A big THANK YOU to our sponsors over at the Maryland Wineries Association for writing a contributing blog post for #WTC15. We look forward to meeting all the great wineries and tourism associations who promote and support their local wines in just a few weeks!
MARYLAND WINE – Written by the Maryland Wineries Association
Welcome to the world of Maryland Wine! Maryland has over 75 wineries producing 400+ award-winning wines in every style.
Red wine drinkers will love our Bordeaux varieties—such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec—plus, Syrah, Chambourcin, Pinot Noir, our many Meritage blends and beyond.
The state’s white wine offerings are extensive, spanning all styles…from crisp to rich to off-dry. Enjoy Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Grüner Veltliner, Albariño, Vidal Blanc, Seyval, Viognier and Traminette, to name just a few. Find anything from fine aged port, late-harvest to fruit wines, sparkling, ciders, and more…truly something for all palates.
Tour our wine country to experience Maryland’s fine territory and learn why so many locals ask for Maryland Wine.
Maryland Wine is….
Historic. The “Father of American Viticulture,” John Adlum is recognized for starting the cultivation of wine in our region in 1798. John Adlum began harvesting grapes in Havre de Grace and shared his love of wine and viticulture with Founding Father, Thomas Jefferson. Adlum and Jefferson connected over a shared dedication to vine cultivation and continued the friendship throughout the span of their careers, as well as sharing wines and vineyard tips.
While viticulture was introduced to the Maryland area during the colonial times, Maryland winemaking as an art took off after the repeal of the Eighteenth Amendment, at the end of Prohibition, specifically with the vines planted by Baltimore’s Evening Sun editor Philip Wagner at Boordy Vineyards in 1945. As the industry grew, so did the varietals and types of wines created. The traditions of meads and fruit wines grew with the success of Linganore Winecellars, and Ham Mowbray introduced French traditional varietals as well as creating the first American ice wine!
Authentic. We are a craft industry; the titles “winemaker” and “chief glass-washer” are often interchangeable. When visiting, there is a good chance that you will meet the families responsible for the award-winning wine in your glass.
Local. Great win can be found throughout the world, and the wines of Maryland are no exception. Our wines are being highlighted in competitions, restaurant wine lists and national publications. Wineries source grapes, fruit and honey from growers throughout the state and region, and many grow their own on acres of estate vineyards. If it says “Maryland” on the label, it’s home-grown.
Superb. Check MarylandWine.com to see the many commendations awarded to our wines from the Governor’s Cup Competition, Winemasters Choice Awards and national and international competitions.
Come meet the folks at Maryland Wine Association and lots of other great wine promoting partners at the 2016 Wine Tourism Conference in Leesburg Loudoun County, VA November 18-20. Also be sure to check out our informative pre-con workshops on Wednesday November 17th