, Bordeleau Vineyards & Winery, Catoctin Breeze Vineyard, Dove Valley Winery, Knob Hall Winery, Perigeaux Vineyards & Winery and Terrapin Station Winery all received awards.

The International Eastern Wine Competition is just for wines produced in the Eastern U.S. and Eastern Canada.  2012 was the 36th year of the competition, and over 800 wines were entered.  Bordeleau Vineyards & Winery, Detour Vineyard & Winery, Knob Hall Winery, Slack Winery, and Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyards all won medals.

“We love when Maryland wineries enter these types of prestigious competitions,” said Kevin Atticks, executive director of Maryland Wineries Association.  “When they enter, they often win, and that puts us on the map as a high quality wine-producing region.”

Wineries post their wine's awards and honors on their Marylandwine.com pages. Hide

Congratulations to our 2011 Annual Photo contest winner Steve Rincavage! Rincavage's photo was taken in his backyard vineyard, in Westminster Maryland. Rincavage is a home grape grower and dabbles in wine making using his Chambourcin and Cabernet Franc grapes. He has... read more >

Congratulations to our 2011 Annual Photo contest winner Steve Rincavage!

Rincavage's photo was taken in his backyard vineyard, in Westminster Maryland. Rincavage is a home grape grower and dabbles in wine making using his Chambourcin and Cabernet Franc grapes. He has learned about grape growing from attending Maryland Grape Growers Association clinics and seminars, which is apparent in the beautiful shot of his growing vineyard.

"A passing shower had come through and I was in the vineyard, when I looked up and noticed the rainbow covering the whole eastern skyline" said Rincavage. "It had already started to fade but I was lucky enough to snap a few shots before it totally vanished." The shot was taken on May 6, 2011 at about 5 p.m.

Look for Rincavage's photo on the 2012 Maryland Wine Artist Series poster, available to Maryland Wine Festival Premier Tent attendees.

Congratulations to Steve Rincavage. If you are interested in entering our annual photo contest, click this link for more details! Hide

While Maryland wine has been cultivated, consumed, awarded and applauded by many, even some of those most involved in the industry do not know all of the deep secrets that it holds. When was the first mention of wine and grapes in the state of Maryland? How did the... read more >

While Maryland wine has been cultivated, consumed, awarded and applauded by many, even some of those most involved in the industry do not know all of the deep secrets that it holds. When was the first mention of wine and grapes in the state of Maryland? How did the Maryland wine industry fare before and during the Prohibition—and how soon later was the creation of Maryland’s first commercial winery? Most importantly: who were the first faces of Maryland wine?

Regina Mc Carthy, in her new book “Maryland Wine: A Full-Bodied History,” answers these questions and more, covering over 350 years of growth within the wine industry in just under 150 pages.

"McCarthy's research shows that Marylanders led the nation's winegrowing efforts, from Tenis Palee's planting in 1648 to Boordy's Philip Wagner leading the state's post-Prohibition renaissance," said Buddy Hance, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Agriculture.

Mc Carthy’s stories, which begin chronologically and end regionally, are both carefully investigated and carefully assembled; “Maryland Wine: A Full-Bodied History” contains detailed accounts of the beginnings of winemaking in Maryland, even going so far as to include the influence that Philip Wagner—the author of the first book on winemaking in America—had on one of Maryland’s very own wineries, Boordy Vineyards.

“We’re thrilled to have our growing industry’s legacy recorded by Mc Carthy,” says Dick Seibert, president of the Maryland Wineries Association. “Her thoroughness is commendable.”

In writing the book, Mc Carthy pays special attention to the major personalities of Maryland wine industry’s history, bringing them to life in a way that no one has before. History—and the wine industry’s robust legacy—is presented so that we understand and appreciate what these Maryland winemakers, grape growers and vineyard owners have been through in order to deliver the beautiful, award-winning wine they do today.

Regina Mc Carthy works as the marketing coordinator for Maryland Wineries Association in Timonium, Maryland. She studied Mass Communication with a specialization in Public Relations at Towson University. As a native Marylander, Mc Carthy enjoys working in the Maryland wine industry alongside some very dedicated, enthusiastic winemakers, winery owners and their staff and families.

BUY THE BOOK AT HISTORYPRESS.NET or at your favorite winery.

