Summary
Brad and Callie Hankey, owners of Two Lions Vineyard in Maryland, grow a variety of grapes with meticulous care. They use innovative practices and technology, drawing inspiration from European wines and their scientific backgrounds.
May 2024 Grower Highlight – Brad and Callie Hankey of Two Lions Vineyard
Maryland’s wine industry is one of inspiration and ingenuity. There are many growers who are well-deserved to be recognized, so that is just what I am going to do each month! Once a month, a Maryland grape grower will be highlighted to tell their story, give them a platform to speak to what they feel is important in the industry or to take the opportunity and discuss whatever they would like!
This month I’d like to introduce Brad and Callie Hankey, a dedicated grape-growing couple who have been part of the MGGA since 2019. They started their vineyard, Two Lions Vineyard, in the same year they purchased their picturesque property. Located in Upper Marlboro, their vineyard is quickly becoming known for its meticulous vine maintenance and innovative approaches to grape growing.
Brad and Callie grow a diverse array of grape varieties: Vidal, Chardonnay, Chardonel, SK5773, Albariño, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Barbera, Chambourcin, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. They are particularly passionate about the level of care and attention they give their vines, touching them 25-30 times a year. Their approach is super meticulous, reflecting their belief that investing up front will pay off in the long run. They’ve invested in technology such as heaters for frost protection and lasers to deter birds, understanding that mechanizing certain vineyard tasks frees up more time to spend on improving vineyard care.
Brad and Callie are both science enthusiasts with backgrounds in biology and chemistry, which has greatly influenced their approach to viticulture. They have traveled extensively in Europe, drawing inspiration from the wines they’ve tasted around the world. This global perspective, combined with their scientific knowledge and agricultural experience, has shaped the unique style and practices at Two Lions Vineyard.
One unique practice they have adopted is double caning on Vidal, an innovation that has proven to be a huge step forward in vine productivity. Double caning is the process of laying down two canes on each side of the fruiting wire, instead of one. This technique has led to less frequent hedging and more balanced vigor, demonstrating their commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional grape growing to achieve success.
For Brad and Callie, the most satisfying part of growing grapes is the harvest. They cherish the moments when friends come out to help, making it a communal and rewarding experience. Pruning in the winter is another favorite task, providing a peaceful and productive start to the year. Brad makes every cut throughout the vineyard and starts as early as January 2nd and continues until March, all while balancing a day job.
Their commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of their operation, from the advanced technologies they employ to their hands-on approach to vine care. As they look back on their journey, their advice to new growers is clear: be willing to invest and never compromise on vine maintenance. The success story at Two Lions Vineyard is a testament to the rewards of dedication, innovation, and a willingness to go all in.
I would encourage everyone to visit Two Lions Vineyard and experience the fruits of Brad and Callie’s labor. Their wines are a reflection of their passion, expertise, and the beautiful Maryland landscape they call home.
If you’d like to be featured in one of our monthly grape grower highlights, please reach out to me, Glenn Lucas, at glenn@m-avs.com. I love getting to know the wonderful people in our industry and relish the opportunity to promote others.