USBevX 2018: #Wine Writers, What Are They Looking For?

Photo Courtesy of  Kathy Lang Wiedermann -Virginia Made

A huge thanks to Jenn Nelson of Wine Antics for live blogging the Wine Writers, What Are They Looking For? session at the 2018 US Wine & Beverage Conference. This two-day conference in Washington D.C. is targeted towards wineries to provide education in the fields of vineyard management, wine-making, and marketing.  The Wine Writers session was one of a few that were very relevant to content providers and fortunately I was able to watch the proceedings live via Jenn's video.  This session was moderated by Eric Guerra, Chief Marketing & Sales Officer Terravant Wine Company, and featured Carlo DeVito Owner Hudson-Chatham Winery  plus three wine writers: Lenn Thompson, Frank Morgan, and Paul Vigna. A stellar cast.  I would strongly encourage interested readers to watch the entire video, but here are my comments on what was discussed and what was omitted. Cheers.

Educate Tasting Room Staff
This dictum should be obvious but even the organizers of USBevX realized it's lacking since they created a session on this very topic. Perhaps, turnover is a contributing factor, but I continue to witness this irritating display of ignorance.  On one extreme, I remember Dezel Quillen's (MyVineSpot) story how he mispronounced Virginia's signature grape Vee-og-ney for a substantial period because that's how a staff member pronounced it during his introduction to the grape. On the lesser extreme I've engaged staff who are unfamiliar with where a vinifera grape originated, a blend composition, or even what grapes are planted in the estate vineyard.  Simply unacceptable. And staff should be honest if they do not know the answer to a question. Do not guess. One tip that Lenn Thompson suggested was not only sending writers technical sheets, but post that information on your website. I would expand that and suggest having technical sheets available at the tasting room. At the very least, it would assist educating the staff and more importantly it can be distributed to wine geeks who ask more probing questions.

Tell a Story
How can wineries differentiate their brand from the hundreds or even thousands of competing options? That question not only was raised during this session, but has been overarching dilemma of the craft wine explosion.  In addition to producing the best wine possible, a common answer is to create compelling stories behind your establishment. Frank Morgan mentioned Old Westminster Winery as an example with their family story and social media engagement.  However, the story doesn't have to revolve solely around the family.  The region's history can be stressed as is the case at The Winery at Bull Run who display Civil War artifacts in their tasting room.  Another option is highlighting a particular grape variety. Hudson-Chatham's story revolves around Baco Noir -- although their Chelois is just as intriguing.  If you produce an Albarino, focus on the grape's Galicia home as well as how your wine differs from those from Riax Baixas - perhaps through annual comparative tastings. Even normally pedestrian grapes such as Pinot Gris can be a focal point. Recently I tasted a rather noteworthy Pinot Gris from Boordy Vineyards. When I mentioned this to Dr. Joe Fiola, his eyes gleamed as he enthusiastically discussed the specific vineyard block that produced that wine. Boordy should share that knowledge - perhaps present samples of dirt in the tasting room and explain how the soil and sunlight affect the wine. Provide us a reason to visit.

Expand Beyond Experienced Content Providers
A valid question was raised during the seminar on how to differentiate between the bloggers, particularly when new content providers seem to be appearing overnight. The panelists gave two equally valid responses. First, look for content providers who have organically written about your area as this demonstrates a degree of excitement towards your location. Paul Vigna's Penn Live is a nice example of an outlet that reports on winery tours in underrepresented locations. At the very least any state or regional winery board worth their salt should have a list of content providers that have written about that area.  The second response was to seek content providers who have large audiences. Now in some instances, these audiences may simply be the result of longevity, but at least the blogger\writer has sustained a passion for covering the wine industry.

However, I would caution about relying solely on these more experienced bloggers. You could easily overlook many talented and engaging content providers with small but growing readership. Being in the longevity camp, it is refreshing to encounter younger and perhaps more enthusiastic content providers who are not just seeking free samples. And in the DMV region there is no shortage of groups that you can contact to locate these individuals. A few Facebook examples are the Young Wino's of DC, Black Wine Lovers, and I have to include the more senior Virginia Wine Mafia.

Finally, the discussion was exclusively focused on print.  Yet there's a large array of media that are covering  craft beverage industries. Wine Antics is one example of live video blogging. There are also podcasters, social media providers, and others outside my realm. Try something different such as Winemaker's Drinking Beer. There are numerous outlets beyond experienced print bloggers.

Remembering the 2017 Maryland Winter Wine Showcase

I just registered for the 2018 Winter Wine Showcase, an annual tasting at the B&O Railroad Museum where Maryland wineries feature two of their top wines. During the 2017 event I was very impressed with the quality across the board, but two Albarino wines stood out. These were the Boordy Vineyards 2016 South Mountain Vineyard Albariño ($20) and Port of Leonardtown Winery 2015 Maryland Albariño ($20). I had been saving both in order to conduct a comparative tasting with a few from Rias Baixas (Albarino's native homeland in Galacia Spain) but was instructed to open each sooner rather than later. That still is in insteresting concept considering that neither of the Maryland wines exhibit the minerally driven character associated with Riax Baixas Albarinos. Instead the Maryland wines are more stone fruit forward, with creamy depth, and finishing with plenty of acidity. Somewhat Viognier-ish. They are both delicious wines. Cheers to 2017 and best wishes for 2018.

2017 Maryland Wine Governors Cup Award Ceremony

"Agriculture is such an important part of our history, our heritage, and our economy," said Governor Hogan. "That is why it is in the best interest of our state to keep our farms growing and thriving, and that includes our vineyards and our rapidly growing wine industry. Our wine producers are doing so much for Maryland, and the Governor’s Cup competition brings together the best of the best among Maryland-produced wines." -- Maryland Governor Lawrence J. Hogan, Jr.

The judging for the 29th Annual Maryland Governor’s Cup Competition took place August 13 where over 30 regional wine experts tasted over 150 different wines across the multiple styles of sparkling, whites, rosés, reds, fruit, and cider. This past Monday, December 11th the winners were presented their awards by Maryland's First Lady Yumi Hogan at Old Maryland Grill in College Park. This new restaurant focuses on Maryland sourced food and complements meals with a full range of Maryland craft beverages. In fact, Proprietor Mike Franklin also owns the long running Franklin’s Brewery not far away in Hyattsville and visited over 50 Maryland wineries to round out the cellar. These include many of the competition winners which noted Maryland wine expert and Lead Judge Al Spoler commented that this year's entry's were the best across the board. Based on the reception following the awards ceremony, I concur completely.

