LEONARDTOWN, Md. — Bernard Matus has been named the winner of the first annual Port of Leonardtown Winery label design contest, hosted in partnership with the St. Mary’s County Arts Council (SMCAC). His winning design will appear on a limited-edition sparkling red wine, set to be released in June 2025 in celebration of the winery’s 15th anniversary.
“The winery is set to celebrate the 15th anniversary of their tasting room, and this competition not only creates a unique art label, but it also supports the SMCAC and its programming,” the Arts Council said in a statement.
The call for submissions opened in late 2024, inviting artists to capture the essence of the winery’s first-ever sparkling red variety. A total of 46 entries were received from artists across Southern Maryland. A panel of winery staff and Arts Council representatives selected the top three designs, which were then put to a public vote. More than 800 votes were cast online.
“As the first-place winner, Bernie’s design will appear on the special anniversary wine bottle, and he will receive a $500 cash prize,” the Arts Council stated. “Mr. Matus will attend the winery’s upcoming release celebration, scheduled for First Friday, June 6, to sign bottles and chat with guests.”
The Port of Leonardtown Winery will donate 10% of sales from the limited-edition wine to the SMCAC, supporting community art-related events, scholarships for high school students, and other programs. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase limited-edition prints, framed artwork, and other items to further support the Arts Council’s fundraising efforts.
Matus, a retired public educator, has been involved in the arts for decades. His work has been exhibited at shows across the East Coast and is included in both private and permanent collections from New York to Florida. In recent years, he has showcased his art locally at venues including the Community Bank of the Chesapeake and MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital.
The Arts Council also recognized second-place winner Cynthia Martin-Brennan and third-place winner Lo Hill for their submissions.
Two special events are planned in June to celebrate the contest and the winery’s milestone anniversary:
- Thursday, June 5 – A fundraiser for the St. Mary’s County Arts Council from 6-9 p.m., with VIP hours from 6-7 p.m. (ticketed event)
- Friday, June 6 – Port of Leonardtown Winery’s 15th Anniversary and Wine Release Celebration
For more information and event updates, visit the Port of Leonardtown Winery and St. Mary’s County Arts Council websites.
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Beautiful! Now I just have to figure out if I like them better with the bottle full or after I empty them.