March is Maryland Wine Month, and there is no better way to explore the rural side of Montgomery County than an unhurried afternoon sampling award-winning wines. You don’t have to go far to feel like you’re in wine country. Grab your favorite friends and take a MoCo wine tour of Tastemakers Trail spots in the Agricultural Reserve.
Stop 1: Windridge Vineyard
15700 Darnestown Road, Darnestown, MD 20874
Start your trip off at one of the most scenic spots in Montgomery County. Rolling views of Seneca Creek State Park and Sugarloaf Mountain make Windridge Vineyards perfectly serene, but it’s their premium estate-grown wines that truly elevate your experience. Live music, food trucks, and cozy fire pits make this the perfect spot to relax and stay for a while.
Stop 2: Rocklands Farm Winery
14531 Montevideo Road, Poolesville, MD 20837
By utilizing low-impact, biological processes within their 9.5-acre vineyard, Rocklands Farm Winery cultivates healthy vines and soil, resulting in high-quality fruit for their handcrafted, small-batch wines. Schedule a complimentary guided tour to see their practices in action and be sure to try their wine tasting, featuring a selection of six wines.
Stop 3: Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard
18125 Comus Road, Dickerson, MD 20842
Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard has been visited by wine enthusiasts since 2006. Their trained staff specializes in wine education. Whether on a weekend winery tour or enjoying a sampling in the tasting room, Sugarloaf Mountain Winery guides you through every step of their award-winning wines. Afterwards, order a glass of your favorite to accompany a snack from their à la carte menu and cozy up next to a firepit.
Stop 4: 61 Vineyard
28712 Kemptown Road, Damascus, MD 20872
The newest vineyard in Montgomery County, 61 Vineyard is a small, family-owned winery, featuring a tasting room, outdoor patio, and scenic views of Sugarloaf Mountain. Born out of a family hobby, four generations are now helping in the vineyard. Snacks like pre-made charcuterie plates, hummus, and olives are available, and you are welcome to bring your own food to pair with your wine.
Looking to tour the urban wineries and other local craft beverage makers? Check out the Tastemakers Trail, a self-guided craft beverage tour.
