Not family friendly. If you have kids, just don't bother going. There are better options and the staff is extremely rude. And wine is meh.

Bring a picnic and your dog! This is my favorite escape. Even my teenagers love to head here and relax in the sun on a blanket. The wine is perfect. The food options are great (we always get the cheese plate). Very relaxed and laid back. read more

We are Californians who were visiting relatives in the DC area. We drove out to Sugarloaf for a drive in the country. The setting was nice but there was a terrible infestation of stinkbugs outdoors - and guess where the wine tasting is? Yes, in a tent outdoors. You pay to stand in line under a canvas awning to quickly taste "tablespoons" of wine (we asked the serving size and were told it was 'the normal - a tablespoon')- no ambience at all and the server had no real knowledge of the wines she was serving us. The wines weren't that good. The venue serves more as an outdoor cafe - the indoor serving space is like a fast-food counter where you wait in line to order a glass of wine (we had Sangria after tasting the wine) and cheese plates (the only food available). We were very disappointed and it made us appreciate our own wineries here in California so much more. read more

I decided to write this review to notify customers that you better make sure your group has less than four people or else the staff (made up of angry middle aged women with a faulty sense of superiority) will look you up and down and banish you outside to sit in the cold. I came with my family (a party of 6 - including two elderly people) and even though the place was empty on a cold March Sunday they would not let us pull up two chairs to the table, so we had to sit outside and freeze while we drink our wine. It was almost like a comedy skit with an older woman staff member standing by our group and loudly herding us outside (while another woman behind the cash register kept yelling - loud enough for even the old and deaf in our group - that inside was only for parties of 4) to ensure that we did not sit down. I used to love coming here with my boyfriend and enjoying a glass of wine and cheese, but the place has really changed and not for the better. First the staff - the last two times I have come bringing out-of-state friends the staff has treated the lot of us with disdain and disrespect. They did not give us eye contact, rushed the wine-tasting (despite us being one group of two in the whole place), and generally acted like they wished there weren't paying customers to inconvenience them from their own side conversations with other staff members. The women were plain rude and infuriatingly so. Second - they jacked up the price of everything - where previously this quaint winery had nice cheese plates for cheap they now sell everything a la carte and at exorbitant prices (8 and 9 dollars for a cheese that is 3 dollars at the grocery... please). My guess is now that this once humble place won a few cheap awards for their overly sweet wines they think they can act like its a privilege for you the customer to be there. Don't be fooled there are a lot of higher caliber wineries in the vicinity that have wonderful staff members - I suggest by passing the place and going straight for the hiking trails nearby. read more

They've really turned this into a money in the bank date spot. Grab some wine (the $15 sweet red Stomp is a crowd pleaser) sit on the sunny patio and chat while taking in some relaxing acoustic live tunes. Doesn't get much better. Also if you're like us and love dogs, cats and dancing small children you'll be amused for hours. It's really the closest nice vineyard to DC in Maryland and only a 30 minute drive up 270. We go the back way on motorcycle through Poolesville, which is a very pleasant drive. Point is you can drink away an afternoon super easily here and do it on the cheap. You can bring your own picnic or the tasty cheese and fruit platter is reasonable at $12. Gentlemen, your lady (new or old) will love it! read more

We hiked Sugarloaf Mountain and came here to end the perfect day. They are dog friendly, which was perfect! We sat outside and enjoyed a great tasting, our rep was fabulous! She educated us on each selection and shared great stories to help remember each selection. We hope to be back soon! Next time I will definitely bring some food to enjoy on the property with our wine. read more

The scenery is beautiful here, but I was really disappointed with how rude the staff was, well one lady in particular. I wouldn't go back but at least I can say that I have been! read more

I am giving this Vineyard four stars because I loved almost all of the wines I tasted during the wine tasting, the atmosphere was very peaceful and serene, the staff was super friendly, they served snacks like crackers and lots of different cheeses at a reasonable price and they were dog friendly. Occasionally on the weekends they have live music which is really nice. My only critique is that the hours are noon to 6 PM seven days a week. I really really really wish they would stay open later on at least a Friday or Saturday like the vineyards in Virginia do, however the hours could be set due to the city or county regulation, I'm not sure. But nonetheless I've enjoyed my many visits to Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard so much so that I wish they would extend their hours so I would have more time to spend out there. If you make the trip out here you are sure to not be disappointed. It's peaceful serene, and you cannot go wrong with a great bottle of wine, which they have plenty to chose from. Enjoy my friends! read more

