Running Hare Vineyard: A Guide to the Best Wines and Views in Virginia

Running Hare Vineyard is a premier winery located in Southern Maryland, just a short drive from Washington DC. Established in 2008, the vineyard has quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality wines that have won awards and medals both nationally and internationally. The vineyard's lush full-bodied reds and fruitful and crisp whites are a testament to the passion and dedication of the vineyard's owners and winemakers.

Visitors to Running Hare Vineyard are greeted with a little bit of Tuscany and Napa in Southern Maryland. The vineyard's picturesque surroundings, rolling vineyards, and romantic woodlands make it the perfect venue for weddings, receptions, and other special events. Guests are invited to bring a picnic lunch and make a day of it, enjoying live music on select weekends in the vineyard's outdoor tasting area. The vineyard also features a beer garden and a pizza oven with a varied menu, making it a great destination for wine lovers and foodies alike.

History of Running Hare Vineyard

Running Hare Vineyard is a family-owned winery located in Calvert County, Maryland. The vineyard is the result of over 45 years of love for wine, which started in the vineyards of Southern France. Mike Scarborough, the owner of Running Hare Vineyard, lived in France as a child, and his love for wine has been a life-long passion.

In 2000, Scarborough purchased a 300-acre private farm, which he intended to use for hunting. However, he soon realized that the sandy, dry soil was ideal for growing grapes. Scarborough decided to turn the farm into a vineyard, and Running Hare Vineyard was born.

The vineyard's name is inspired by the "running hare" in the vineyards of Southern France, which Scarborough saw as a child. The running hare is a symbol of the vineyard's commitment to producing high-quality wines that reflect the terroir of the region.

Since its founding, Running Hare Vineyard has become a popular destination for wine lovers and tourists alike. The vineyard is known for its unique vineyard setting, which is reminiscent of the gentle hills of France, the beauty of Tuscany, and the feel of Napa.

Today, Running Hare Vineyard is a thriving winery that produces a variety of award-winning wines. The vineyard's commitment to quality and sustainability has earned it a reputation as one of Maryland's premier wineries.

Wine Production

Grape Varieties

Running Hare Vineyard grows a variety of grapes on their estate, including Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Sangiovese. Each grape variety has unique characteristics that contribute to the flavor and aroma of the wine.

Harvesting Process

The grapes are harvested by hand in small batches to ensure the highest quality. This labor-intensive process allows the winemakers to carefully select the best grapes for each wine. The grapes are picked at their peak ripeness to ensure optimal flavor and sugar content.

Winemaking Techniques

Running Hare Vineyard uses a combination of traditional and modern winemaking techniques to produce their award-winning wines. The grapes are destemmed and crushed, and the juice is then fermented in stainless steel tanks. The winemakers closely monitor the fermentation process to ensure the perfect balance of alcohol and acidity.

Once fermentation is complete, the wine is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two years. This aging process imparts additional flavors and aromas to the wine, such as vanilla and spice. Running Hare Vineyard also uses a technique called micro-oxygenation, which involves adding small amounts of oxygen to the wine during the aging process. This technique helps to soften the tannins and create a smoother, more complex wine.

Overall, Running Hare Vineyard takes great care in every step of the winemaking process, from grape selection to aging. The result is a collection of high-quality wines that are sure to please even the most discerning palate.

Wine Selection

Running Hare Vineyard offers a wide selection of wines, from crisp whites to bold reds and unique specialty blends. Visitors can enjoy tastings in the outdoor tasting area while taking in the picturesque views of the vineyard.

White Wines

Running Hare Vineyard's white wines are known for their refreshing and crisp flavors. The Vidal Blanc is a popular choice with its notes of citrus and tropical fruit. The Chardonnay is another favorite, with a smooth finish and hints of vanilla and oak.

Red Wines

For those who prefer a bolder wine, Running Hare Vineyard's reds do not disappoint. The Malbec is a standout, imported from Argentina and aged in American oak barrels for a minimum of two years. The Sangiovese Reserve is another must-try, with its rich flavors of dark fruit and spice.

Specialty Wines

Running Hare Vineyard also offers a variety of unique specialty blends. The Ruby Rabbit is a sweet and fruity red blend, while the Rosé 2021 is a light and refreshing option with notes of strawberry and watermelon.

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Vineyard Tours

Visiting Running Hare Vineyard is a great way to immerse oneself in the world of wine. The vineyard offers two types of tours: Guided Tours and Tasting Room Experience. Both options are perfect for wine enthusiasts and novices alike.

Guided Tours

Guided tours at Running Hare Vineyard offer a unique opportunity to learn about the winemaking process. Visitors will be taken on a tour of the vineyard, where they will learn about the different grape varieties and the vineyard's history. They will also get to see the production facilities and learn about the winemaking process from start to finish. The tour ends with a tasting of some of Running Hare Vineyard's award-winning wines.

Guided tours are available by appointment only and are led by knowledgeable staff members who are passionate about wine. The cost of the tour includes the tasting and a souvenir glass.

