The St. Mary’s County Arts Council (SMCAC) and the Port of Leonardtown Winery (POL) have announced the top three finalists in their label design contest. This contest, created to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the winery’s tasting room and raise funds for SMCAC, invited local artists to create a label for the winery’s first-ever sparkling red wine.

The finalists’ designs, chosen by a panel of winery staff and Arts Council representatives, are now open for community voting. Residents and art enthusiasts are encouraged to participate by selecting their favorite design. Voting will determine the first, second, and third place winners.

The winning label will be featured on the limited-run sparkling red wine, with only 65 cases produced. The wine will debut at a celebration in May 2025. In addition to having their artwork displayed on the label, the first-place artist will be a featured guest at the release event, where they will sign bottles and engage with attendees.

The winner may also have opportunities to expand their exposure through limited-edition prints, t-shirt designs, and potential sales of their original work.

The Port of Leonardtown Winery has pledged to donate 10% of the proceeds from bottle sales of the sparkling red to the St. Mary’s County Arts Council, reinforcing the partnership’s commitment to supporting the local arts community.

Voting for the label design contest runs from January 17 through January 31, giving the community a chance to make their voices heard in selecting the final design. This initiative not only celebrates the artistry of local talent but also brings together wine lovers and art enthusiasts for a shared cause.

Cast your vote for your favorite label and play a part in this unique collaboration between art and wine.


David M. Higgins II is an award-winning journalist passionate about uncovering the truth and telling compelling stories. Born in Baltimore and raised in Southern Maryland, he has lived in several East...

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