Newcomer Cool Ridge Vineyard was the clear and unsuspecting champion of the competition where it was awarded two Best of Class medals for their Cool White 2016 ($21) and Cool Red 2015 ($32), with the later earning the Governor’s Cup Best in Show. Not bad for first time entrants. The red blend consists of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 20% Merlot and 15% Petit Verdot and is delicious. Simply delicious. Owner Gerhard Glocker was quite gracious and was just as proud of his Gold medal single varietal 2015 Cabernet Franc ($27). The winery and vineyard is located in Washington County near Hagerstown and there's no wonder that Old Westminster Winery sources their fruit for their Cool Ridge Vineyard, Limestone ($32) - a blend of 70% Grüner Veltliner and 30% Viognier.

 "The Jack Aellen Cup is a recent addition to the competition and specifically highlights fruit wine, cider and mead. The cup is named after Linganore Winecellars founder, Jack Aellen, who pioneered wines from fruit and honey in Maryland" . This year the winner was Great Shoals Winery Hard Plum 2016 ($16). Made from Japanese Shiro plums grown in Carroll County, the wine is made in a cider style - light bodied but plenty of flavor. Legally, its a wine since cider can only be made from apples or pears, but for all intents this is one fabulous cider. Move over Spencerville Red.

The remaining Best of Class wines were equally impressive with the Big Cork Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2015 ($46). Tasty young, the wine will age nicely as the tannins mingle with the dark fruit. The Willow Oaks Craft Cider and Wine Gloaming NV (500ml $25) starts funky and tannic then transitions to sweet tartness from organic black currants; another newcomer that impresses. Black Ankle Vineyards Terra Sol 2016 ($30) is a late harvest Grüner Veltliner and a successful experiment as it is very clean with plenty of acids to balance the sugar. Finally, I was fascinated with the Boordy Vineyards Pinot Gris 2016 ($16). The wine is flavorful and weighty - both, according to Dr. Joe Fiola, the result of vineyard selection and not wine-making techniques (no lees or malo and fermented in stainless steel). Cheers to Maryland wine.

Best in Show
Governor’s Cup Winner: Cool Ridge Vineyard • Cool Red 2015 ($32) (Washington Co.)
Jack Aellen Cup Winner: Great Shoals Winery • Hard Plum 2016 ($16) (Montgomery Co.)

Best in Class
Best Sparkling: Turkey Point Vineyard • Elk Neck Bubbly 2016 (Cecil Co.)
Best White: Boordy Vineyards • Pinot Gris 2016 ($16) (Baltimore Co.)
Best White Blend: Cool Ridge Vineyard • Cool White 2016 ($21) (Washington Co.)
Best Rosé: Crow Vineyard • Barbera Rosé 2016 ($16) (Kent Co.)
Best Red: Big Cork Vineyards • Cabernet Franc 2015 ($42) (Washington Co.)
Best Red Blend: Cool Ridge Vineyard • Cool Red 2015 ($32) (Washington Co.)
Best Sweet: Dove Valley Winery • Mr. Bentley’s Choice 2014 (Cecil Co.)
Best Dessert: Black Ankle Vineyards • Terra Sol 2016 ($30) (Frederick Co.)
Best Cider: Willow Oaks Craft Cider and Wine • Gloaming NV (500ml $25) (Frederick Co.)
Best Fruit: Great Shoals Winery • Hard Plum 2016 ($16) (Montgomery Co.)

Bourbon Barrel Aged Wine with Barrel Road Red Blend

Bourbon barrel aging is standard practice in the craft beer world and this practice is slowly making its way into wine. Maryland's The Urban Winery Bourbon Aged Merlot was the first I tasted during the 2017 Winter Wine Showcase with satisfying results. Then recently I received a bottle of the Barrel Road 2015 Bourbon Barrel Red Blend ($16.99) from Wine Trees USA. This is a proprietary blend of grapes sourced from California's Central Coast and after fermentation aged three months in the once used bourbon barrels. The barrels are courtesy of Indiana's Backbone Bourbon who source their whiskey from MGP of Indiana. The short length of aging allows the wine to acquire subtle notes of vanilla and baking spices without hindering the fruit character of the wine. This is a quality wine at a great value - a hit for Thanksgiving. Thumbs up and cheers.

History, Hiking, Wine, Cider, and Mead in Maryland's Antietam Highlands #Wine Trail

The Maryland Wine Association has clustered wineries into several wine trails with one, the Antietam Highlands Wine Trail, located not far from Washington DC -- just northwest of Frederick. The trail encompasses the South Mountain (2,140 feet high above the Potomac River), five national parks, 10 state parks, more than 30 museums, as well as the historic Antietam National Battlefield - sadly the bloodiest single day of battle in U.S. history. From Frederick head west on 340 towards Harpers Ferry to reach Big Cork Vineyards, Distillery Lane Ciderworks, as well as the Gathland State Park between the two. Stopping at the state park is highly recommended in order to hike parts of the Appalachian Trail and visit the War Correspondents Arch plus the George Alfred Townsend museum. Many may notice that the ruins and woods within the park were used in the Blair Witch Project.

The first stop was to  Distillery Lane Ciderworks, producers of several extremely unique hard ciders. This seven year old operation lies on a historic farm that was used by Union soldiers as a camp site before Antietam. The Miller family purchased the property in 2001 and planted an apple orchard with cider, bitter, and eating apples. On my visit there were six ciders in the tasting room, a combination of sparkling, still, and barrel aged. The tasting started with the Celebration and Rio sparkling ciders, the first a dry and flavorful and the second aged in used A. Smith Bowman Distillery rye whiskey barrels. I bonded with this cider, the rye subtle but adding texture and slight spice. The Jefferson is their flagship still cider, made from the Newtown Pippin and named after our third President who preferred the Newton - aka the Albemarle Pippin. This is a solid cider, flavorful, depth, tart, and dry. The Kingston Black is another 100% varietal but with a touch of sugar that is balanced with the apple's natural acidity.  The Scrumpy is very unique, an English cider that is cloudy, funky, and slightly effervescent. The tasting concluded with the Fireside, apple wine infused with spices. A very nice lineup. I left with the Rio and Scrumpy in bag.

Big Cork Vineyards is only a ten minute drive from Distillery Lane and its easy to site this impressive facility from the road. The winery opened several years ago after Randy Thompson hired Dave Collins first to scour a vineyard site and then lured him from Breaux Vineyards as the winemaker.  From previous tastings,  the wines - made from 100% estate fruit - have been delicious - although I have not experienced the breadth of their diverse portfolio.  This day the whites were all 2015 vintages starting with the Chardonnay ($24) -- slightly buttery, but allowing the characteristic fruit flavor to shine. The Viognier ($22) was also as expected with floral, stone fruit, and velvety characters. On the off-dry side, the Vidal Blanc ($16) came across drier with its bright acids and the Russian Kiss ($22), a blend of three Russian varieties and Muscat, was fantastic. Moving to the 2014 vintages of red wines, the Meritage ($28) was solid, but the highlights were the Cabernet Franc ($36) and Nebbiolo ($42) - a Breaux favorite as well. The later sucked the mouth dry and with the amble acidity should lay down for quite sometime. The CF was full bodied, full of dark black fruit, some velvety texture, and noticeable tannins. Another that should age nicely. Finally, at the Winter Wine Festival I sampled their 100% estate grown raspberry Black Cap Port ($46) and it is all raspberries - with the brandy fortification taking a back seat.

