The hills are alive with—well, lots of vines. Maryland now boasts 33 wineries that produce more than 240 different wines, according to the Maryland Wineries Association. And last year, more than 225,000 gallons of local vino were flowing through the state. It's enough to make you want to uncork another bottle.
But why just drink wine when you can also head out to the fields at harvest time to pick grapes and learn about the process? Basignani Winery (15722 Falls Road, Sparks-Glencoe) invites visitors to its 11-acre spread on Saturdays Sept. 6, 13, and 27, and Oct. 4 and 11 to pluck fruit and enjoy lunch and a wine tasting—for free. "It's fun, and it's getting the picking done," says Griffen Taylor, the winery's marketing director. "Wine is romantic. People like to be part of it." Volunteers also can watch the crushing process. Reservations are necessary. Call 410-472-0703.
