The Old Line State is cultivating a relationship with wine enthusiasts. And this week’s celebration of Maryland Wine Week at Old Line will help foster that awareness and growth. While it still hasn’t won the heart of “wine snobs” per se (no Maryland wine has hit the Wine Spectator List), there are plenty of fans giving Maryland wines positive reviews. Several of the state’s 62 vineyards have been open since the 1960’s, while others and virtually brand new.

According to the Maryland Winemakers Association, Maryland produces 420 different wines. And, like its neighboring Virginia production, some of the best Maryland wines are white varietals and blends. Locals are able to find Chardonnays for everyday wine for around $20 or less. In fact, many of the local wines priced around $20 or less pair well with summer grilling and pool-side sipping.

At the top of the list are these Maryland wine makers:

Black Ankle – Located in Mount Airy, Black Ankle took home the 2013 Governor’s Cup Award for “Best Red Blend” and “Best White Blend.” They opened in 2008 and grow all grapes on-site in their nearly 100% sustainable vineyard. Out of these top choices, Black Ankle is even considered by a New York Times writer to be “the highest caliber any we tried” in visit to Maryland.

With such hard work in producing such high quality, comes a higher price tag. Their better selection will be priced north of $30 to $40 a bottle – still much less than several California style equivalents. For example, their Crumbling Rock blend is aged in French oak barrels, goes really well with food and offers a more complex flavor profile.

Boordy Vineyards – Boordy was the first commercial winery in Baltimore City in 1945. Located close to Baltimore in Hydes, MD, it’s hard to tell what their fans like more: the winery or the wine. Their Cab Franc got Best in Show at the Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association event last year, and while that one might be sold out, they product 97,000 gallons of wine annually, so there’s much more to choose from.

Their 2008 Veritas Port and 2012 Vidal Blanc received Gold Medals from the Maryland Governor’s Cup Competition. Fans of Sangria and the more fruit forward wines will find many reasons to try Boordy. Their grapes are grown in the central and western portions of Maryland, lending a perfect atmosphere for the fruitier varietals that are also a bit sweeter. Perfect for a hot summer day.