A Day of Wine & Racing Set for Pimlico April 16

The Maryland Wineries Association, Maryland Jockey
Club present Decanter: A Day of Maryland Wine & Racing from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 16, in the infield of Pimlico Race Course. 

A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Maryland Wineries Association and their educational and outreach programs.

The Maryland Jockey Club and Maryland Wineries Association are hosting this new event that promotes Maryland's wineries and horse racing industry.

“These important industries not only create jobs and spur economic development but they also help preserve our farmland and cherished natural resources,” Gov. Martin O'Malley said in a news release.

Tickets are available on MissionTix.com, and start at $30 and feature an infield vantage point to all turf and dirt races, samples of Maryland wine and access to local artisans and specialty food, the news release states.

"Equine goods and services will be on site, hand-selected by the Maryland Horse Council," the release states.  

"There's also an upgraded Decanter Pass that includes a full-size
Riedel wine glass, samples of exclusive wines and a chance to win a pair of turfside seats at the 2011 Preakness Stakes.

"These upgraded tickets are available for $45 apiece." Children under 12 will be admitted at no cost, and guests ages 12-21 and designated drivers will be $20.

" ... This inaugural event will preserve historic traditions
and provide a gateway to the future,” Thomas Chuckas, president and chief executive officer of the Maryland Jockey Club, said in the release. 

“This will be the first time the wine industry and the horse industry have worked together,” Ross Peddicord, executive director of the Maryland Horse Industry Board, said in the release.

"There are 50 licensed wineries in Maryland. These wineries—along
with independent commercial vineyards—grow more than 700 acres of grapes," the release states.

"Maryland wineries sold about 1.4 million bottles of wine in 2009, and their wines are available at over 900 retailers and 300 restaurants," said the release.

To Learn more about the Maryland Wine Industry, visit
marylandwine.com.