Maryland has a fine culinary history and wine making is no exception. In fact, our foodways traditions are common themes in promoting the history and culture of Maryland, like Wine Trails, and yet another way you can support a local economy. So, today we will celebrate the art of wine-making by exploring Maryland’s local wineries and the historic properties from which they harvest!
BOORDY VINEYARDS
The Boordy name is synonymous with wine in Maryland, in fact Boordy Vineyards was Maryland’s first commercial winery in Baltimore City when it was established in 1945. But the first grapevine nursery was planted even earlier on the property in Riderwood, Maryland in 1930, during Prohibition.
The history of Boordy Vineyards’ founding is a fascinating story of smuggled grape vines from France, efforts that sparked the renaissance of American wine making, and financing through the father of James W. Rouse, visionary developer of Columbia, Maryland
Today, the winery is located inside a historic 19th century stone barn, which provides the perfect climate for the aging of wine. Feel free to visit Boordy Vineyards and experience the 71-year old historic Maryland winery and preserved stone barn throughout the year.
Maryland wines, along with local food and music and culture, can be found at events all summer long. Check for wine-related events from the trade group: Maryland Wineries Association. And on the Preservation Maryland statewide calendar of events.
SPRINGFIELD MANOR WINERY & DISTILLERY
Springfield Manor Winery & Distillery in Frederick County operated out of the ca. 1775 home built by James Johnson, one of the founders of the Catoctin Furnance. The Catoctin Furnace produced pig iron, an essential element for ammunition and construction throughout the region; that site is now recognized as Catoctin Furnace National Register Historic District. Recently in 2015, Preservation Maryland’s Heritage Fund grant program supported the stabilization of the Iron Master’s Home, a ruins of the former complex, so that it could again be explored by visitors.
The Johnson estate has been repurposed as a wedding venue and bed & breakfast, and the bank barn has been transformed into a winery, distillery, tasting room, and reception venue. Guests to Springfield Manor are treated to breathtaking views of the Catoctin Mountains, fields of lavender, and the first licensed distillery in Frederick.
ELK RUN VINEYARD AND WINERY
The Elk Run Vineyard and Winery occupies property in Mount Airy, Frederick County initially granted from the King of England to Lord Baltimore with the deed name “Cold Friday,” and the current winemaker’s home dates to 1756 – and a drawing of the brick home is featured on each bottle label. The owners of Elk Run have named their newest vineyard “Cold Friday” to honor their property’s legacy and offer tours and tastings of the historic property regularly.
Lead in image by Gingersnaps on Blogspot. This post was written by Rachel Rettaliata, one of Preservation Maryland’s Waxter Interns. Rachel’s work with us focuses on communications and advocacy. She is a Fulbright Scholar, and will be attending the historic preservation program at the University of Maryland this fall. Learn more about Rachel and our intern program here: presmd.org/waxter.