Best Wineries in Florida: A Guide to the Sunshine State’s Top Vineyards

Florida may be known for its beaches, theme parks, and sunny weather, but it also has a thriving wine industry. The Sunshine State is home to several wineries and vineyards that produce high-quality wines, making it a great destination for wine lovers.

Visiting wineries and vineyards is a great way to learn about the wine-making process and sample different types of wine. Many wineries offer tours and wine tastings, allowing you to experience the flavors and aromas of their wines. Florida’s wineries are located in different parts of the state, each with its own unique environment and atmosphere.

The Unique Flavors of Florida Wine

When you think of wine country, Florida might not be the first place that comes to mind, but the state has a growing number of wineries that produce unique and flavorful wines. From the rolling hills of Clermont to the beaches of the Gulf Coast, Florida’s wineries offer visitors a diverse and enjoyable experience.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Florida wine is the use of muscadine grapes, which are native to the southeastern United States. These grapes have a thick skin and a unique flavor that sets them apart from other grape varieties. Wineries such as Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards in Clermont specialize in producing wines made from muscadine grapes, including red, white, and blush varieties.

In addition to muscadine grapes, many Florida wineries also produce fruit wines made from local fruits such as blueberries, strawberries, and tropical fruits. These wines have a bright, fruity flavor that pairs well with spicy foods and desserts.

If you’re looking for a premium winery experience, check out San Sebastian Winery in St. Augustine. This winery produces a range of award-winning wines, including a sparkling wine made from Florida-grown muscadine grapes. You can also enjoy tastings, tours, and a restaurant on site.

For a more laid-back experience, head to Island Grove Wine Company in Hawthorne. This winery specializes in fruit wines made from blueberries and other local fruits. You can sample their wines and enjoy live music on their outdoor patio.

If you’re in the Miami area, be sure to visit Schnebly Redland’s Winery in Homestead. This winery produces wines made from tropical fruits such as mango and guava, as well as traditional grape wines. You can also enjoy their on-site restaurant and brewery.

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards (Clermont)

Florida, Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards in Clermont is located about 25 miles west of downtown Orlando. This winery sits on a 127-acre estate in the gently rolling countryside of Clermont, Florida. The area was once the center of the state’s grape industry, and Lakeridge Winery has been producing award-winning wines since it opened its doors in 1989.

Lakeridge Winery is known for its muscadine grapes, which are native to the southeastern United States and produce a unique, flavorful wine. The winery also produces fruit wines made from locally sourced fruits like blueberries, strawberries, and peaches. These wines are perfect for sipping on a hot Florida day or pairing with a meal.

When you visit Lakeridge Winery, you can take a guided tour of the vineyards and winery to learn about the wine-making process and the history of the winery. The tours are offered daily and last about 45 minutes. You can also participate in a wine tasting to sample some of the winery’s award-winning wines. Tastings are offered throughout the day and include a souvenir wine glass.

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music, food trucks, and festivals. Check their website for a calendar of upcoming events.

San Sebastian Winery (St. Augustine)

If you are looking for a friendly winery in St. Augustine, San Sebastian Winery is a great choice. Located in one of Henry Flagler’s old East Coast Railway buildings, this winery offers complimentary tours and wine tastings seven days a week.

San Sebastian Winery is known for its award-winning Florida wines, including the Reserva Rosa. During your visit, you can discover the art of winemaking through an audiovisual presentation, a guided tour, and wine tasting. The staff is knowledgeable and eager to share their passion for wine with you.

One of the unique features of San Sebastian Winery is their use of muscadine grapes. Muscadine grapes are native to Florida and are known for their sweet and fruity flavor. If you are a fan of muscadine wine, you will love the selection at San Sebastian Winery.

In addition to tastings, San Sebastian Winery offers a gift shop where you can purchase wine, accessories, and souvenirs. They also have a rooftop bar where you can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the beautiful views of St. Augustine.

Island Grove Wine Company (Hawthorne)

Island Grove Wine Company in Hawthorne, Florida is a friendly and welcoming winery. This winery is known for its delicious blueberry and strawberry wines, made with fresh fruit from their own plantations.

