Linganore Winecellars in Mount Airy, Maryland, is set to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026, marking a significant milestone in the state’s winemaking history. Founded in 1976 by Jack and Lucille Aellen, the winery has evolved from a family farm into one of the East Coast’s most recognized viticulture destinations. To commemorate this momentous occasion, Linganore Winecellars will host a series of special events and promotions throughout the year.
Reflecting on five decades of winemaking, Eric Aellen, the second-generation co-owner and vineyard manager, shared his personal connection to the winery. “Celebrating the 50th anniversary of our winery is deeply personal for me. I grew up on this farm, learning its rhythms, values, and stories alongside my family,” he noted. He added that the involvement of younger family members, including his son and niece, in continuing the winery’s legacy brings him immense pride.
Co-owner and executive winemaker Anthony Aellen emphasized the responsibility that comes with managing the land. “You get to be the caretaker of the land for the time you are here, and with that, you are given the responsibility to leave the land in better condition when it becomes someone else’s,” he stated. This philosophy reflects the Aellen family’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and community engagement.
Special Events and Promotions for the Anniversary
To kick off the anniversary celebrations, Linganore Winecellars has announced several exciting offerings for 2026. On the fourth Monday of every month, guests can enjoy a nostalgic return to the winery’s roots with $2 bar tastings. Participants will have the opportunity to sample five signature wines for just $2, a price reminiscent of the winery’s early days.
Additionally, the winery will introduce Free Tour Fridays starting in February, with tours available at 14:00 and 16:00. These complimentary tours will provide guests with insights into the winery’s rich history and winemaking processes. Following the tour, visitors are encouraged to visit the tasting room to purchase a bar tasting or a bottle of their favorite wine. The tours are open to individuals aged 21 and over, and pre-reservation is recommended due to limited availability.
Another highlight of the anniversary will be a series of intimate storytelling sessions titled Around the Family Table. These bi-monthly events, hosted by Anthony and Eric Aellen, will feature behind-the-scenes anecdotes, interesting facts about the winery, and personal stories from their family’s winemaking journey, all to be enjoyed with a glass of wine in hand.
Looking Ahead: Festivals and Future Events
As the year progresses, Linganore Winecellars plans to host a variety of legendary festivals and special events, incorporating exclusive anniversary themes and limited edition wine releases. This commitment to celebrating its heritage while looking forward to the future underscores the winery’s importance in Maryland’s agricultural landscape.
To keep updated on the anniversary events and new offerings, the winery invites fans to join their email list at https://www.linganorewines.com/email-signup/.
Linganore Winecellars has been a family-owned and operated winery since its inception, with a focus on producing high-quality wines in a welcoming environment. With over 70 acres of vineyards, the winery offers a diverse portfolio that includes classic vinifera and unique fruit wines. Linganore Winecellars has solidified its position as a cornerstone of Maryland’s rich agricultural and winemaking heritage, and the upcoming anniversary will serve as a celebration of its legacy and future aspirations.
