2025 U.S. & Maryland Winery Landscape
The U.S. winery industry has undergone a subtle yet significant transformation over the past year. The total number of American wineries decreased by 1.5% in 2024, falling to 11,450, while Canada saw a similar trend with a 2% decline to 871 wineries. This decline signals a period of adjustment as the industry experiences a deceleration in the rate of new winery openings and faces the challenges of consolidation, economic strain, and evolving consumer trends.
California, still the industry titan, remains home to 41% of U.S. wineries, though this is a decrease from 43% the year prior. Notably, while the number of bonded wineries in California increased slightly, the number of virtual wineries—wineries that use another facility to produce their wine—plummeted by 25%. This broader contraction in virtual wineries nationwide (down to 1,378 from 1,489) suggests a tightening of resources and heightened operational challenges in the wine sector.
In the Pacific Northwest, Oregon and Washington both posted declines (5% and 2% respectively), while Texas led growth among major states with a 5% increase to 539 wineries. Florida also stood out with a surprising 26% jump—primarily due to virtual operations. Conversely, traditional wine powerhouses like Virginia and Michigan showed stagnation or small declines. States with growing populations and improving wine infrastructure tended to see better numbers.
Maryland: A Region on the Rise
While not in the top ten by total count, more around 17th out of 50. Maryland continues to build a reputation as a burgeoning wine state, bucking the national trend of contraction. With its varied terroirs—from the Piedmont Plateau to the Chesapeake Basin—and growing interest in hybrid and cold-hardy grape varietals, Maryland's wine industry is poised for further growth and recognition.
According to Wine Business Analytics and local reports, Maryland’s wineries are gaining ground through innovation and quality. The state has seen increasing interest in locally driven, small-batch wineries and eco-conscious viticulture. Many of these wineries emphasize sustainable practices, and several have been nationally recognized for their hybrid grape wines—a category gaining popularity as climate conditions shift.
Maryland’s wine scene is also experiencing a boost thanks to regional tourism and expanded local wine trails. The state's proximity to major urban centers like Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia continues to drive foot traffic to tasting rooms. Furthermore, collaborations between wineries, state agencies, and tourism boards have elevated Maryland’s visibility within the national wine map, offering a compelling mix of accessibility and authenticity. As of now Maryland boasts about 114 wineries. Most of which are part of the Maryland Wine Association. Due to Maryland’s small size the number of wineries per capita would place us well into the to 10 states with the most wineries.
As neighboring Virginia’s growth plateaus, Maryland is seizing an opportunity to expand and distinguish itself—not necessarily by volume, but by the character and creativity of its producers. More wineries are investing in hospitality programs, event spaces, and direct-to-consumer models that strengthen local loyalty and brand resilience.
Looking Broader: Trends in the U.S. and Canada
Over the past five years, the number of U.S. wineries grew by 9%, though that growth is tapering. Texas has been the standout, adding 133 wineries since 2020. Meanwhile, small-scale producers have become the backbone of the U.S. wine scene. As of 2024, limited production wineries (under 1,000 cases/year) now represent 51% of all U.S. wineries, up from 47% in 2020. There’s also been a noticeable shift toward premium pricing: more wineries are charging between $50 and $100 per SKU on average, and those pricing above $100 have grown in number.
In Canada, Ontario led winery growth, buoyed by a government-supported recovery plan. The province added enough new wineries to offset declines elsewhere, although British Columbia—the nation’s largest wine-producing region—continued to struggle with climate-related setbacks and reduced tourism. B.C. still leads the country with 38% of total wineries, but Ontario (34%) and Quebec (20%) are narrowing the gap.
The cold snap of January 2022, coupled with lingering pandemic-era financial burdens, has forced Canadian wineries to rethink operations. Some are importing U.S. grapes, particularly in B.C., while others are exploring varietal replanting programs. Government-backed grants are expected to ease transition pains but won't fully offset an estimated $346 million CAD in losses.
While the overall number of wineries has slipped, the future of North American wine remains cautiously optimistic—especially in smaller, emerging markets like Maryland, where adaptability, innovation, and regional pride are fueling a quiet renaissance. With consumer interest tilting toward authenticity, localism, and high-quality, boutique experiences, states like Maryland are well-positioned to capture the next generation of wine lovers.