We stayed so long at Big Cork I was unable to visit Orchid Cellar Meadery & Winery, which is located about 10 minutes northeast. The winery is the source for the best mead in the state - particularly the Hunter ($24). Next trip, as well as Mazzaroth Vineyard. And come April another cider house joins the trail with the opening of Willow Oaks Craft Cider and Wine. As always theCompass Winery, Brewery, Distillery Locator Mobile App will guide you to these destinations.

2017 Maryland Winter Wine Showcase

The Maryland Wineries Association just held their 2017 Winter Wine Showcase at the Baltimore B&O Railroad Museum. As the name indicates this event provides an opportunity for Maryland wineries to showcase two of their best wines during the Roundhouse Tasting. The tasting occurred under the museum's B&O Roundhouse dome and amidst the largest collection of historic trains in the country. The showcase also included a Sparkling Wine Reception featuring five tasty sparkling wines.

Overall, the tasting was fantastic -- starting with the setting. The B&O Railroad Museum is filled with unique and interesting pieces and information culminating in the rotunda housing the historic trains. Second, the wines poured demonstrated once again that the Maryland wine industry is improving both in the quality of wines and diversity of the varietals. Almost the entire European continent was represented as we started in Spanish Galicia and Albarino, then roamed through the Italian Piedmont with Barbera, northwards to Austria and Gruner Veltliner, before settling in the Rhone Valley with Viognier, and Syrah.  These grape varieties were virtually nonexistent in the Old Line State a decade ago. But Boordy Vineyards, Port of Leonardtown Winery, Great Shoals Winery, Crow Farm and Vineyard, Old Westminster Winery,  Black Ankle Vineyards, Catoctin Breeze Vineyard, and Big Cork Vineyards and others are proving that these grapes can excel in the diverse Maryland micro-climates.

That being said, Chardonnay is still a major player with the Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard 2014 Chardonnay Reserve ($30) my favorite of the evening. (Their 2013 EVOE! red blend ($41) was also well received.)  And Rocklands Farm and Turkey Point Vineyard showed Chardonnay based blends that were fresh, tasty, and affordable - the 2015 White Oak ($23) and  2015 Lighthouse White ($24) respectively.  A few other notable wines were the Vineyards At Dodon Sauvignon Blanc ($24), the Layton's Chance Vineyard and Winery 2014 Reserve Norton ($27), which was void of any astringency and jammy characters, the Chateau Bu De Bohemia Manor Farm.barrel sample Cabernet Franc (a phenomenal wine albeit soon to be an expense wine at $75), and The Urban Winery's 2015 Bourbon Barrel Aged Merlot ($25). Whereas this wine was a blend of traditional oak and bourbon aged Merlot, I actually preferred the 100% bourbon aged Merlot that was available as well. I almost forgot the Old Westminster Winery 2014 Cabernet Franc ($35) both here and during the tasting. A delicious wine.  Because of the breadth in quality I am overlooking several wines but rest assured if you plan a trip to Maryland wine country with theCompass you will not be disappointed. Cheers.

A Holistic Farm Winery in Montgomery County Maryland: Rocklands Farm

On June 27, 1863 Confederate Gen. J.E.B. Stuart and 5,000 cavalrymen began crossing the Potomac River at Rowser's Ford in Seneca, Montgomery County Maryland. His immediate destination was Rockville and wagon trains to capture with a long term destination into Pennsylvania - launching the Gettysburg Campaign. But in Seneca his troops burned boats, damaged the locks on the C&O canal, and helped themselves to the produce and meat from the rich farmland that is now the Agricultural Reserve of Montgomery County.

One of these farms was most likely the predecessor of Rocklands Farm - a farm winery practicing "holistic" agriculture. The farm raises chickens, hogs, cattle, sheep, and goats as well as growing numerous types of vegetables and fruit - which includes 8 acres of vines.  These vineyards consist of diverse grape varieties such as Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Chambourcin, Norton, and Concord for reds and Chardonnay, Chardonel, Gruner Veltliner, and Semillon for whites. The winemaker is TJ Fleming - a middle school science teacher who helped start the winery while also studying Enology and Viticulture through UC Davis.

On our visit on a late Saturday afternoon the winery was crowded with visitors walking the farm, lounging about, or participating in a wedding. However the tasting bar was wide open to sample their eight wines available that day. In general these wines were well made and represented the varietals they encapsulated. And the gentlemen pouring the wines was extremely informed regarding the grape varieties. For the whites the semi-dry Honey Blossom Vidal Blanc ($19) was spot on floral, citrusy and acidic. The dry White Oak Chardonnay Blend ($24) was very interesting, shades of slightly oaked Chardonnay but also hints of 16% Chardonel, 8% Vidal Blanc, and 4% Grüner Veltliner. I brought a bottle to a family function that evening and it quickly disappeared. The five reds ranged from a light bodied, but spicy Farmhouse Chambourcin Blend ($23) and a unique off-dry Medley Sparkling Chambourcin ($23) to a much darker and stronger Montevideo Petit Verdot Blend ($35). And the tasting concludes with a clean dessert wine in the Bramble ($25) which consists of Blackberries, Chambourcin, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Rocklands Farm is a destination winery in the sense that there is no reason to leave - spend the day walking the farm, enjoying the brick oven pizza and wine. And as always, theCompass Winery, Brewery, Distillery Locator Mobile App will show you the way. Cheers.

Mother's Day at Harford Vineyard & Winery

Ladew Gardens

Mother's Day lead us to a day trip to Maryland's horse country and Ladew Topiary Gardens and Harford Vineyard & Winery. The gardens are quite impressive and the winery, a mere 10 minute drive away. Part of the Piedmont Wine Trail, Harford Vineyard was established in 2003 growing Vidal Blanc and Traminette and adding Merlot later to their estate property. In 2009 they started producing wine and augment their portfolio with grapes grown in other Harford County vineyards - except for the California sourced Malbec.

The winery generally has eleven wines available ranging from dry reds to semi-dry whites to sweet wine. Their Chardonnay ($15) is fermented to .5% r.s. Even with a little sugar this is a tasty wine, although I wouldn't recognize the grape. On the other hand, the Vidal ($16) and Traminette ($15) were spot on, floral and acidic for the former, a tad spicy for the later.  Their Cabernet Franc ($20) was my favorite: medium bodied with cherry over green pepper flavors. As for the sweet wines the Peach Kissed ($15) is the best - a blend of peach juice and Vidal with the stone fruit ever present. Cheers to Maryland wine.

