Frederick Wine Trail Guide | 11 Wineries & Meaderies 2026
11+ Wineries & Meaderies Across Frederick County
Cluster your visits: the East group (Elk Run, Loew, Black Ankle) are minutes apart, making them a perfect afternoon circuit. Pair with Springfield Manor in Thurmont for a full day.
Frederick County's wine trail winds through rolling farmland, mountain foothills, and even a walkable downtown setting. From Tuscan-inspired estates to intimate hillside meaderies, the region offers an accessible wine country experience within an hour of Washington D.C. and Baltimore.
Downtown Frederick
Start your trail without leaving the historic district. Simple Theory sits right on Market Street, making it a natural first stop before heading out to the countryside.
Simple Theory Wine Co.
Urban WineryEast Wine Country
Three highly regarded wineries cluster within a short drive east of Frederick. Plan a half-day to visit all three — they're close enough to loop without backtracking.
Elk Run Vineyards & Winery
Estate WineryLoew Vineyards
Estate WineryBlack Ankle Vineyards
Premium WinerySouth Frederick Valley
The largest cluster on the trail spans the rolling hills south of Frederick. Linganore is Maryland's largest winery; the smaller estates offer more intimate tasting experiences.
Linganore Winecellars
Maryland's Largest WineryHidden Hills Farm & Vineyard
Farm WineryOrchid Cellar Meadery & Winery
MeaderyCelebration Cellars Winery
Boutique WineryCatoctin Mountain Estates
The northernmost wineries sit at the foot of the Catoctin Mountains near Thurmont. Springfield Manor combines wine, beer, and spirits on one historic estate — making it a destination in itself.
Springfield Manor Winery, Brewery & Distillery
Multi-Craft EstateLinks Bridge Vineyards
Estate WineryRelated Experiences
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need reservations to visit Frederick wineries? ▾
Most wineries welcome walk-ins on weekends, but some smaller estates like Celebration Cellars are by appointment only. Springfield Manor and Black Ankle often get busy—calling ahead for weekend visits is smart.
Can I do a self-guided wine trail tour? ▾
Yes. Many visitors start downtown at Simple Theory, then drive east to the Elk Run/Loew/Black Ankle cluster (all within a few miles of each other), then head south to Linganore or Hidden Hills. Allow a full day and designate a driver.
When is the best time of year to visit Frederick wineries? ▾
Late summer through fall (August–October) is peak season when harvests and release events happen. Spring weekends are also lovely as vines start growing. Many wineries have indoor tasting rooms open year-round.
Is the Frederick Wine Trail family-friendly? ▾
Several vineyards welcome families with children. Springfield Manor, Linganore, and Hidden Hills all have outdoor space. Note that children cannot be served alcohol, but most wineries offer non-alcoholic options and outdoor areas for kids to enjoy.
Explore the Full Craft Beverage Trail
Combine wine with Frederick's award-winning breweries and distilleries on the official Craft Beverage Trail.
View Craft Beverage Trail