Visit Maryland's Wineries

[Sharon (Premo)]

Spring is here, and it's time to venture outside, enjoy the warm weather and beautiful scenery, and visit one of Maryland's 21 wineries. This April, the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) is encouraging consumers to tour one of the state's seven wine regions and sample the superior vintages offered by our local wineries.

"Grape growing and wine making facilities are expanding at an exciting rate across the Maryland and lend themselves readily to visitors," said Agriculture Secretary Roger Richardson. "Touring a winery or a vineyard in the countryside, tasting some of Maryland's fine wines, and enjoying the company of friends is a wonderful way to spend a springtime day."

Maryland currently has 31 licensed wineries, 10 of which will be opening later this year. Maryland's wineries produce over 240 different wines which are sold at the wineries and at more than 600 retailers and 100 restaurants throughout the state. Last year, Maryland wineries sold 228,657 gallons (approximately 1,154,056 bottles) of wine - a 19.2 percent increase over 2006.

Not only is visiting a Maryland winery a great way to spend an afternoon, but it's also a fun way to earn a chance at a weekend getaway. This April, the Maryland Wineries Association is supporting the MDA's initiative by donating $300 towards a weekend stay at any Maryland bed & breakfast.

In order to qualify for the getaway, consumers must visit five or more Maryland wineries during the month of April and get a special ticket signed by each winery visited. To find out more information about Maryland wineries, the promotion and to download the ticket, visit Maryland's Best.

[jazz lady (Premo)]

I'll drink to that! *hic*