Lost Vineyard Series Vol 1: Clovelly Vineyard
Clovelly Vineyard, a cherished family-run winery nestled along the Chester River in Chestertown, Maryland, has permanently closed its doors, marking the end of an era for the region's wine community. It once stood at 301 Clovelly Lane, Chestertown, MD 21620
Established in 1959, Clovelly Farm (not vineyard yet) was part of a third-generation Eastern Shore farm that embodied the essence of its name—earthworks. The vineyard's ethos was deeply rooted in the land, with wines crafted from 100% hand-harvested grapes grown on its picturesque 10-acre waterfront estate. Visitors were drawn to its serene location, just outside historic Chestertown and centrally located on the Chesapeake Wine Trail, making it an accessible retreat for wine enthusiasts from Baltimore, Washington, and Philadelphia.
The closure of Clovelly Vineyard reflects broader challenges faced by small wineries in the region. For instance, Cassinelli Winery & Vineyards in Church Hill, Maryland, has shifted its focus from wine to spirits, indicating a significant change in its business model.
While Clovelly Vineyard's closure is a significant loss, the Eastern Shore's wine community continues to thrive. Nearby establishments like Casa Carmen Wines in Chestertown and Crow Vineyard & Winery in Kennedyville offer unique experiences for wine lovers. Casa Carmen, for example, combines a boutique winery with a tapas bar, providing a taste of Spanish and South American wine culture. Crow Vineyard & Winery offers a farm stay experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in vineyard life.
As the region adapts to changing times, the legacy of Clovelly Vineyard endures through the memories of those who visited and the community it helped foster. Its commitment to quality, tradition, and the land serves as an inspiration for current and future vintners on Maryland's Eastern Shore.
It is worth noting that any remaining wine produced by Clovelly can be purchased at Triple Creek Winery on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Earlier this year we were able to taste and acquire a Devil’s Reach Red and an aged Chardonnay.
