Exploring the Wineries of Florida: A Journey Through Sunshine State Vintages
Florida’s beaches and oranges might be famous worldwide, but did you know the state has a flourishing wine scene? With a range of wines crafted from tropical fruits to classic grape varietals, the Sunshine State’s wineries provide a tasting adventure infused with local flavors and charm. Here’s your guide to some of Florida’s best wineries, each offering distinctive wines and welcoming settings, plus nearby spots to stay and dine that make planning your perfect vineyard trip a breeze.
Let’s start with Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards in Clermont, one of Florida’s largest and most scenic wineries, perched on a hill surrounded by rolling vineyards. Known for their muscadine wines, Lakeridge specializes in varieties that showcase the unique taste of Florida-grown grapes. The Southern Red and Southern White are must-try wines, capturing the rich, full-bodied flavors of Florida’s native muscadine. Visitors can enjoy daily tastings and guided tours that dive into the winemaking process, along with free weekend festivals featuring live music and food vendors. The tasting room offers a cozy atmosphere for sipping wine and learning about the winery’s history, while their on-site shop stocks local wines perfect for taking home a taste of Florida. To stay nearby, Hampton Inn & Suites Clermont provides a comfortable home base just minutes away, while Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Clermont offers modern amenities within close reach of the winery. After your visit, don’t miss Root & Branch Bistro, known for its Southern-inspired dishes crafted with locally-sourced ingredients, or The Crooked Spoon Gastropub, where inventive pub fare and craft beers are served in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Traveling south to the lush Redland region, you’ll find Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Brewery in Homestead. Schnebly’s is unlike any other winery, specializing in exotic fruit wines made from local tropical fruits like lychee, mango, and avocado. The winery’s stunning grounds are dotted with tiki-style architecture and waterfalls, creating a relaxing paradise for wine lovers. Schnebly’s wines are a true taste of Florida’s tropical side, with unique offerings like the Mango Dolce and Avovino that bring local flavors to life. Take a guided tour to learn about the production of both their wines and craft beers, also brewed on-site. On weekends, Schnebly’s hosts live music events, and their tasting flights allow you to sample the full range of tropical fruit wines, including the refreshing Lychee Sangria. Nearby, Hampton Inn & Suites Miami-South/Homestead offers a convenient and comfortable stay, while Courtyard by Marriott Miami Homestead provides a modern option close to the winery. Dine at Schnebly’s Redlander Restaurant, right on the winery grounds, where you can enjoy farm-to-table dishes that pair perfectly with the wines, or visit Royal Palm Grill & Deli for fresh seafood and local favorites.
For a truly rustic experience, head to Henscratch Farms Vineyard & Winery in Lake Placid. This charming farm winery lets you pick your own muscadine grapes and strawberries before heading into the tasting room to sample wines like “Sweetie” and “Back Porch Peach,” both light and refreshing options suited to Florida’s warm climate. Henscratch’s free-roaming chickens and country store add to the vineyard’s unique ambiance, and visitors can purchase jams, jellies, and wines to take home. Families will love the petting zoo, while kids delight in feeding the chickens that wander among the vines. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lake Placid offers a comfortable stay just a short drive from Henscratch, and Lake Grassy Inn & Suites provides quaint lakefront lodging. After a day at the vineyard, enjoy a hearty Southern meal at Cowpoke’s Watering Hole or fresh seafood at The Gator Shack—both are local favorites that showcase the flavors of the region.
In St. Augustine, San Sebastian Winery offers a beautiful blend of history and wine. This celebrated winery, established in 1996, specializes in muscadine and hybrid wines that capture Florida’s essence. San Sebastian’s award-winning wines, including the rich Castillo Red and refreshing Rosa, are available in their charming tasting room. Free guided tours reveal the history and process behind each wine, and their rooftop bar, The Cellar Upstairs, features live jazz and blues music with views of St. Augustine’s historic skyline. Stay in the heart of the city at Casa Monica Resort & Spa, an opulent hotel steeped in history, or the Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront, where elegant accommodations overlook Matanzas Bay. For a delicious meal, try The Columbia Restaurant, a staple in St. Augustine that offers traditional Spanish cuisine, or Catch 27, where locally-sourced seafood shines in unique, inventive dishes.
Nestled in Hawthorne, Island Grove Wine Company focuses on sustainable practices and Florida’s favorite fruit—the blueberry. Known for its award-winning Blueberry Moscato and Sorta Sweet Strawberry wines, Island Grove is an eco-friendly winery offering tastings in a garden setting surrounded by scenic walking paths and ponds. Visitors can tour the production facility to learn about their eco-conscious methods, then browse the gift shop for locally-made goods. Located nearby, Sweetwater Branch Inn in Gainesville is a charming bed-and-breakfast with a focus on comfort and Southern hospitality. For a more modern stay, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Gainesville offers convenient amenities and close proximity to Island Grove. Head to Civilization in Gainesville for globally-inspired, eco-conscious dining or try Blue Gill Quality Foods for a taste of fresh Southern cuisine.
From the traditional muscadine wines of San Sebastian to the tropical flavors at Schnebly Redland’s, Florida’s wineries present a variety of wine experiences that highlight the local climate, fruits, and winemaking innovation. Whether you’re after a classic vineyard tour or an exotic fruit wine tasting, Florida’s wineries offer something special for every palate. So grab a glass, relax, and enjoy a journey through Florida’s vibrant wine country.