Colonial Wine in Maryland
Wine has a long history in Maryland, dating back to the earliest European settlers in the region. The first recorded instance of wine production in Maryland occurred in 1648, when Cecil Calvert, the second Lord Baltimore and founder of the Maryland colony, established a vineyard at St. Mary's City. For reference this was 119 years before the Mason-Dixon line was established as a territorial border between Maryland and Pennsylvania. 1648 was also 128 years before the Declaration of Independence was signed.
The climate and soil conditions in Maryland were found to be suitable for grape cultivation, leading to the establishment of numerous vineyards throughout the colonial period. St Mary’s County is down on the southern plane of Maryland. The sandy soil was good for not just local varieties of grapes but ancestral vinifera of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Currently you can find a few solid wineries in St Mary’s such as Port of Leonardtown. However, it was not until the 19th century that commercial winemaking began to gain traction in the state.
In 1805, John Adlum, known as "the father of American viticulture," successfully produced a mass quantity (for the time) of wine from native grapes grown near Havre de Grace. Havre de Grace is at the top of Harford County where the Susquehanna meets the Chesapeake Bay. His efforts helped pave the way for future winemakers in Maryland.
The modern era of winemaking in Maryland began to take shape in the late 20th century with an increasing focus on quality and experimentation with different grape varieties. The establishment of several AVAs (American Viticultural Areas) within the state further bolstered its reputation as a viable wine-producing region.
Today, Maryland is home to over 100 wineries and has become known for producing high-quality wines made from both traditional European varietals and native American grapes. The industry continues to grow and thrive as winemakers explore new techniques and expand their offerings. Overall, while wine production may have had humble beginnings in early colonial times, its journey through history has led it to become an integral part of Maryland's agricultural landscape and cultural heritage.