Linganore Winecellars Barrel Tasting: The Future Looks Bright

This year Linganore Winecellars is celebrating it's 40th anniversary as the winery opened in 1976 after planting their first vines 1972. They relied on Cornell University to help determine which grape varieties to plant and eventually became a test vineyard for their experiential grapes. In 1978 the winery augmented their grape production with fruit wines after a local plum grower lost a verbal contract. Today Linganore is a giant among local wineries producing 155 thousand gallons annually. And they are proud of their upcoming 2016 offerings and organized an industry tasting of these wines in preparation for a similar consumer barrel tasting available this weekend. Mostly known for their festival style and fruit wines, Linganore also produces a wide range of dry and off-dry wines. These wines were the focus of our visit.

Second generation winemaker Anthony Aellen, Marketing Director Jessica Garcia, and a trio of young winemakers led our group on a tasting of several wines fermenting and aging for a future release.  After a brief introduction about the history of the Aellen family and winery (available here) we entered the tank room to sample the off-dry, Cayuga based White Raven. In the past this wine was 100% Cayuga but this year they blended it with 18% Chardonnay which added much needed weight. At .5% R.S., this wine comes off completely dry.  Later in the tasting room we sampled the current release which falls flat in comparison.

We then moved to the barrel room laden with rows of American, French, and even Bulgarian oak barrels. We started with the a sample of the base that will eventually become their méthode champenoise Sparkling Cuvee. The Vignoles grapes were harvested early in order to retain more acids and is currently aging in neutral oak. There is still an element of toastiness that blends with the grape's citrus flavors.  I'm looking forward to seeing this base transition to a sparkling wine. We next tasted what will become their Reserve Chardonnay. This wine will eventually see eight months in oak and we we tasted it half way through the process. It starts with a buttery aroma, but the oak influences fade as the Chardonnay flavors dominate to the finish. Linganore's winemakers are waiting for the oak to integrate in finish and then it's off to bottling. Again, later in the tasting room, we sampled the current 2014 Reserve Chardonnay and it was fantastic. Perhaps the best wine from Linganore that I had tasted - bright fruit, texture, just a little oak presence, and plenty of acids. We concluded our tasting of whites with a Late Harvest Vignoles that is in it's second year in barrel. I was ready to take this home now, layers of creamy lemons unfolded throughout the palate. I wonder where this wine is headed?

Moving to reds, Linganore grows Chambourcin, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and even Barbera -- although they usually augment their Barbera with fruit from a grower near Westminster. In 2015 the winery was able to harvest the Chambourcin and Petit Verdot just before a two week rain deluge, but the Cabernet had to wait until after the storms. The Cab and Barbera were still undergoing malolatic fermentation, which all reds undertake in order to reduce their acid levels, so we sampled just the Chambourcin and Petit Verdot. Both of these were from three year old vines producing their first commercial harvest. And they were tasting well, particularly the PV which possessed loads of deep cherry flavors. They may bottle this as a single varietal wine or it may be used to augment the Cabernet in their Red Skins wine. We were also able to sample three dry reds in the bottle which were just waiting on labels before release. Their Bacioni (Italian for "A Big Kiss") is Barbara based and is a fruit forward friendly wine with easy tannins on the finish. And at $15, a great value. The Estate Chambourcin is more complex but still easy on the palate. And the Reserve Cabernet, a blend of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, is tasting nicely as well. This is a creamy textured wine with more tannins and acids than the previous two. Nicely done again.

Our last endeavor was to sample their Port styled wines aging in barrel, all fortified with neutral grape spirits. We started with their 2015 Ruby Chambourcin that has been in barrel for only three months. It was big, but aggressive with acids taking over the profile. We then sampled the 2014 Ruby Chambourcin that was entering it's second year in barrel. The contrast showed the benefits of this extra year as the wine was rounder, the caramel flavors more prevalent, and it had a much more pleasant finish. Afterwards Anthony couldn't help himself and indulged us with a barrel tasting of their Black Raspberry port styled wine. He's justly proud of this wine. First you don't find that many black raspberry wines, but also, this wine tastes exactly like the fruit. He and the other winemakers at Linganore are justly proud of their upcoming releases. There's no reason to wait until a music festival. Visit anytime.

Beer and Wine Partner at Linganore Winecellars & Red Shedman Farm Brewery

The latest trend to hit the farm winery scene is the co-habitation of wineries and breweries offering a wider range of products to attract an audience. Corcoran Vineyards & Cider was perhaps the first to establish this amalgamation in the DC area, and others quickly followed in the Commonwealth. In Maryland, a couple of brothers have gone rogue and combined wine, beer, and cider at the Linganore Winecellars and Red Shedman Farm Brewery facilities. And with more lenient tasting regulations, the overall visit is much more enjoyable. In Virginia, the two operations must be completely segregated where beer must stay in one boundary, wine in another. Absolutely no mixing of the two onsite. However, in the Free State, visitors are free to walk around the winery grounds with a pint and Linganore wine can be brought into the brewery. Imagine that Virginia.

Linganore is one of the oldest operating wineries in Maryland, established by Jack and Lucille Aellen in 1971, and succeeded by their son Anthony in the early 1980s, with another son Eric later managing the vineyards. The winery is known for their broad portfolio of sweet to dry wines as well as their numerous music festivals. Another brother Victor stayed out of the family business for most of his adult life until he escaped corporate America to work in the brewery industry in Grand Rapids Michigan. Eventually the Aellen's decided that adding a brewery to the successful winery would be the next logical progression so Victor returned to start Red Shedman. And Victor established their farm brewery credentials by cultivating several varieties of hops such as Cascade, Columbus, Chinook, Nugget and Crystal.


The brewery offers several styles of beer brewed from their fifteen-barrel brewhouse at the bottom floor of the facility. They also produce a cider, Silo Hard Cider, that is quite nice - very sweet and fruity up front, but finishes completely dry and tart. When visiting the brewery flights range from $8 to $10 for six beers. Besides standard IPAs and Blondes the brewery creates unique beers such as the Suicide Blonde White IPA (part classic Belgian Wit and part dry hopped IPA), Honey Rye, and Vanilla Porter. These were my favorites and I believe all available in cans. Cheers to Maryland wine and beer and as usual theCompass Winery, Brewery, Distillery Locator Mobile App can guide you to their location.

Maryland's Old Westminster Winery Opens New Tasting Room

Since it's inception, visitors to Old Westminster Winery were constricted to the winery's crush pad and a small area in the winery. In order to alleviate this situation the winery built a new spacious tasting facility with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating as well as unique oak tables and counter tops. And this weekend the winery is ready to celebrate the grand opening of this building.


