The festival was great—hot—but great. It was about 82 degrees and humid with a light breeze. The 2009 Great Grapes! wine, arts & food festival at Oregon Ridge Park in Cockeysville took place June 13-14 from 12:00-6:00pm. At the door, each entrant received a free six-month subscription to Baltimore Magazine with their tasting glass. Once inside, the park was filled with vendors of all types- 100.7 The Bay, jewelry stands, food vendors, organic farm products, local cheeses, and a wide variety of product and service providers. There was also live music playing on the main stage throughout the event.
Over 20 wineries were showcased including:
200 wines were represented with a few standing out as my favorites. My number one favorite was from Terrapin Station Winery— 2008 Traminette Reserve. The exhibitor pouring for me said it is by far their most popular wine—which is sold in a box. They describe it as their signature white wine, treated with special care including an extended cold soak prior to fermentation to extract more of the Traminette grape’s unique aroma and flavors. With its Gerwurztraminer parentage, the grape yields a spicy, crisp wine that goes exceptionally well with Asian foods, or all by itself.
Another wine I want to mention is the Summer Swan Blanc from the Far Eastern Shore Winery. The wine maker describes it as delicious peach and apricot flavors that are blended with a light grape wine for a thirst-quenching delight. This creates a subtle dryness and perfectly balanced acidity with hints of its own citrus and fruit flavors. Enjoy with melons, light cheese and crackers.
One winery really surprised me with their selection: Orchid Cellar. All of their wines are unique variations of the classic meade creation. They all have a strong honey taste to them and are extremely sweet.
It was a perfect day for a festival. I really enjoyed getting to know the wineries that I have not been to before and visiting the old stand-bys. I look forward to the event next year!
For more info: http://www.uncorkthefun.com/cockeysville-maryland/site-info
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