Experienced by LEEANN BRZOZOWSKI
Wine festivals can be a cool and fun departure from the norm since they center around a myriad of themes from music to food and culture. At wine festivals you receive a constellation of tasting from various culinary products all in one sitting. Since I had the 2016 Acura TLX in for the week I thought what better time unearthing a newfangled weekend destination to recommend our readers this summer.
Linganore Winecellars, run by the sons of the original founder of 1972, is located roughly an hour and a half outside of Washington, DC in Mt. Airy, MD. As I toured through the region’s rolling hills, abundant farmlands and corn fields I realized how this was a good distance to cruise in one of the most comfortable driver’s seat that I have captained thus far. An A+ is in order for this category. Furthermore, the Acura TLX’s ease of handling compliments a plush and ergonomic cockpit while expressing itself with fervor from the power under the hood and its confident connection to the road. It was a pleasure to simultaneously experience the accouterments of the TLX while discovering weekend highlights this ballyhooed Maryland vineyard had in store.
The optional Tech Package in the TLX boasted a state-of-the-art navigation system with keen voice recognition, Blind Spot Detection, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Keeping Assist which pushes the vehicle back between the lines if you begin to drift without using signal indicators. I’m a strong supporter of preventive safety amenities and technologies. There is also a parking feature that alerted me when people or other cars crossed my rear as I searched for a space on the winery’s lawn.
Linganore Winecellars offers a wide assortment of labels and almost as large a selection of fiestas to enjoy. I attended the Caribbean Wine Festival and it was a sold out event with well over 1,000 people in an open field of fine cuisine, grape inspired libations and live music. Happenings at Linganore are decidedly unique and stand out from others I have attended since here the activity is more about fellowship, friends and vibing with new acquaintances than the actual wine offerings.
Similarly, although the TLX sits in a class of luxury, its disposition is entrusted in the hands of consumers experiencing the Japanese sedan in comparison to what outsiders may think. Specifically those that own German brands. Acura has designed an extremely intelligent and responsive car while maintaining an elegant coolness and drivability that makes it worth the weighty price tag.
Acura TLX 3.5L SH-AWD ADV
- MSRP: $44,800 ($45,720 as tested)
- Power: 3.5-liter V6 with 290-horsepower
- Transmission: 9-speed Automatic
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
- Fuel Economy (mpg): 21 city / 31 hwy
Linganore Festival Check List:
13601 Glissans Mill Road
Mt. Airy, MD
- Good friends
- 10×10 tent and chairs
- Food, snacks and non-wine beverages in a cooler
- A fan (battery-powered)
- Comfortable shoes
- An Acura!
Whether attending a fair or just taking a quick jaunt to the winery to purchase a vintage, there is always something transpiring at Linganore from “Music on the Patio” Friday nights and Sunday afternoons to monthly wine and food pairings. For summer travel and entertainment ideas please view the copious amounts of celebrations at www.linganorewines.com. You will certainly enjoy the festive atmosphere and hopefully the drive over!