On Thursday the winery held a Vine Cutting ceremony in order to give thanks to state and federal officials who facilitated its construction and to provide friends in the industry a sneak peak. Through several speeches, two facts became readily apparent. First, Carroll County Maryland understands that farm wineries and breweries are important facets to the county's economic development, housing values, and land preservation. Second, Old Westminster is gaining a wide reputation as one of the top producers in Maryland. Al Spoler, Cellar Notes on 88.1FM WYPR, is obviously a huge fan but so is Andrew Stover, who has been pimping their Albarino for the past year. I've had my share of samples and readily agree with this assessment, from Chardonnay at the 2013 DrinkLocalWine.com Conference to Thursday's samples of Greentone and Revelry, First Edition. The Revelry is an easy drinking blend of five Bordeaux varieties whereas the Greentone is a blend of 65% Sauvignon Blanc and 35% Viognier - both grown in the foothills of Maryland’s South Mountain. Dr. Joe Fiola mentioned that it's extremely rare in Maryland to produce a blend with Sauvignon Blanc (as it can overwhelm the other grapes), but Old Westminster exceeded so much this wine was awarded the Best White Blend at the 2015 Governor's Cup. Needless to say a visit to the winery is highly recommended. And as usual, theCompass Winery Brewery Distiller Locator app can guide your there. Cheers.

What Are the Best Wine Case Clubs in Virginia and Maryland?

Since Winter has stubbornly succumbed to Spring, I'll be navigating to Northern Virginia and Maryland wineries testing theCompass Winery Brewery Distillery Locator.  Despite traveling the wine roads for over a decade, I've never joined a wine case club. No particularly reason; but I think this is the year. Thus, I've researched local NOVA and MD wineries that offer clubs and asked for suggestions from the well informed members of the Virginia Wine Mafia Facebook group. Here are a few of their suggestions (plus a few hints from proactive wineries). Beneath that is a list of the wine club benefits for almost 30 Virginia and Maryland wineries. Cheers and safe travels.

Anthony Marocco of Virginia Pour House
By far the best wine club in the state has to be Rappahannock Cellars. Two bottles a month, flat rate 50 bucks, club appreciation events, and to top it ALL they offer 50% off ALL cases mixed or matched for all club members. So if you buy 12 bottles 6 at 30 bucks and 6 at 10 bucks, your price is 15 bucks for six and 5 bucks for the other six. How can you beat that? It allows for people to be able to afford to drink Virginia wine nightly if they choose rather than having to go to Trader Joe's.

Vicki Fedor North Gate Vineyards
No signup fee. 3 bottles every quarter, winemakers' choice, but you can switch out. 15% off that allotment. Pickup parties with extra tastings, barrel tastings, food, winemaker presentation. Any other time: 2 free tastings per visit, one group of 4 free tastings per quarter, 10% off bottles, 15% of 6 packs, 20% off cases. We're beginning to off after hours club only events, and have made several wines (with more to come) for members only. Members get discounted rentals.

Erica Johansson
I'm a member of Breaux Vineyards, Sunset Hills Vineyard & Winery, Fabbioli Cellars, and Hiddencroft Vineyards . They are all excellent clubs in what they offer, and the deals that they offer. One thing that is different among them is Hiddencroft's. It's a one time purchase of a case of wine...and you're a club member (2 free tastings each visit, and I forget what the discount on wine is?). But that's it. There's no further commitment required and you're still a case club member.

Silvia Miller, wine educator at Breaux Vineyards
We have 2 bottles every other month and the price is still the same since 2005 . And for the month of release you have the 20% discount of your current release, complementary tasting and more.

Kurt & Carol Jenson of Wine About Virginia
Our first was North Gate (see Vicki's post) and currently we also belong to Keswick, 3 bottles each quarter; Gadino, 2 bottles each quarter, and Breaux. We have been case club members (buy a case at one time, you are in for a year) of Linden for a couple years, and for the last year of Glen Manor. Plus Arterra.

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868 Estate Vineyards (Purcellville, VA) The Vine Case Club

• Quarterly shipments of the winemaker’s choice of wines which will include a selection of world trend wines, local Virginia wines and wines from 868.  (The cost will be between $65 – $85 plus s&h unless you choose to pick up the wines at 868 Estate.)
• A free standard tasting for yourself and a guest when you visit us at the vineyard
• A 10% discount on purchased wine and merchandise, excluding original art from our gallery
• A 20% discount on case purchases on event nights for The Vine
• Email notification of special events and promotions
• Our quarterly newsletter with features, wine and food pairings, tips and special offers

Arterra Wines (Delaplane, VA) The Vintage Priority Club or the Red White and Blue Club

• The Vintage Priority Club — Premium Reds: You will be invited to a futures tasting annually in the cellar with winemaker Jason Murray, where you will taste and choose your selection of wines for the year. While some younger drinking wines may be bottled but not released, others will still be in barrel, and others will be blended in stainless steel tanks in preparation for bottling. This is a unique experience. The initial 2013 offers Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Tannat. Varietals and quantities may change yearly, but potentially include Petit Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and our Reserve blend. (The wines will be sold at retail price. Attendance of the Futures Tasting will have an additional fee, but is not mandatory. Your ranking of choice of varietals and quantities will guide our allocation, but exact allotment cannot always be guaranteed due to fluctuations in vineyard yields that limit potential volumes of each individual wine — however, overall production of the wines in the future derived from vineyard blocks will be aimed towards matching club member preferences.)
• The Red, White, & Blue Club: As a thanks and tribute to the great people of America that rallied to help establish our business, and the amazing United States Department of Agriculture loans and grants that facilited our launch and left us thankful to be in the “Land of Opportunity,” the Red, White, & Blue Club further showcases the diversity of this great land, offered in metaphor as a diverse selection of our wines. Your annual allocation will include four bottles of Red wine, four bottles of White wine, and four bottles of Blueberry Apple Wine. Participation in this club is also very limited, due to minimal production of white wines at Arterra. The wines will be sold at retail price.

Barrel Oak Winery (Delaplane, VA) BOW Club

• Membership is only $195 for 2 years and includes
• 15% off all glass, bottle and case wine purchase
• Free BOW tasting for up to 8 individuals upon the Owner’s visit to the winery. (If a party greater than 8 is planned, please call BOW first to inquire about space availability)
• Free Vintage Piedmont Lifetime membership
• Special private club member parties from June to September

Black Ankle Vineyards (Mt. Airy, MD)

• Members opt to receive either four, six, or twelve bottles of wine, four times each year
• Access to limited production wines not available to the general public
• Exclusive opportunity to receive new wines before release to the public, retailers, and restaurants
• Complimentary tasting for Club Members and guests during visits to our tasting room
• Special invitations to members only events

Boordy Vineyards (Hydes, MD) The Landmark Club

• Receive the new vintage of every Landmark Series wine, including Reserve wines.
• Highly limited production wines will be set aside for Landmark Club members.
• Included in your quarterly wine packages will be a newsletter written for the Landmark Club by winemaker Tom Burns, vineyard manager Ron Wates, and owner Rob Deford; detailed tasting notes; and delicious recipes custom made for each wine.
• Pickup parties with 
• Wine activities such as tasting young wines straight from the barrel; vertical tastings of previous vintages; sales from Boordy's library of wines; and sales of limited release wines.
• Complimentary wine tastings at Boordy Vineyards for four people per visit.
• 10% off all Boordy wines purchased at the winery, Boordy's festival tent, or farmer's market booth - good for single bottle purchases or more.
• No membership fee.

