Frederick, MD — Simple Theory Wine Co. has announced the official opening of its tasting lounge in downtown Frederick, Maryland, scheduled for Friday, December 6. Located at 37 N. Market St., Suite 200, on the second floor of the building that also houses Serendipity on Market, the new space will offer wine enthusiasts a chance to sample a variety of locally produced wines.
The tasting room will operate with extended hours: noon to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and noon to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The winery’s portfolio features 12 wines, including dry whites, rosé, reds, and three sparkling options. Prices for the wines range from $28 to $49, with customers able to purchase wines by the glass.
In addition to wine tastings, guests will be able to create custom snack boards, choosing from a selection of meats, cheeses, and other accompaniments to complement their wine experience.
The opening of the tasting room marks a significant milestone for Melissa Aellen, 33, and her cousin, viticulturist Parker Aellen, 24, who have spent several years developing the business. Melissa, the winemaker, grew up immersed in the world of winemaking at Linganore Winecellars in nearby Mt. Airy, Maryland. Her grandparents, Jack and Lucille Aellen, established the winery in 1976 after planting the first grapes on a 230-acre farm. They later helped establish the Linganore American Viticultural Area (AVA), which is now Maryland’s first federally designated grape-growing region.
Melissa credits her family’s legacy in the wine industry as a driving force behind her own passion for winemaking. After earning a degree in winemaking and viticulture from Cornell University in 2013, she honed her craft with stints at wineries in Oregon, Illinois, New York’s Finger Lakes, New Zealand, and Napa Valley before returning to Maryland in 2017. She also holds an Executive MBA.
“I’ve always known I wanted to make wine,” Melissa said, reflecting on her journey. “This is all I’ve ever wanted to do.”
The name “Simple Theory” was chosen after much deliberation from a list of potential ideas. For Melissa, the name encapsulates the winery’s approach to winemaking: accessible, uncomplicated, and rooted in the fundamentals. “It’s all about making Maryland wine more approachable for everyone,” she explained. “We want to break down the barriers for new wine consumers and offer an easy entry point into wine through simple, educational experiences.”
Anthony Aellen, Melissa’s father and longtime winemaker at Linganore, emphasized that the new venture also aims to shift the perception of Linganore Winecellars, which has traditionally been associated with sweet wines, to highlight a broader range of wine styles.
“We’re hoping this new space will allow us to showcase the diversity and quality of Maryland wines,” said Anthony. “We’re excited to share this journey with our community.”
With its focus on creating an inviting and educational space, Simple Theory Wine Co. aims to make a lasting impression on both local wine enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
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