Here is a schedule of Regina's upcoming book signings:
April 7: St.Michaels Winery: 1 – 3 p.m.
April 14: Basignani Winery: 2 – 4 p.m.
April 21-22: Decanter Wine Festival 12 – 6 p.m.
May 6: Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard 1 – 3 p.m.
May 12: Greetings and Readings, Hunt Valley 1 – 3 p.m.
May 26: Loew Vineyards 1 – 3 p.m.
June 9: Barnes & Noble, Bel Air 2 – 4 p.m. Hide

In the past ten years or so, particularly amidst all the concern facing the changing global climate, many Americans have made a noble decision: green or bust. If you’re not entirely sure what this means, here’s a little crash course. Day-to-day, we are... read more >

In the past ten years or so, particularly amidst all the concern facing the changing global climate, many Americans have made a noble decision: green or bust.

If you’re not entirely sure what this means, here’s a little crash course. Day-to-day, we are each faced with microscopic, seemingly insignificant decisions: should I bother turning off the light when I leave a room? I mean, I was planning on coming back in ten minutes, after all, and then I’d need the light again! Who really wants to exert themselves for no apparent gain?

This is the beauty of the green movement. Nothing we do, no decision we make, should be arbitrary—and the green movement does well in shaking us awake, reminding us that our decision to turn off a light in a room or to throw our water bottles in a recycling bin means something. We can change the world.

But the real question is what does this have to do with our local wineries?
I come bearing great news, readers: in case you had any doubt, I can confirm that our Maryland wineries have been fighting the good, green fight since the very beginning. Many of their philosophies are not only gripping, but also inspiring. They are paving the way for a brighter, greener tomorrow.

Anthony Aellen, owner of Linganore Winecellars, has recently installed a huge solar panel and charging stations at his winery and regards the changes as “just two more steps in the thirty-year process of being environmentally friendly—I think of it as being environmentally smart.”

His stance is impressive, and it’s clear that he’s been an advocate of going green since 1977: becoming “environmentally smart,” then—for our wineries and for Linganore Winecellars in Maryland—is more a journey than it is a destination. “What I do at the winery and what we do as an industry relates directly to what hap- pens out in the field,” Aellen continues.

“What we see and what we do directly affects the environment; it’s all about sustainability.”

Down the road from Linganore, Black Ankle also practices green. “The winery started this way,” Melissa Schulte of Black Ankle Vineyards assured me. When Ed Boyce and Sarah O’Herron purchased the property in 2002, they focused on utilizing every aspect of it in expanding their business. “The Tasting Room,” for instance, Melissa says, “is made of 90% of materials found on the property.” This includes wood, straw, soil, clay, and water. According to their website, they constructed the Tasting Room “almost exclusively with local, sustainable, healthy materials”.

Wineries taking the next step in going green are not limited to the Frederick County area. Terrapin Station Winery boxes most of their wine, instead of bottling it. This reduces the weight of moving the finished wine, which reduces fuel costs, and the boxes and bags inside the boxes are recyclable. Terrapin Station Winery also donates a portion of their proceeds to The Terrapin Institute which is helping to save the Maryland State Reptile (also the University of Maryland Mascot!).

Kevin Atticks, the executive director of Maryland Wineries Association, reaffirms the notion that vineyards across the state are a green crop: when you plant a vine, it yields fruit for up to thirty years or more. “One of the primary concerns about agriculture is the soil erosion and nutrient runoff into the bay,” Atticks states. “When you plant grapes, the ground is only disturbed once and then not again for another thirty years.” Through planting grapes, the wine industry is fundamentally sustainable and healthy for the environment.

There you have it: when it comes to going green, our grape growers and winemakers in Maryland really know how to do it the right way. Even though some of us may occasionally fall short when it comes to utilizing our resources smartly, we can rest assured, knowing that these winemakers will not stop in the endless pursuit of a greener tomorrow.

by Justin Krajeski Hide

The Maryland Wineries Association in conjunction with the Maryland Jockey Club presents the second annual Decanter: A Celebration of Maryland Wine & Racing on April 21-22, in the infield of Pimlico Race Course. Tickets start at $30 and feature an infield vantage... read more >

The Maryland Wineries Association in conjunction with the Maryland Jockey Club presents the second annual Decanter: A Celebration of Maryland Wine & Racing on April 21-22, in the infield of Pimlico Race Course.

Tickets start at $30 and feature an infield vantage point to all turf and dirt races, samples of Maryland wine, access to local artisans and specialty food, available for purchase, all under white tents.
 
Attendees can purchase an upgraded Decanter Pass that includes a full size Riedel wine glass and samples of exclusive “Decanter” wines from each winery. Decanter Pass holders will also have access to a Racing 101 class taught by the Maryland Jockey Club. Decanter Passes are available for $50.

All tickets are available now on www.DecanterWineFestival.com.