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We stop by here after hiking around Sugarloaf Mountain (a couple of minutes down the road). This is a young winery and the wines reflect some inexperience. Through they are really nice for a picnic. I recommend taking the winery tour here. The winery is in a new building with a floor to ceiling two story glass wall. Really different for a winery. read more

Three friends and I visited today (1 is a member) and we had a great experience tasting and enjoying a bottle at the vineyard. Courtney gave us EXCELLENT tasting notes, and obviously knew a lot about the vintages and the history of the vineyard. We ended up enjoying the Chimera and the Cab Franc Reserve on site, while snacking on delicious Cava snacks. The site is beautiful, and is a great place to enjoy wine with friends (and dogs!) after a morning hike. read more

We had such a nice afternoon at the Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard. I highly recommend a trip here post hike. On a cool fall day, it was very special to be sipping wine outside. We all agreed the wine was crisp and refreshing. Though, the food options are minimal, so do not come too hungry! read more

A lovely location and a nice group of patrons. But the wine is repulsive, and that would be true at any price. And at the price they are selling it for, it's laughable. So go if you want the outing and have a good time. But don't plan on drinking anything there. read more

Great wines (especially the whites) that they make almost entirely from grapes grown on-site (which is pretty uncommon in the area). Staff was very pleasant and helpful. The picnic areas are great, with lots of dogs hanging out. read more

We were excited to discover Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard through the Maryland Wine website. Upon arrival, the beautiful red barn invites guests to enjoy the mountain view. During the week, guests complete wine tastings inside at the tasting bar but on the weekends tastings are completed in the event tent near the patio seating area. No need to pick a specific number of wines from a list, Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard does their best to ensure every guest receives the full experience which is why every tasting includes a taste of every wine they have available! Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard offers a wide range of wines from full body Cab Francs to floral Viogniers. As we moved throughout the facility, we noticed one of my favorite things: dog bowls! Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard may not be able to allow dogs into their indoor wine tasting bar area, but they make sure any four legged guests have plenty of water available to them while their owners enjoy a glass or bottle of wine. While our original visit was only to enjoy a tasting, I look forward to returning to experience an event or bring my fur children by for a relaxing day! read more

We had a great time just relaxing with a glass of wine and a platter of cheese. It was a great place to stop and chill after hiking Sugarloaf Mountain. The winery is also dog-friendly! There is a big patio where you can sit and enjoy your wine with your dog. (All dogs must be leashed.) It was a great way to spend the afternoon! read more

This vineyard has it all. A gorgeous setting, kind knowledgeable staff members, tasty award-winning wines and on top of it all dog friendly!!! On the weekends they have live music, a pizza vendor, cheese plates, tons of outdoor seating with outdoor wine tasting and even an area where you can play corn hole. A perfect place to spend a gorgeous summer day. Love SMV and love how dog-friendly they are!!!! read more

I came here with 4 friends toward the end of a long bike ride from DC to Little Bennett National Park. We each paid for a tasting ($10) and then went in on a bottle of wine. The woman who provided the tasting was very friendly and the wine was good. As we were sitting outside, a storm rolled in. Once it got bad enough that they put the umbrellas down, we sought shelter in the lower area. We stacked our bikes in a back corner in the trash area so all our gear that we needed for the night wouldn't get soaked and decided to buy another bottle of wine and some food while we waited out the storm. As I went to my bike to grab my credit card, a female employee called over to me asking, "Are you going to hold us liable if your bikes fall over?". I thought it an odd question but replied in a very friendly manner, "of course not!". She the replied stating, "well, we usually keep this area open". Our bikes were leaned up against trash cans but there was nothing past the cans and there was no other shelter where we could put the bikes not in a seating area. I get that they made getting to the trash cans less convenient, but I would hope a business would have some sympathy for paying customers who have no other safe option during a passing storm. I walked away not wanting to start an argument just glad that our bikes and all of our overnight gear were under shelter. I proceeded to buy a bottle of wine and crackers, cheese, and salami from another very friendly employee. We sat down and enjoyed as the storm continued on. It was nearing 6PM and we were told in no uncertain terms that we needed to be off the premises by 6PM. So off we road in the storm. Fortunately they did give us a few trash bags so our sleeping gear stayed dry. Long overdue update: One of the managers reached out to thank us for coming by and to apologize for the negative portion of the experience also stating that they really needed to get more cover! We figured out who the woman was who was less than pleasant to me and there were some personal things going on that were bigger than what was going on at the winery that day. My friends and I agree that we would go back should we do this ride again. read more

