Exploring the Wineries of Florida: A Sunshine State Wine Adventure
While Florida is best known for its stunning beaches, endless sunshine, and vibrant culture, the state also boasts a growing wine scene that is as unique as its diverse landscape. Florida's wineries offer everything from tropical fruit wines to traditional grape varietals, providing wine enthusiasts with a distinctive experience unlike anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned sommelier or just curious about tasting wines with a Florida twist, there's a winery for everyone. Join us as we explore the vineyards scattered across the state, each offering its own charm and flavor.
Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards
Located in Clermont, Lakeridge Winery is Florida’s largest premium winery. Known for its sprawling 127-acre vineyard, the winery specializes in Muscadine grapes, native to the Southeastern United States. Visitors can enjoy complimentary tours and tastings, where you'll learn about the winemaking process and get to sample award-winning wines such as their signature Southern Red and Pink Crescendo. The winery also hosts various events throughout the year, including grape stomps, wine and cheese festivals, and live music performances. Don't miss the picturesque views from the top of the vineyard that stretch for miles across the rolling hills of Central Florida.
Learn more: Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards
Schnebly Redland’s Winery
If you’re looking for something truly unique, Schnebly Redland’s Winery in Homestead should be your next stop. This winery crafts tropical fruit wines using lychee, mango, guava, passion fruit, and even avocado. Set amidst lush tropical gardens with waterfalls and koi ponds, Schnebly’s ambiance is just as enticing as its wine. You can take a tour, sample flights of their exotic wines, or enjoy a meal at The Redlander Restaurant. Their weekend events, including live music and wine tastings, make it the perfect place to relax and unwind in a tropical paradise.
Learn more: Schnebly Redland’s Winery
San Sebastian Winery
Located in historic St. Augustine, San Sebastian Winery is housed in a charming old railroad building. Specializing in Muscadine wines and premium table wines, San Sebastian is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. You can tour the facility and taste their popular Vintner’s Red, Blanc du Bois, and Port, which pair beautifully with local cheeses and chocolates. After your tasting, head up to their rooftop wine and jazz bar, The Cellar Upstairs, to enjoy live music and sweeping views of downtown St. Augustine.
Learn more: San Sebastian Winery
Rosa Fiorelli Winery & Vineyard
Nestled in the small town of Bradenton, Rosa Fiorelli Winery is a family-owned and operated vineyard that brings a slice of Italy to Florida. Established by Italian immigrants, the winery produces handcrafted wines using grapes grown on their 10-acre vineyard. From crisp whites to robust reds, every bottle reflects the family’s passion for winemaking. Visitors can enjoy an intimate tour, tasting, or even book a spot for their popular Wine Down Sunset event, where guests can sip wine while watching the sunset over the vineyard.
Learn more: Rosa Fiorelli Winery
Flagler Beachfront Winery
Located right on the beach, Flagler Beachfront Winery combines ocean views with great wine. Known for their fruit-infused wines and house-made sangrias, this boutique winery is perfect for casual sipping. The laid-back atmosphere invites you to unwind on their oceanfront patio as you sample their refreshing Peach Chardonnay or Blackberry Merlot. In addition to tastings, they offer wine slushies, making it the perfect stop on a hot Florida day. Flagler Beachfront Winery also hosts trivia nights, wine pairings, and live music, ensuring there's always something fun happening.
Learn more: Flagler Beachfront Winery
Keel & Curley Winery
Located in Plant City, Keel & Curley Winery is famous for its blueberry wines. The winery, which started as a small family farm, has grown into one of Florida's most popular destinations for wine lovers. Offering everything from sweet to dry blueberry wine, visitors can tour the vineyard, participate in wine tastings, and even take part in the annual blueberry festival. Keel & Curley also operates a brewery, Two Henrys Brewing Company, for those who want to mix their love of wine with craft beer.
Learn more: Keel & Curley Winery
Henscratch Farms Vineyard & Winery
If you’re in the mood for a rustic experience, Henscratch Farms in Lake Placid is a charming combination of vineyard, farm, and winery. The 18-acre estate is home to Muscadine grape vines, strawberry fields, and a free-range chicken farm (hence the name). Visitors are encouraged to pick their own strawberries, collect eggs, and, of course, sample the wines. From strawberry wines to Muscadine blends, this winery offers a taste of old Florida in every sip.
Learn more: Henscratch Farms Vineyard & Winery
Island Grove Wine Company
Set near the picturesque town of Hawthorne, Island Grove Wine Company specializes in organic blueberry wines. The winery sits on a large estate surrounded by organic blueberry fields, offering visitors a tranquil experience in nature. Their flagship wines include Blueberry Moscato and Blueberry Sangria, which are best enjoyed during a tour of the vineyards or a leisurely stroll through their gardens. Island Grove also prides itself on its sustainable practices, making it a must-visit for eco-conscious wine lovers.
Learn more: Island Grove Wine Company
Copp Winery & Brewery
For those seeking a diverse tasting experience, Copp Winery & Brewery in Crystal River offers the best of both worlds—wine and craft beer. They specialize in small-batch, handcrafted wines, including unique varietals like Elderberry Wine and Orange Spice Wine. Visitors can enjoy tastings in their cozy, pub-like tasting room, or relax on their outdoor patio with a cold pint of house-made beer. Whether you're a fan of wine or beer, Copp Winery’s warm and inviting atmosphere will make you feel right at home.
Learn more: Copp Winery & Brewery
Whispering Oaks Winery
Located in Oxford, Whispering Oaks Winery crafts all of their wines from Florida-grown blueberries. Their blueberry wines range from sweet to dry and pair beautifully with the gourmet meals served at their on-site bistro. The winery’s idyllic setting, surrounded by ancient oak trees, makes it a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon of wine tasting. Whispering Oaks also hosts farm-to-table dinners, offering guests a full culinary experience that pairs the best local food with their award-winning wines.
Learn more: Whispering Oaks Winery
The Gilded Grape Winery & Wine Bar
For those in Port Charlotte, The Gilded Grape Winery offers a welcoming atmosphere with a vast selection of house-made wines. Known for their custom-blended wines, this boutique winery allows guests to create their own wine with a personalized label. They offer tastings, wine-making classes, and special events such as paint-and-sip nights. It’s the perfect place for wine lovers looking to get creative and enjoy a glass of vino in a fun, relaxed setting.
Learn more: The Gilded Grape Winery
Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery
Situated in Spring Hill, Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery is a small, family-run vineyard producing handcrafted wines. Their portfolio includes traditional red and white wines, as well as Muscadine and fruit wines. With a cozy tasting room and an outdoor picnic area, visitors can savor their wine while taking in the beautiful vineyard views. Strong Tower also hosts seasonal events like grape stomps and harvest festivals, making it a great destination for a family outing or a romantic getaway.
Learn more: Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery
Ready to sip your way through the Sunshine State? Florida’s wineries offer a one-of-a-kind wine experience that celebrates local flavors, tropical fruits, and unique grape varietals. Whether you're a resident or visiting on vacation, these wineries are the perfect escape for a relaxing day trip. Grab a friend, pack a picnic, and start planning your Florida winery adventure today! Be sure to check out their websites for event schedules and tasting room hours. Cheers to discovering the best wines Florida has to offer!