177 Frazee Ridge Rd
Friendsville, MD 21531

CONFIDENTIAL LISTING -- PLEASE TREAT WITH DISCRETION
Few wineries offer a tasting room in one of the Mid-Atlantic’s most acclaimed tourism destinations AND decades of profitable wholesale activity at stores and restaurants across Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Yet, here it is — in a fairy-tale rural setting on a picturesque hillside with a custom-built residence attached.
The current owners are retiring. For nearly 30 years, they cultivated a relaxed, unpretentious farm-winery ethic backed by equally Old School marketing strategies: a website geared to wine geeks; earned media mentions; strategically placed promotional materials; and shelf space in area stores that drove customers to discover and visit.
The property’s modest sales price allows new owners — with fresh perspectives and desire to maximize social media marketing — to build on solid business fundamentals and expand accommodations for a 21st-century “Instagram-able” visitor experience.
This one-of-a-kind site offers the chance to work and live in a serene setting framed by massive conifers, far from urban congestion and bustle, yet fully connected with high-speed internet and only 6 miles from an interstate highway. Air quality routinely ranks among America’s top 40 counties. The area abounds in four-season amenities. The winery sits on a well-traveled state highway that is the main artery for travelers from the nearest metro area. Modern conveniences and activities are only a few minutes away. Some of the East’s most famous white-water rivers and trout streams are down the road. The historic Great Allegheny Passage bike trail carrying 1 million thirsty explorers annually is 18 minutes away. Located one hour and 40 minutes from Pittsburgh, the venue is within easy reach of 2 popular tourism areas: 20 minutes from Ohiopyle State Park and Nemacolin Woodlands in the Laurel Highlands, and 30 minutes from Maryland’s Deep Creek Lake resort area.
European vines (Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay) were grown for 20 years on the 7.5-acre property. But, the area’s formerly harsh winters and short growing season constrained operations to such extent that, over the last five years, the vines were removed. The ideally oriented 2.5-acre hillside vineyard site could easily be re-developed. But the current owners focused instead on collaborating with local growers and committed vineyard sources in the region.
Wine production occurs outdoors and in the cellar of the 3-bedroom, 4,300-sq. ft structure. Included is a cozy, hickory-floored tasting room (~500 sq. ft.) and a patio with stunning views for guests.
Pandemic-era production at this boutique winery is currently about 500 cases per year, though production was far higher for much of the company’s history — topping out around 1,400 cases annually.
The quality-built, all-electric “chalet-style” home (2000), has energy-efficient heat and air conditioning — monthly bills average less than $150 — as well as hardwood floors, a custom kitchen with quartz countertops, modern tile and quartz bathrooms, wood-clad windows, and a wood-burning stove for rustic, economical heating. Three picture windows face directly west to catch every spectacular sunset illuminating the valley and ridge-lines.
A profitable business with multiple opportunities for growth creates a fantastic opportunity to live your dream and become part of the Mid-Atlantic’s thriving wine industry!
Inventory will be sold separately.
Additional information and photos available upon execution of a Non-Disclosure Agreement.