Tasting Room Experience

The Tasting Room Experience at Running Hare Vineyard is perfect for those who want to sample a variety of wines without taking a tour. Visitors can choose from a selection of wine flights, which include a sampling of four different wines. The flights are designed to showcase the different grape varieties and winemaking techniques used at the vineyard.

In addition to the wine flights, visitors can also purchase wine by the glass or bottle. The Tasting Room is open daily, and visitors are encouraged to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery while sipping their wine.

Overall, Running Hare Vineyard offers a variety of options for visitors who want to learn about and enjoy wine. Whether you choose a Guided Tour or the Tasting Room Experience, you're sure to have a memorable visit.

Events and Gatherings

Running Hare Vineyard is a picturesque venue that offers a variety of events and gatherings. Whether it's a wedding, corporate event, or festival, Running Hare Vineyard is the perfect place to host your special occasion.

Weddings

Running Hare Vineyard is the ideal location for a dream wedding. The Tuscan-style villa and lush vineyards provide a stunning backdrop for any ceremony or reception. The venue offers several spaces for weddings, including the Tuscan Villa, the Tasting Room, and the Barrel Room. The Tuscan Villa is the most popular location for weddings and can accommodate up to 250 guests. The Tasting Room and Barrel Room are perfect for smaller, more intimate weddings.

The venue offers several wedding packages that include catering, bar service, and a wedding coordinator. The packages can be customized to fit any budget and style. The wedding coordinator will work with the couple to ensure that every detail is taken care of, from the ceremony to the reception.

Corporate Events

Running Hare Vineyard is also an excellent location for corporate events. The venue offers several spaces for meetings, conferences, and team building activities. The Tuscan Villa and Tasting Room are perfect for meetings and conferences, while the Barrel Room is ideal for team building activities.

The venue offers several packages for corporate events that include catering, bar service, and AV equipment. The packages can be customized to fit any budget and style. The event coordinator will work with the company to ensure that every detail is taken care of, from the setup to the cleanup.

Festivals

Running Hare Vineyard is also known for its festivals. The venue hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Spring Wine Festival, the Summer Concert Series, and the Fall Harvest Festival. The festivals feature live music, food vendors, and of course, wine.

The Spring Wine Festival is held in April and features over 25 Maryland wineries. The Summer Concert Series is held every Friday and Saturday night from June to September and features local bands and food trucks. The Fall Harvest Festival is held in October and features pumpkins, hayrides, and a grape stomping competition.

In conclusion, Running Hare Vineyard offers a variety of events and gatherings that are perfect for any occasion. With its stunning location, excellent service, and attention to detail, Running Hare Vineyard is the perfect place to host your special event.

Environmental Practices

Running Hare Vineyard is committed to sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices. They believe that taking care of the environment is essential to producing high-quality wine. Here are some of the ways that Running Hare Vineyard is working to reduce their environmental impact:

Solar Panels

Running Hare Vineyard has installed solar panels on their property. These panels generate electricity, which is used to power the winery and tasting room. By using solar energy, Running Hare Vineyard is reducing their dependence on fossil fuels and lowering their carbon footprint.

Water Conservation

Water is a precious resource, and Running Hare Vineyard recognizes the importance of conserving it. They use drip irrigation systems to water their vines, which reduces water waste. Additionally, they have installed rain barrels to collect rainwater, which is then used to water their gardens.

Organic Farming

Running Hare Vineyard is committed to using organic farming practices. They do not use synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, which can be harmful to the environment. Instead, they use natural methods to control pests and promote soil health. By using organic farming practices, Running Hare Vineyard is protecting the environment and producing healthier grapes.

Recycling

Running Hare Vineyard is committed to recycling. They recycle glass, plastic, and cardboard, and they compost their grape pomace and other organic waste. By recycling and composting, Running Hare Vineyard is reducing the amount of waste that goes into landfills.

Wildlife Habitat

Running Hare Vineyard is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and birds. They are committed to preserving and enhancing the natural habitat on their property. They have planted native plants and trees, which provide food and shelter for wildlife. Additionally, they have installed birdhouses and bat boxes to provide homes for these animals.

Community Involvement

Running Hare Vineyard is known for its strong community involvement. The vineyard hosts regular events, such as wine tastings, live music, and food festivals, that attract locals and tourists alike. These events provide a space for people to come together and enjoy the vineyard's wine and scenic views.

In addition to hosting events, Running Hare Vineyard is also involved in various community initiatives. The vineyard has partnered with local charities and organizations to raise funds and awareness for important causes. For example, they have hosted events to benefit the Calvert Hospice, the American Cancer Society, and the Maryland Food Bank.

Running Hare Vineyard also supports local businesses by featuring their products at the vineyard's events and in its tasting room. This helps to promote the growth of the local economy and fosters a sense of community among local business owners.

Overall, Running Hare Vineyard's commitment to community involvement has helped to establish it as a beloved local institution. Its events and initiatives have brought people together and helped to support important causes, while also promoting the growth of the local economy.