I can't tell you how disappointed I was with my visit today. I've been going to sugarloaf vineyard for years and have always loved the fun, laid back, family atmosphere of the place. I'm even a member of their Bacchus club, a paid membership to enjoy new releases of their wines, etc. My group of friends meets there 2x a year with our families to connect and enjoy the wine tastings, while the kids have open space to run around. I'm not sure if it was due to change of ownership or what, but the staff was extremely unwelcoming of our group and the kids today. Unlike past visits, they weren't allowed to be out of reach of an adult, couldn't run in the wide open field unless an adult was right with them (mind you, they are always in our eyesight), no balls, no games...it was ridiculous! And it was not crowded. This had NEVER been an issue in the past! We will certainly be bringing our business elsewhere in the future, and I'm canceling my Bacchus club membership. I'm completely disappointed and angered by the whole experience. read more

Great service and loved the laid-back atmosphere. Went with my sister after hiking Sugarloaf Mountain. Came down the mountain to the winery. Everyone was very friendly. At first I was going to sample a few wines, but when I saw the Comus, it was love at first sip. Barrel-aged for 22 months and just released, I knew that I had to try it. Love at first taste! It smells lovely, and the taste of the full-bodied, fruity wine meant I would have to linger over every sip. I sipped two glasses and paired it with the goat cheese, multi-grain chips and the raspberry preserves --- soooooo good! I bought a bottle of the Comus and cannot wait to share it with friends. I think the Comus will do well in competition too. read more

I give this vineyard 3 stars for various reasons. My fiance and I visited on a Friday afternoon, and the place was quiet and the woman who did our tsating was super nice. It looked like the kind of place where I could bring a book and just sit outside and enjoy the scenery. They also use around 75%-80% estate grown grapes, which I like to see! It almost seems like it's cheating when places don't use estate grown grapes for the majority of their wines. But sadly, the wines fell short for me. I like really big, bold, full-bodied reds, and Sugarloaf does not have a single red that fits that description. Their 2 whites were both very good - a pino grigio and a chardonney (which I don't normally care for), and I can imagine myself drinking either of them outside on a hot summer day. But, I've also had better whites (for less $) elsewhere. read more

Short review: New management and a new, aggressive security presence have taken our friendly local winery away and replaced it with a colder, unwelcoming place to buy wine that happens to be surrounded by beauty. The good news is, there are lots of other places in the area to be in nature and have a great winery experience. Bring back the old Sugarloaf Vineyard! What happened: One recent Saturday my family and I were excited to spend the afternoon at our local vineyard, Sugarloaf Mountain Winery, celebrating a graduation and treating out-of-town guests to a fun and comfortable experience. Since moving to the area five years ago, Sugarloaf has been a favorite of ours to spend a casual afternoon and to showcase the beauty of our surroundings to friends and family. Yesterday was our first trip since last fall and we noticed several differences that, unfortunately, changed our experience for the worse. We were greeted at the entrance by security personnel, as indicated by their black shirts that read in large capital letters, SECURITY. They inspected our cooler of cheese and water to ensure we had no banned substances, and also went through each of our bags. We have always respected the policy of no outside alcoholic beverages, and I can understand, perhaps, the need to inspect coolers, if abuse of this rule had gotten out of hand. But the degree to which we were "inspected", down to my 15-year-old niece's small, colorful satchel, felt aggressive and unnecessary. It felt more like a TSA screening at the airport and less like we were entering a friendly local vineyard. Within 20 minutes of our arrival, as a second car of family members arrived and got settled, and while some of us were already enjoying a tasting (Gina was fun, thoughtful, and very informative, by the way) a security team member approached our table to be sure that "we were all here to purchase wine." This was incredibly off-putting. We were still in the midst of unpacking and laying down blankets, a third of our party was already purchasing wine, and the remainder had either just walked in the gate or were watching the two young children we had with us. At no offense to this beautiful location, we are surrounded by beauty in this area. If all we wanted was a pretty place to picnic - without tasting and purchasing wine - we have ample options. The approach and tone of this question still baffles us. We enjoyed the next hour - our table purchased a bottle of Penelope, Comus, and Anticipation, as well as three glasses of sangria and several al la cart packaged snacks - and just after five o'clock (5:06pm to be exact) we were approached by the same security team member to inform us that the vineyard would be closing at 6pm, a fact we were well aware of having been frequent patrons over the years. He then proceeded to "clarify" himself, adding that we should be "in our cars and leaving at 6pm....", that, "...no one is to be on the grounds once the clock strikes 6pm." He added, "You'll be seeing me several times again before then to remind you of the time." There was nothing about our family gathering that garnered excessive attention, which leads me to believe this kind of communication and security presence is now common practice, a fact I find most unsettling. Having traveled to many other local wineries over the years, I have never been addressed this way - by a security team - ever. It was unfriendly, seemingly unnecessary, and detracted from our experience. Prior to posting this public review I reached out twice to Sugarloaf Vineyard directly to share this experience and hear their side. Sadly, we received no reply either time. We are disappointed and disheartened to think that this is the new Sugarloaf Vineyard experience. We do hope Sugarloaf finds a way to balance the warm and friendly atmosphere that we've known for the last five years with whatever security needs they feel are now necessary. We understand there's been a chance in ownership and management, and hope this isn't a new permanent change in philosophy. read more

