Elk Run Vineyards is nestled in the rolling hills of Frederick County surrounded by dairy and horse farms and fields of wheat and corn. The name “Elk Run” was chosen for a stream. The deed name to the property is the “Resurvey of Cold Friday.” It was a land grant from the King of England to Lord Baltimore. The winemaker’s home is circa 1756. Since 1983 Fred and Carol Wilson and Neill Bassford, along with associates, family and friends, have made Elk Run a shining star among American wine producers. Using new world research and technology while maintaining the traditions and values of old world practices, Elk Run’s focus is on producing high quality wine from high quality grapes. Soils of schist and shale allow for deep roots and good drainage. Seven to eight hundred foot elevations help keep the vineyard safe from frost danger. Warm days and cool nights preserve the fruity character in the wines.Practicing sustainable agriculture, close spacing and great attention to crop levels allow the wine maker to create wines of varietal character, structure, balance and good color.
We started going to Elk Run back in 2015 or so after trying other wineries in the area. What a great find! Immediately we joined their club. Their Cab Franc is exactly what we love; spicy and delicious. Unfortunately, back in the day, we did not take notes. The last time we were there was Valentines Day, 2021. Here are my notes from then:
And the Cab Franc is still a standout!
Not crazy about the cab suav. It’s not bad but nothing to write home about. The Syrah is delicious! Red Door was a very nice light redux, good for spring and summer.
PS – The Truffles on Valentines day were outstanding!
While a few wines are augmented by additional fruit, Elk Run Grows all the varieties it makes. Elk Run is the sole grower, producer of Gewurztraminer, the first and one of two who grow Pinot Noir ( 4 time Gold medal winner in 2012 for our 2010.