“The Maryland Jockey Club is excited to partner with the Maryland Wineries Association for our second annual Decanter Wine Festival,” said Tom Chuckas, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Maryland Jockey Club. “Horse racing and local wine are two great Maryland traditions and together make a great pairing.”

“We love this event,” said Kevin Atticks, executive director of the Maryland Wineries Association. “Watching the races from the unique turf-side vantage point while enjoying local wines is quite an experience.”

The event is from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday, and the event is rain or shine. No ticket refunds will be offered. Media and other sponsorships are still available. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the gate.

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The Office of the Comptroller’s Alcohol and Tobacco Tax Annual Report shows that the wineries of Maryland sold 181,000 more bottles of wine in 2011 than 2010; an 11.6% increase.  Wineries increased their share of the state wine market to 2.38% and total sales... read more >

The Office of the Comptroller’s Alcohol and Tobacco Tax Annual Report shows that the wineries of Maryland sold 181,000 more bottles of wine in 2011 than 2010; an 11.6% increase.  Wineries increased their share of the state wine market to 2.38% and total sales came in at over $19 million dollars for the year.

The industry maintained momentum after the last two years' legislative changes, such as the passage of both the Winery Modernization Bill and the Direct Shipping Bill.

“This industry grows more than just good wine," said Comptroller Peter Franchot. "It promotes agriculture, tourism and land preservation, all while adding to the state’s bottom line through job creation and tax revenue.”

Industry programs like Maryland Wine Week and new events such as Decanter and Eat•Drink•Go LOCAL create opportunities for Marylanders and wine lovers from outside the state.

“Wine and culinary tourism is one of the top reasons people travel, and Maryland's wineries are no exception," said Hannah Byron, Assistant Secretary of Maryland's Division of Tourism, Film and the Arts. "With over 50 wineries, five wine trails and many events throughout the year, visitors from around the world travel to this region to uncork a bottle in Maryland."

“This is further proof that agriculture is a growing industry in Maryland, creating high-quality jobs to support the state’s rural economy,” said Maryland Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance.

“The Maryland Wineries Association is thrilled about the industry growth in 2011,” said Dick Seibert, president of the Maryland Wineries Association. “This growth indicates that more Marylanders are eating, drinking and choosing local businesses and products. This growth also shows that wineries are economic engines that create jobs.”


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Additional resources:
Comptroller's Alcohol and Tobacco Tax Annual Report
Maryland Wineries Association Hide

Port of Leonardtown Winery is pleased to showcase the work of budding photographic artist, Katie Buckler, in the winery tasting room beginning Tuesday, January 24, 2012.   A member of one of St. Mary’s County’s deep rooted families, Katie photographs... read more >

Port of Leonardtown Winery is pleased to showcase the work of budding photographic artist, Katie Buckler, in the winery tasting room beginning Tuesday, January 24, 2012.
 
A member of one of St. Mary’s County’s deep rooted families, Katie photographs scenes common to the region with a fresh new perspective.  Her photographs provide the viewer with a glimpse of her subject they might have otherwise missed.  Katie’s work can be found at many local art and craft events and she was a return participant in the annual WARMTH Art Show at the Camalier House in Leonardtown to support the Three Oaks Center.
 
Katie will be available in the Tasting Room on Friday evening, February 3, 2012 to show and discuss her work.  Katie’s work will be available for sale at the winery tasting room Wednesdays through Sundays – 12 noon to 6:00 p.m.

About Port of Leonardtown Winery: Early in 2008, the Southern Maryland Wine Growers Cooperative (SMWGC), T/A (trading as) Port of Leonardtown Winery, partnered with St. Mary's County Government and the Town of Leonardtown to complete a feasibility study to ensure success of grape growing in Southern Maryland and to examine potential markets for the grape production. The outcome was that the SMWGC entered into a lease agreement with the Town of Leonardtown in 2009 to operate the cooperative winery. The Port of Leonardtown Winery first started producing wine from the 2009 grape harvest, using berries from both local and regional vineyards. Port of Leonardtown Winery is open for tasting and purchase Wednesday through Sunday noon to 6 pm with extended hours on First Friday and other special dates.  The winery is located near Route 5 just off Newtowne Neck Road in Leonardtown. We can be found on the web at www.portofleonardtownwinery.com or 301-690-2192. Hide

Have you taken great photographs of local wineries and vineyards in the past year? Enter our annual photo contest for a chance to win $500! See all the details here. CDs must be postmarked no later than January 13th. read more >

Have you taken great photographs of local wineries and vineyards in the past year? Enter our annual photo contest for a chance to win $500! See all the details here. CDs must be postmarked no later than January 13th. Hide