Overall, a lovely experience. Granted it's not the most amazing wine I've had in my life but the ambiance, scenery, and level of service sets them apart from, well, other vineyards in the middle of nowhere. The wine is reasonably priced however everything else seemed expensive to me. So I wouldn't necessarily coming here if you're starving. It can also get really busy on Saturdays with table hogs (you know the type!) so keep that in mind. They frequently have specials and events so make sure to check their website to see what's going on if you're planning a visit! read more

We really love this place. It has the perfect easy going atmosphere, wonderful wine, very friendly staff, and great location at the base of Sugarloaf. We showed up last Saturday with our dog, and when I asked a staff member where I could get water to fill her dish, he offered to take it back up to the barn and fill it for me. We also enjoyed the acoustic guitar music and met some really fun people read more

Visited here on a chilly Saturday afternoon last weekend. I'm not always a huge fan of reds and they have quite a few -- but I REALLY enjoyed our tasting! So close to Frederick, and next time, we'll stay a little longer. read more

I came here under the assumption they advertise "kid friendly" atmosphere. Fantastic! We were super stoked to check it out from out of state visiting family with little ones on Memorial Day. We were stopped right when we walked in that we weren't allowed to have balls come in their facility. Totally cool! We brought the ball back, no hesitation. After I did the tasting with my mom and sister in law while the little ones were eating their lunch at the picnic table...we were told that the kids were welcome, but needed to sit at the table specifically. My mom went to check with Jennifer who mentioned this to my brother and husband that the children needed to be supervised, hence two adults while we we patronizing and doing a tasting at the facility while being in the case of adults. After being completely disregarded in the most unprofessional manner and said other tables complained about my children-which they said was false and they wanted to talk the staff because they were concerned their dogs were bothering the children. The manager said there's a difference between family friendly and tolerating children. I'm sorry? How about you do your business a solid by just not letting children on your property. After reading these reviews and taking our business else where, it seems as if sugarloaf could take a hint and make this rule accordingly. Oh and while leaving the "tasting room manager" yelled good luck hiding behind your keyboard after addressing our issues and concerns. Steer far and clear and take it to Rockland Farms for a far superior staff and more accepting atmosphere, as their sign mentioned underneath. Oh and a sign like this would help too-no wonder your business seemed to be faulty and theirs was thriving. Or maybe don't advertise family friendly?! The most unprofessional vineyard and winery I have ever been too. It seems as if this seems to be a pattern. Maybe management could take some tips? Seems like they are losing tremendous business. read more

Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard - Wineries Near Me - Dickerson, Maryland

Great little vineyard in the area. Pretty impressed. The wine is also pretty good. Looked like they have events and i would say if you haven't gone here check out the events I'm sure it would be a good day. read more

Wine were pretty weak here. A nice lil drive to Sugarloaf Mt. I didn't like the fact that Parents brought Children or Ppl with Pets. Really! Picnic area & your letting your dog poop. And bring them indoors when we're trying to get away from them. Those of us with allergies don't appreciate it. I was told the lil foo-foo dogs were service dogs. My azz..... read more

The wife and I loved the place and the choices of wine were very delicious. Took my kids along and they were not impress but the wife and I enjoyed it. If I lived nearby I would be here every weekend. I'm not a wine lover but I tried every flavor and I can pretty much say I loved them. Bring your wallet because you are going to want to take some home. read more

Had a great time. Was a nice rest after hiking the mountain. Staff was very friendly. Plenty of outdoor seating. Brought our 2 y.o daughter that had a good time playing with the other kids there. Not sure where all the negative comments came from in regards to it no longer being kid friendly. There were 5-8 kids there. Some playing catch, some running around, and a few playing with dogs with no issues. Will definitely be back! read more

Just came back from their wine tasting event. I had to leave early because they have almost no bathrooms to handle the crowd for their weekend wine event. I asked to use the employee's bathroom and was told there wasn't one. There were 2 bathrooms and 1 outside porta potty for way too many people. I estimate 300+ not including the employees. There were over 20 people in line just for the single porta potty ... mostly women with very unhappy faces. read more

