Rae M.
Yelp
Running Hare Vineyard is such a lovely and picturesque place to have a wine tasting, wedding, event, fun date, or just a day to get away from it all. Located in Frederick, Maryland, the views from Running Hare Vineyard are those from a scenic postcard.
My party of 4 had a Groupon (check on Groupon for great deals) and it included a wine tasting, 4 stem glasses, and 2 bottles of wine. It was a really great bargain. Upon entry, we were given wrist bands to indicate that we were of legal age to drink alcohol. We then moved over to the Tuscan Events Building where the tastings are held. Out of the options listed on the sheet of paper you're given, you're allowed to select 5 wines each to taste. Your wine guide will walk you through each wine in depth and explain each to you. Since we had the Groupon, at the end of the tasting, we were able to select the 2 wines we enjoyed the most to either drink on the spot or to take home.
After the tasting we moved to the ample seating supplied for the customers directly next to the Tuscan Events Building. Each table included an umbrella, which was perfect protection for the hot sun. I strongly suggest you pack your own food/picnic basket, but they do have food vendors onsite for your tummy. The day we were there, they had pizza, taco, and bbq vendors set-up. Additionally, they had an "adult" slushie stand. Don't walk, but run to get 1, 2 or 5 of these frozen gems! Yummers! You can also purchase wine while you dine at the picnic tables.
Coolers, picnic baskets and other personal items are permitted onsite, but ABSOLUTELY NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ARE PERMITTED ON SITE. They will be confiscated. They're open seasonally (check the website) and I believe the hours are 12-6pm. Portable restrooms are located at the entrance and they have a few surprisingly cool outdoor sinks to wash your hands. Apparently children are welcomed, although I don't know why you would want to bring a child to a wine tasting, but whatever. (Side Eye)
With a perfect location and a picturesque scenic view, why not try something new and different in your own back door. The wine is just the cherry on top, well technically it's the grape on top!