Boxwood Winery (Middleburg, VA) Wine Club

• Two shipments a year in Spring & Fall
• Discount on purchases the day you join:
  • 20% Discount: Platinum Plus, Platinum, & Gold Levels
  • 10% Discount: Silver Level
• Discount during membership year
  • 15% case discount
  • 10% bottle discount
• Member Referral Program
• New release priority
• Exclusive quarterly events for Club Members
• Advance notification of all wine events at the Winery & Wine Bars

Chrysalis Vineyards (Middleburg, VA) VIP Wine Club

• Enjoy Chrysalis Vineyards premium wine selections hand selected by our winemaker, every month! This includes one white and red wine , a total of 2 wines – or – you may also choose the option of “White Only”, “Red Only” or “No Sweet” membership, pick - up or ship , in - state and out, AND w e hold your wines for up to six months.
• Save 15% on all wine, food, gift purchases + facility rentals , regardless of quantity purchased every visit.
• Visit our tasting room as often as you like for 4 c omplimentary Reserve Tasting s ! • Attend both our Hottest Cool Jazz Festival (spring) and Norton Wine and Bluegrass Festival (fall) for FREE.
• Attend our monthly VIP Pick - Up P arties catered ONLY to our club members for complimentary food pairings for your wines - of - the - month and “VIP Tastings” that include wines that are not regularly tasted.
• Receive 6 complimentary Reserve Tastings with a birthday cake every year for your birthday!
• Attend our annual VIP Club Appreciation Party expressly held for all active members for free , which includes wine - by - the - glass, catered food and live music ! (Must be active for 3 months and/or purchase the previous 3 VIP Club shipments) 
• Have priority over new vintages before they are released to the general public.
• Receive special VIP Club - only wine selections crafted from our finest lots, specifically for you.
• Enjoy exclusive recipes and tasting notes each month catered to compliment your wines - of - the - month. 
• Sign up your friends or family, and if they join, receive a 25% discount on a future purchase.

Delaplane Cellars (Delaplane, VA) Wine Club As a club member you will have access to our members-only retreat where you will enjoy comfortable seating in an adult-only, serene atmosphere.  Seasonal releases are accompanied by tasting notes from the owner and winemaker, Jim Dolphin, along with food pairing recipes, many of which come from the kitchens of local chefs.

• Three bottle release each season
• Priority notice on all wine events, new releases, special offers and access to limited release, small lot and special reserve wines.
• Members-only Barrel Tastings
• Preferred pricing on library wines
• Complimentary periodic wine and food pairings with library or newly released wines.

Winemaker’s Dozen Club Membership Benefits:

• Four complimentary wine tastings per visit for club members in the tasting room.
• 20% discount on all wine bottle purchases
• 15% discount on merchandise in the tasting room
• 15% discount on all Local Light Fare in the tasting room
• Delaplane Cellars Winemaker’s Dozen Club membership cards 

Doukenie Winery (Hillsboro, VA) Heritage Club

• 15% off every bottle
• Flexibility: Select any of our wines, and change your selections at any time
• 20% off all wine after two full years of membership
• 30% discount per case of our Blue Cap Collection
• Automatically scheduled shipments (to your home or office) or pick ups at the Winery
• Complimentary tastings for 2 on one membership in our Tasting Room
• Private Tastings for 4 on one membership in our exclusive Heritage Club Room. Reservations required
• Invitation Only Status to our Wine Club exclusive events
• Receive newsletters with interesting wine facts from our winemaker, and updates about the club
• One free ticket to each of our annual Spring and Fall Music Concerts
• Private dinners for Heritage Club members only

Elk Run Vineyards (Mt. Airy, MD)

• Two (2) complimentary tastings of 6 wines for each visit to the winery
• Exclusive opportunity to receive new wines before release to the public
• Quarterly newsletter updating you on new wines, pairing recipes, and happenings at Elk Run
• Six wines, 10% discount.
• Second six each year 15% discount.
• Continue to buy six bottles each year and you  will continue to get 15% discount.
• Two (2) complementary tastings of 6 wines at each visit to the Winery.

Gadino Cellars (Washington VA)

• Two Gadino Cellars wines every three months at discounted prices (one red and one white). 
• Reserve wines available only to club members. 
• Includes club discounts of 10% off 11 bottles or less and 20% off 12 or more for your wine purchases when visiting the winery.

Glen Manor Vineyards (Front Royal, VA)

• Membership is automatic with the purchase of 12 bottles or more and lasts for 12 months from the date of purchase. Each time an additional case, 12 bottles, are purchased your membership is again extended for 12 months. 
• Complimentary tasting room wine tastings for club members and their guests, up to a party limit of six. 
• Exclusive invitation to all Glen Manor wine events such as our Spring Barrel Tasting and comparative tastings in our cellar. 
• Early notice on wine releases and notification when wines are close to selling out. 
• An allocation of each of their wines for club members purchase only.
• Certain limited production wines allocated exclusively to club members. 
• Early notification of all offsite Glen Manor events, such as vintner dinners, seminars or other tasting venues.

Hillsborough Vineyards (Purcellville, VA) Frequent Winer Club

• 20% discount off all of our wines including limited and reserve releases. 
•  Free bottle of wine for every person you refer that joins the Frequent Winer family. 
• Complimentary tastings in our Tasting Room
• Frequent Winers and one guest also receive free admittance to one of the scheduled Barrel Tasting events, held by our winemaker Kerem Baki.

Mediterranean Cellars (Warrenton, VA) Winemaker's Selection

• Discounts: 10% discount on all purchases; 15% discount for 1-3 cases; 20% for 4 or more cases
  
• Quarterly shipments of three bottles of the winemaker’s selection. As a member, you can elect to pick up the wine at the winery, or have it shipped to you.
• Complimentary tastings; free wine tastings for the member and one guest.
• Sneak previews and tastings of our new releases before they become available to the general public.
• Special offerings throughout the year.
• Recipes to accompany our wines, featured with each quarterly selection.

North Gate Vineyards (Purcellville, VA)

• No signup fee. 
• 3 bottles every quarter, winemakers' choice, but you can switch out. 15% off that allotment. 
• Pickup parties with extra tastings, barrel tastings, food, winemaker presentation. 
• Any other time: 2 free tastings per visit, one group of 4 free tastings per quarter, 10% off bottles, 15% of 6 packs, 20% off cases. 
• We're beginning to off after hours club only events, and have made several wines (with more to come) for members only. 
• Members get discounted rentals.

