CASCADE, Md. — Stone House Urban Winery has opened its doors at Fort Ritchie’s historic castle that was once used for military intelligence training during World War II. While the grand opening for the winery has not yet been announced, visitors to the campus are welcome to come in and enjoy a glass of its signature wines.
History of the winery
The Stone House Urban Winery was founded in 2016 by Lorie Dixon, who began quietly building roots in Washington County. Then in 2021, Laurie Chrzanowski became managing partner to assist Dixon in operations and development.
“My focus is on honoring the history and heritage of the Stone House Urban Winery,” Chrzanowski said, “while developing based on Maryland festivals and community response, the wholesale availability of the wines while honoring the relaxed acceptance that has become the trademark of the business.”
Asked why the move to Fort Ritchie, Chrzanowski explained, “Having outgrown our original tasting room, a wonderful relocation process began to meet the many expectations of patrons which included more space, scenic view and continued guest hospitality.”
The castle of Fort Ritchie
The castle building where the winery is now located is one of the most popular attractions of the now retired military fort. The castle was once used for intelligence training in June 1942 and before that was the summer training facility for the Maryland National Guard beginning in 1927 when the building was built.
A new beginning for the winery
The inside of the winery is a combination of elegance and whimsy. A welcoming charm radiates throughout the two seating areas. A cozy fireplace highlights the main seating area, and a bar highlights the second. There are great views from every window of the growing campus that has come a long way from the days of decay when the fort was not being used and fell into disrepair.
Dixon and Chrzanowski had this to share about their mission and message, “At Stone House we label bottles, not people, and we are thrilled to be part of the Cascade Community and the growing wine area.”
Stone House Urban Winery is located at 14320 Castle Dr. on the campus of the fort. Its hours of operation are Thursday and Friday 2-8 p.m., Saturday 12-8 p.m. and Sunday 1-7 p.m. The winery can be found online at www.stonehouseuw.com.
