Linganore Winecellars, a leading winery in Maryland, will mark its 50th anniversary in 2026. Founded in 1976 by Jack and Lucille Aellen, the winery has transformed from a modest family farm into a prominent destination for wine enthusiasts on the East Coast. To commemorate this milestone, Linganore Winecellars will host a series of special events and promotions throughout the year.
Located in Mount Airy, Maryland, Linganore Winecellars has earned a reputation for producing a diverse range of award-winning wines. The winery has become a cornerstone of Maryland’s winemaking history, with over 70 acres dedicated to vineyards. As part of the anniversary celebrations, the Aellen family aims to honor their legacy and express gratitude for the community’s support.
Eric Aellen, who serves as Co-Owner and Vineyard Manager, shared his reflections on the winery’s journey. “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 stated. He expressed pride in seeing the next generation, including his son and niece, prepared to carry on the family’s legacy.
Co-Owner and Executive Winemaker Anthony Aellen elaborated on the family’s commitment to the land. “People look at us and say we ‘own a 230-acre farm.’ Well, not really. 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 explained.
To kick off the golden anniversary, Linganore Winecellars is introducing several special offerings for 2026. On the fourth Monday of each month, visitors can enjoy bar tastings priced at just $2. This nostalgic price harkens back to the winery’s beginnings, allowing guests to sample five signature wines for a modest fee.
Additionally, the winery will host Free Tour Fridays at 2 PM and 4 PM on the first Friday of every month, starting in February. These complimentary tours will provide an inside look at the winery’s operations and history. Following the tour, guests over 21 can visit the Tasting Room to purchase a Bar Tasting or a bottle of their preferred wine. Reservations are encouraged due to limited space.
Beginning in February, Linganore Winecellars will also offer a series called Around the Family Table. This bi-monthly event invites patrons to join the Aellen brothers for intimate story sessions, where they will share anecdotes and insights from their five decades of winemaking.
The anniversary celebration will evolve throughout the year, featuring a variety of legendary festivals and exclusive events. Linganore Winecellars plans to showcase anniversary-themed activities and limited edition releases. To stay updated on these announcements, the winery encourages fans to join their email list via their website.
As a family-owned and operated winery, Linganore Winecellars remains dedicated to producing high-quality wines while fostering a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. With its rich history and commitment to excellence, the winery looks forward to celebrating this significant milestone and continuing to thrive in the future.
