Ok...this one is right up our alley...
The Upper Chesapeake offers a myriad of amazing wineries, most within 20-30 minute drives, some right up the hill. We've organized some of our favorites in convenient loops. Here are some comments and check out the loop maps below. CLICK ON THE VINEYARD NAME FOR DETAILS AND WEBSITES - and don't worry about some of the drive times, these are relaxing drives through some amazing rolling hills and countryside. Winery Loops are listed below!
IN HAVRE DE GRACE:
The Vineyard Wine Bar Located right here in Havre de Grace and walkable from the Vandiver, this amazing place is not a winery, but recognized as one of the best wine bars and wine lists in the Upper Chesapeake / Baltimore Area. Great food and a fantastic, well educated staff in a comfortable but swanky environment.
Mt. Felix: This is a wonderful winery located just up the hill in Havre de Grace. Pete and Mary Ianella are fantastic hosts. Unfortunately, they are closed for a bit due to a fire in the barn. We'll let you know when they are re-opened.
THE UPPER CHESAPEAKE WINERY LOOP
Chateau Bu-De (40 min): Terrific wines, awesome service and a beautiful setting overlooking the Bohemia River. Award-wining dry reds and whites, with a eye on some non-traditional grapes - something for everyone. We've hosted a few wine dinners with Chateau and have never been disappointed.
Broken Spoke (5 min from Chateau Bu-De): We haven't had a chance to get out to Broken Spoke but have heard some great things. A little skew to sweeter wine
Crow Vineyard and Winery: (15 min from Bu-De): Some of our favorite wines, especially their Roses and Reds, but don't rule out their Chards and other whites. Award-winning wine maker on a working farm that supplies some fantastic beef cuts. Great tasting spaces in a beautiful, rustic setting - with knowledgeable, fun staff. One of our faves!
THE UPPER CHESAPEAKE WATERSHED LOOP
WAYVINE Winery & Vineyard (30 min from Vandiver): This is a simply charming winery with wonderful customers service and a true commitment to wine-making. Stunning setting in what feels like the French countryside (the above picture is from Wayvine!). A wonderful array of wines from sweet to big boy roses and reds. Check their website for live music and other events!
Fiore Winiery & Distillery (38 min from Wavine): Mr. and Mrs. Fiore are the founders of quality wine in this region. Some of the oldest plantings (pushing 25-30 years in some parts) are creating terrific reds in a very traditional old-word Italian style. The Sangiovese is award-wining as well as many other. The setting makes you feel like you are sitting in the Italian Country-side Relatively new to the operation is their Distfillery putting out some awesome Bourbons and Flavored Moonshines!
Boordy (40 min from Fiore): A beautiful setting with rustic barns in rolling hills with a wonderfully diverse selection of award-winning wines. For you white wines - you need to try the Viognier.
If you are headed to Rock Hall or Chestertown for the day from Havre de Grace, be sure to check on Crow Vineyards on your way there or back!
For a great day trip from Havre de Grace, drive to Chesapeake City (about 30 minutes away) and have lunch on the water at the Bayard House or Chesapeake Inn and Marina. Hit Chateau Bu-De for an afternoon wine tasting (just 10 minutes down 213) on the banks of the Bohemia River. From there, head back towards Havre de Grace and have dinner in Northeast, MD at Steak N Main. We are addicted to their Philly Pork Sandwiches. If you like Fried Chicken, the Wellwood (just a little closer to Havre de Grace in Charlestown, MD) has a great version. They also have some of the best steamed crabs around.
Hey - just a HUGE fyi - those drive times are for the ENTIRE loop if you choose to do it (out and back!)