Great place to start if you're looking to pick up wine tasting as a hobby!! Enjoyed outdoor music and picnic with a lovely group of girls on a beautiful summer Saturday. read more

I never went here for the wine, which is mediocre. However it used to be a fun relaxed place, especially for families. The large field was a good place to bring a picnic, let the kids play with their balls and frisbees, etc. No more. No balls, frisbees or outside toys. No outside soft drinks so you can't even bring anything for your kids to drink. The only thing drinkable is the Sangria, but they have raised the price and also moved it to a far end of the parking lot where no one is sitting. It isn't much fun any more, and actually buying things is much harder than it needs to be. read more

What a gem of a vineyard! The wine tasting was a good price for all of the samples you get to try, and the wine itself was tasty. The vineyard was picturesque, the staff was friendly, the drive was easy, and parking was a breeze. I loved it. read more

Love the selection of wines, they have more reds than whites and the reds are a bit too dry for me but I do enjoy the atmosphere of the winery. Nice scenery nearby and knowledgeable staff. You can have a picnic there and best of all they are dog-friendly! read more

(I would have given zero stars had this interface permitted it.) My little wine tasting group (consisting of myself, my wife, my sister-in-law, and my daughter tagging along) decided to visit Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard after being turned away at the door by Tarara at 4:45. Sugarloaf indicates that they are open until 6:00, and we had plenty of time to get there from Tarara. We had been to Sugarloaf twice before and found their wines to be not altogether unpleasant but not spectacular. We got in the door at 5:28 p.m., but there was nobody behind the tasting counter. My wife and sister-in-law waited and I walked outside to take a couple of pictures. I came back inside and there was still nobody at the counter. Finally a woman came out and told us that they were closed for tasting as of 5:30. We explained that we were there before 5:30 but nobody was there to wait on us, but even as she offered to sell us glasses of wine, she informed us that state regulations do not permit them to do tastings after 5:30. I did not and do not believe her, but her refusal to serve us ruined what had otherwise been a pretty nice "Not My President's Day." We had driven a long way to get there. We will never be back. You can treat me that rudely once, but I will not give you the chance to do so a second time. read more

A solid 3.5 stars. Like the other reviewers said...I wouldn't drive from DC just to go to the winery, but it's a nice stop from visiting Sugarloaf Mountain. The drive to the vineyard is nice and relaxing. I did the wine tasting and tried 4 wines for $5. The pours were very small. The wine was good, but not memorable. One white and three reds. I enjoyed the first three, but the last was like juice - way too sweet. I may be being too harsh because I just returned a week ago from Napa Valley, so my expectations may have been too high. The atmosphere is pleasant. There was live music and the outdoor sitting area was comfortable and relaxing. A nice place for a bottle of wine and cheese and enjoying the outdoors. read more

Came here with my father on a weekday; beautiful place and awesome hospitality! We were fortunate enough to get a tour from the winemaker, himself, Manolo - really sweet and humble guy. Not to mention, a great winemaker! (Thanks for showing us around!) We walked away with a couple of bottles: 2011 Comus, 2010 EVOE! Also try to snag a bottle or two of the Penelope and Circe vintages. Great for sipping on the porch for summer or pairing with a wide variety of different dishes. Can't wait to go back! read more

Excellent service and fun times here especially during the warmer months when they have live outdoor music playing on the weekends. All you need is a blanket, bottle of wine, a few things to snack on and you're good to go (they're cool with you bringing your own picnic which is a plus I've been going here for years and have never had any problems or issues with this :) ) and prices are very decent. The place is also pet friendly. Lots of other dogs there so your little four legged friend can meet and greet as well. Also, try the Stomp fest they throw annually in October. Really impressive, last time I went I saw a new bride and groom stomping grapes in their wedding attire, super cute :) read more

The winery makes an excellent stop on the way back from a hike on Sugarloaf Mountain. We were really pleased with our tasting -- 7 wines for $10. Really delicious local wines. My favorite part about the winery though, is that it is very dog friendly. We were allowed to bring our well behaved dogs into the tasting room. We had a picnic out on the patio and several employees, including Jim, one of the co-owners, came out to say "hi" to the dogs, and give them water and treats. The warmed mulled wine was a perfect accompaniment to the outdoor heaters to combat the winter chill. An excellent way to spend an afternoon. read more

We went here to check out the nearby Sugarloaf Mountain for hiking with our dog and lo and behold this winery is super dog-friendly! The atmosphere was fun and relaxed. The wines were pretty good for Mid-Atlantic wines (check out their sangria in the summer). My only gripe was the cheese and cracker prices. But, you can bring your own picnic to avoid that! I will definitely be making more appearances here! read more