Old Westminster Winery (Westminster, MD) Cru Club

• The Cru is based on quarterly wine allocations thoughtfully selected by our winemaker and an annually-crafted custom blend, Cru Cuvée. On pick-up day, enjoy a gratis glass of your favorite wine, taste new releases and connect with other members. It’s free to join and you can modify your wine allotment via the member’s area of our website. No strings attached! 
• Complimentary tastings at the winery
• Annual vintage release party invitations
• Special pricing on wine purchases

Paradise Springs Winery (Clifton, VA) 

• Complimentary tastings for you and up to 3 guests (4 people total)
• 15% off all wine purchases (20% off cases)
• 20% discount on current wine selections for first 30 days (25% on cases)
• Quarterly pick-up events for members only 
• Priority reservations for wine dinners and in-house events 
• Host your private event and apply your membership discounts on wine
• All members receive a PSW Black Card
• Winemaker selected wines including occasional selections crafted exclusively for the club
• Welcome package to include PSW frameable print.

Pearmund Cellars (Broad Run VA) Old Vine Club

• 30% off your purchase of 3+ bottles of wine at registration
• Pick-Up Parties for Wine Club Members only, featuring a free tasting of selected wines and cheese platter
• Voucher for 2 complimentary tastings with each wine club pick-up or shipment
• All club wine packaged in exclusive 4-bottle Pearmund Cellars wine totes
• Access to unique wines exclusively for Wine Club Members
• Members-only newsletter with tasting notes
• Bring a friend with you to enjoy Pearmund Cellars wine… If your friend joins our Wine Club, you receive 30% off that day’s purchase of 3+ bottles
• $60 + tax for each 3-bottle package, 4 times per year. Pick-up or shipment ($5/bottle)

RDV Vineyards (Delaplane, VA)  RdV Ambassadorship

• Harvest Release Party 
• Invites to wine dinners throughout the year.
• Participate in harvest and join the team for Friday lunches in the fall.
• Invitations to RdV hosted events at the winery exclusive to only Ambassadors.
• Exclusive ability to host private tastings in the Wine Library, Lab or Private Tasting Salon
• The first Friday of every month we host a casual cocktail party with various themes.
• Access to our second wine, Friends & Family, which is reserved just for Ambassadors.
• Joining is as simple as buying some wine. Ambassadorships come in two forms:
• 6 Pack – two bottles of Lost Mountain, four bottles of Rendezvous (Plus tax, shipping and handling)

Rocklands Farm (Poolesville, MD)

• 3-6-12 bottle plans
• 10% Discount on All Wine Purchases
• Special Discounts on Quarterly Club Purchases
• 50% Off Wine Tastings (up to 6 Guests) Each Time You Visit
• Exclusive Annual Barrel Tasting and Tour Invitations
• Provision of Tasting Notes of Each Quarterly Selection, Plus Rocklands Garden Recipes to Compliment Each Wine and Its Pairings
• Exclusive Access to First Releases

Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard (Dickerson, MD) Bacchus Club

• 3 bottles of wine/quarter Winemaker's selection (shipments will always be a $65 or greater retail value)
• 10% off all retail purchases in the tasting room
• Half price tastings for you and your guests
• Two free tickets to our Stomp Festival
• Invitation to quarterly pick up parties
• Invitation to barrel tastings, reservations required, space is limited
• Exclusive "Bacchus Club Only" wines
• Bacchus Club Only express register on select busy days and festivals
• Delivery within Maryland available for an additional $15

Sunset Hills Vineyard & Winery (Purcellville, VA) Cellar Club

• Two bottles of wine bi-monthly and receive discounts on food and wine purchases, event tickets and merchandise.   
• Access to exclusive wine selections. 
• Special access in the upper loft and deck areas of our winery and the privilege to bring groups with advanced reservation.  

Tarara Vineyard & Winery (Leesburg, VA)  Artisan Red, Artisan White, Artisan Single Vineyard or Artisan Winemaker's Select

• Four times a year, a trio (3) of Tarara’s wines selected by Jordan Harris, Tarara’s winemaker, including pre-release and Vine Club exclusives.
• Convenience of having Tarara wine on hand for impromptu occasions.
• 15% discounts on wine purchases at the Winery and online
• Quarterly Vine Club newsletters detailing your wines, pairing recipes and updating you on the happenings at Tarara
• Invitations to exclusive members-only events, including package “pickup parties”.
• Six (6) complimentary wine tastings each quarter (or 3 tastings for 2)
• Priority notice for new releases and special offers
• 50% Savings on Premier Tasting Experience
• A Vine Club manager dedicated to assisting you with selections and inquiries

Veramar Vineyard (Berryville, VA) Estate Wine Club

• 2-Bottle Shipments pre-selected and automatically shipped six times a year.
• Cost of each shipment is $38 plus tax and shipping.
• No tasting fees for you and a guest.
• 15% Discount on tasting room merchandise.
• 15% Discount on wine bottle purchases.
• 15% Discount on cases of wine.
• 15% Discount to Veramar events(excludes weddings, rehearsals, and corporate events).
• Notification of early and limited releases, recipes, and access to library wine stock purchasing.
• Invitations to exclusive programs and events created especially for Estate Club members.

Vineyards At Dodon (Davidsonville, MD)

• Pre-release access to limited production wines.
• Allocations of two 6 bottle releases per year.
• 10% per bottle discount on all purchases.
• Invitations for two people to wine dinners & events.
• Tasting and social hour for members on designated allocation pickup days.
• Free delivery within 20 miles.
• Access to our tasting room for private group tastings followed by a social hour.

 Willowcroft Farm Vineyards (Leesburg VA) “Press”tige Club

• Complimentary tasting for 2 or a free glass of wine upon each visit to the tasting room
• Bi-monthly shipments of two Willowcroft wines hand-selected by our winemaker, Lew Parker
• Two planned evening socials elusively for club members.

Winery at La Grange (Haymarket, VA) Benoni's Reserve Wine Club

• 10% off 1-5 bottles or 20% off 6+ bottles purchased at the Manor House
• 10% off all merchandise in the Manor House Gift Shop
• 10% off facility rental prices for private events
• One Complimentary tasting card for two per delivery
• A bottle of our Reserve Sparkling Wine when you join
• 50% off facility rental price for your birthday at the winery

The Winery at Olney (Olney, MD) VINO1800 Wine Club

• 10% all batches of wine (During our annual Christmas in July sale, members will receive 25% off all batches whereas non-members will only receive 15% off)
• 15% off all cases of wine
• 5% off all individual bottles & glasses of wine
• Two complimentary bottles of wine each month selected by our Wine Maker.  One of the two bottles will be an exclusive varietal of wine not presented to other customers.  These wines will be available for pick-up on a designated day each month.  NOTE: If you prefer to have the wines shipped to you within the state of Maryland, there will be an additional shipping fee of $12.95 added to your monthly membership fee. 
• Two complimentary custom label designs annually (a $50 value)
• A members-only quarterly e-publication highlighting exclusive member specials and information about The Winery
• Invitations to two semi-annual VINO1800 Wine Club events, featuring wine flights, hors d’oeuvres, and entertainment. 

