The number of Maryland vineyards and wineries continues to grow in 2014. Only 30 wineries existed 20 years ago; and today there over 60 wineries throughout the state with more planned to open in 2015. The growth in the number of wineries has resulted in a boom in wine production resulting in an increased interest in Maryland wine. Maryland has experienced an 11% increase in production over the past two years. Maryland wine is popular!

Several changes to Maryland’s beverage laws can be attributed to the growth and popularity. For example, allowing wineries to ship wine purchases to homes and businesses encourages Marylanders and visitors to try wine beyond the vineyards’ property. For example, a wine subscription is now something that allows customers to order cases of wine from the internet to be delivered to your home.

“When you tell people about the number of wineries and the locations, their eyes light up and they become immediately interested. People want to know how much a case of wine cost anyone interested so they can get one themselves, after all. They want to learn more,” Ms. Leslie Frelow, owner and Managing Director of Vino 301 Wine Concierge, states. I started Vino 301 Wine Concierge because Maryland produces great wine. Vino 301 thinks it is important to support our local businesses. I wanted to share with others, in a safe environment, what I enjoy about Maryland wine.

Vino 301 Wine Concierge is based in Bowie, MD. The company provides guided group wine tours to many of Maryland’s vineyards and wineries. They provide transportation to and from wineries and guests are able to enjoy wine tasting and tours of the vineyard or facilities. Guests receive a collectible wine and light snack during the tour. Tour guests spend a relaxing afternoon experiencing Maryland’s wine culture. Often, the tour guests can meet the winemakers during the tours. It is an invaluable experience, to hear about the wine process from the actual winemaker.

Vino 301 Wine Concierge’s first tour was in April 2013. Since that time, they have given tours to over 400 people in its first year. The wine tours going to Baltimore-Harford counties, southern Maryland, and Frederick and Carroll Counties wineries. Vino 301 wine tours are ideal for friends to get together and enjoy wine. Many people book group tours for birthdays, corporate outings, or even bachorelette parties.

“Our tour guide Wayne for all that they did last weekend for my sister’s birthday wine tour. It was an amazing experience.” KC Cyularz

Over the past year we have garnered wonderful partnerships with the Maryland Wine Association, Baltimore Tourism Association and Visit Baltimore. In 2015 we hope to continue to spread our love of Wine and Tourism with many more in the Baltimore area.

In the first of many events ,VINO 301 will partner with Warehouse 518 (http://www.warehouse518.com) to host a Wine Tasting Class. The wine tasting class will include an option for brunch or dinner from Warehouse 518’s fabulous menu. (http://bit.ly/1xu6esh)

Additionally, Vino 301 has become the premier sponsor for The Maryland Wine Associations 2015 Wine Passport Experience held in February. Here guests will have the option to participate in one of six different guided tours (http://bit.ly/1HcwwDB).

I am excited about what we have accomplished in our first two years. We look forward to offering more tours and sharing Maryland Wine’s with many more in 2015.

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