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New Vineyard Adds To Md. Wine-Making Industry

ROHRERSVILLE, Md. (AP) -- A new vineyard in Washington County is adding to Maryland's wine-making industry. 

Big Cork Vineyards said Tuesday it has begun cultivating 13 varieties of grapes on 22 acres near Rohrersville. 

Co-owner Dave Collins says the company plans to build a winery within two years and a tasting room within three. 

He says the vineyard will produce 5,000 cases of wine annually and employ 20 to 30 full and part-time workers. 

Maryland has 50 licensed wineries. 

The industry hopes to get a boost from a bill awaiting Gov. Martin O'Malley's signature that would allow direct shipping of wine to and from Maryland. 

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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