A Quick Visit to Knob Hall Winery in Maryland Wine Country

While traveling west on Route 70, a little past Hagerstown, I stopped for gas at the Clear Spring exist and checked theCompass to check my surroundings. And to my benefit Knob Hall Winery was only a short drive away. I first crossed paths with the winery at the the 2013 DrinkLocalWine.com Conference, where I sampled their Chambourcin and sat at a dinner table with owners Richard and Mary Beth Seibert, with Mary Beth being one of only a few female winemakers in the state. The property has been in the Seibert family for more than 200 years when Jacob Seibert (an immigrant from Germany) settled there. The stone section of the house was built in the early 1800’s and the barn which houses the tasting room in 1865. They sure built solid buildings back then. 

In order to keep the farm self sustaining (profitable), they turned to grapes - not too surprising since Richard was an original partner in the old Wild Goose Brewery, one of my favorite escapes to the eastern shore. The estate backs to the eastern slope of Fairview Mountain and contains parcels of red clay and limestone.  It even resides in Maryland's most western AVA - the Cumberland Valley AVA.  The Seibert's planted mostly vinifera Albarino, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Viognier, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, and Petite Verdot; but also a few hybrids: Traminette, Vidal Blanc, Viognier, and Chambourcin.

The winery produces a wide portfolio, from dry to sweet, all to satisfy local tastes. On my visit, I concentrated on the dry side and was particularly fond of the reds and rosés. Their Jealous Mistress is an  80-20 blend of Chambourcin and Merlot with a spicy berry aroma, followed by berry flavors and a slightly spicy finish. The N39 is an unoaked Chambourcin blended with oaked Cabernet Franc and Merlot. This is an easy drinking wine - probably serve slightly chilled. And then there's their single varietal Chambourcin, which was a decent amount of spice throughout. As for the rosés, there are two dry versions to sample. The Chambourcin Rosé is light and tart with nice acids. My favorite, however, was the Cabernet Franc Rosé - tart juicy with a creamy strawberry texture. This wine melts in your mouth.

Beer & Cider along the Torrey C. Brown Trail: Monkton to New Freedom

Ever since the 2013 Drink Local Wine Conference, held that year in Baltimore (Maryland Wine country), I've been trying to visit Millstone Cellars, a unique cidery located north of the city in Monkton. This weekend presented an opportunity and after a little research I discovered that Monkton is a stop on the Torrey C. Brown Trail, a converted rail line which runs adjacent to the Gunpowder River into Pennsylvania. Once in the Keystone state, the York County Heritage Trail commences giving cyclists 41 miles of trail -- 20 in Maryland, 21 in Pennsylvania.  Time for a bike ride.

Using theCompass, I saw that three Maryland wineries were near Monkton (Royal Rabbit Vineyards, Woodhall Wine Cellars, Basignani Winery) but not close enough to the trail for an easy side trip. I did find, however; a Pennsylvania brewery, Gunpowder Falls Brewing, located in New Freedom - the source of the Gunpowder River. Plus New Freedom is home to The William H. Simpson #17, a replica of the Civil War steam locomotive that carried Abraham Lincoln to deliver the Gettysburg Address, which now rides along the York County Heritage Trail to York.

Monkton is located just after mile marker 7 on the Torrey C. Brown Trail, so I parked alongside the tubers and started pedaling north. The trail is an easy ride, the steepest sections are only 2-3% grade. There are restrooms every few miles, but the general store in Monkton is the only food shop until New Freedom. The trail itself is packed gravel and dirt; my hybrid had no problems and I did see several road bikes throughout the day.  The river flowing nearby is soothing and provides a nice landscape for the ride. When reaching New Freedom, I stopped to peek at The William H. Simpson #17 and get a quick snack at the Trail Museum and cafe.  Finding the brewery became a bit of a challenge since its 3.5 miles off the trail. Start by going east on W. Main Street and then turn left on N. Constitution and cycle along this rode for 1.7 miles. Turn left on S. Main Street then a right on E. Tolna Road. Enjoy the mile downhill ride, because you will need to pedal up on your return trip. Just before a mile, turn right on Elm and the brewery entrance is on the backside of the warehouse.

Gunpowder Falls Brewing is an American-German craft brewery operated by brewery Martin Virga.  Virga received his brewer training in Germany then returned to the states to help start the  Capitol City Brewing Company in Washington D.C. and later the Ellicott Mills Brewing Company.  He started Gunpowder Fallsto focus exclusively on traditional German style lagers. Each batch is brewed according to the Reinheitsgebot (German Purity Law of 1516) which dictates that only water, malt and hops may be used in brewing beer. The role of yeast came centuries later.


When I arrived at Gunpowder Falls Brewing, they were serving three beers, a Pilsner, Dunkel, and Helles.  I started with the later, clean and refreshing - a very nice representation of a standard lager. Over bratwurst, I slowed down with a Dunkel, a sweeter beer with plenty of malt flavor.  Knowing I had a hill to climb, I just sampled the Pils, noting the hoppier character of this beer.  These are solid beers and glad to see classic lagers featured.

The return ride back to Monkton was quite easy - once I made it back to the York trail. With the decreasing grade, the return trip was much faster.  Millstone Cellars is not far from the trail (.4 miles), take a left on Millstone Road - a couple short hills - then take a right to remain on Millstone. You can't miss the refurbished Monkton Mill, an old, 1840′s circa grist mill that Millstone calls home. The cidery is owned and operated by the father-son team of Curt and Kyle Sherrer. You won't find traditional ciders and meads here; instead the two focus on artisan versions of each. Let's start with my favorite, Hopvine ($16), a cask cider (York Imperial) aged with Maryland grown Cascade hops and blended with a little raw honey. The Farmgate ($16) is about as close a traditional cider you will find - distinct that it is unfiltered Jonathon, Stayman Winesap, and Smokehouse apples fermented and aged in American oak barrels. Dry, flavorful, and tart. The latest find is Thistle ($20), a session sour mead from wild and belgian ale yeast and aged in oak for almost a year. Love the acids and unique sour flavor.  This mead is another representation how Millstone is pushing the boundaries of traditional recipes adding interesting aspects from other brewing techniques.  Besides these three there are several other ciders and meads available - like the Sidra Americana, Rhuberry, Peche Cyser, Spruced, Gingeroot, and several more concoctions aging in the mill.  Cheers to that.


Total mileage: 35.
Photos: Facebook