Island Grove Wine Company offers a wide variety of wines to choose from, including reds, whites, and sparkling wines. They also offer wine tastings, so you can try before you buy. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about their wines, and they are happy to answer any questions you may have.

One of the standout features of Island Grove Wine Company is their commitment to sustainability. They use environmentally friendly practices in their vineyards and winemaking process, and they even have a solar-powered tasting room.

If you’re looking for a unique gift, Island Grove Wine Company has you covered. They offer gift baskets and wine accessories, as well as custom labels for their bottles. And if you can’t make it to the winery, you can order their wines online.

Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Brewery (Homestead)

Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Brewery in Homestead is a family-owned and operated business produces some of the best wines in the state, crafted from tropical fruits grown right on their property in the Redland area.

At Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Brewery, you can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the beautiful surroundings. The winery features a spacious outdoor area where you can relax and unwind with friends and family. You can also take a tour of the winery and learn about the winemaking process.

In addition to their wines, Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Brewery also offers a selection of handcrafted beers. You can even try a flight of their beers to sample a variety of flavors. If you’re feeling hungry, the winery’s onsite restaurant serves up delicious dishes that pair perfectly with their wines and beers.

Overall, Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Brewery is a friendly and welcoming establishment that offers a unique and enjoyable winery experience in Homestead. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day out, you won’t be disappointed with a visit to this winery.

Keel & Curley Winery (Plant City)

Keel & Curley Winery in Plant City is a winery that offers unique and charming flavors. The winery was founded by a central Florida blueberry farmer who wanted to find a use for his end-of-crop blueberries. He started with 10 gallons of blueberry wine and improved each batch until he created the signature flavors that Keel & Curley Winery is known for today.

Keel & Curley Winery is a great place to try fruit wines. Their signature 100% blueberry wine is a must-try, and they also offer a variety of fruit fusion wines that are sure to please. You can taste and learn about six of their signature farm-fresh wines during an immersive wine tasting experience.

In addition to wine, Keel & Curley Winery also offers a farm-to-table dining experience. You can enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients at their on-site restaurant. They also have a brewery and offer agrarian ales and ciders under the Keel Farms Agrarian Ales and Ciders brand.

Keel & Curley Winery is open seven days a week, so there’s always a good time to visit.

Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery (Spring Hill)

Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery is a family-owned vineyard offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon with friends and family.

During harvest season, you can participate in grape-picking and learn about the winemaking process. The knowledgeable staff is always happy to share their passion for winemaking with visitors. You can also take a tour of the vineyard and learn about the history of the winery.

Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery offers a wide variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. You can enjoy a tasting flight to try a variety of wines and find your new favorite. The winery also has a lovely outdoor seating area where you can enjoy a glass of wine with a view of the vineyard.

Tangled Oaks Vineyard (Grandin)

Located at 1317 State Road 100, Tangled Oaks Vineyard is a family-owned winery friendly with great atmosphere and great wine that produces a variety of wines using grapes grown on their estate.

At Tangled Oaks Vineyard, you can enjoy complimentary wine tastings and tours of the winery. The staff is knowledgeable and always ready to answer any questions you may have about the wines or the winemaking process.

One of the unique things about Tangled Oaks Vineyard is their commitment to sustainability. They use environmentally-friendly practices in their vineyard and winery operations, and they even have a solar-powered irrigation system.

When it comes to their wine selection, Tangled Oaks Vineyard offers a range of options to suit all tastes. From dry reds to sweet whites, there’s something for everyone. Some of their most popular wines include the Muscadine, the Chardonnay, and the Cabernet Sauvignon.

Quantum Leap Winery (Orlando)

IQuantum Leap Winery is Florida’s only sustainable winery and is a great example of how businesses can operate in an environmentally conscious way.

The winery’s owners, Jill Ramsier and David Forrester, have combined their passion for wine with their commitment to the environment. They source their grapes from sustainable vineyards across the country and use eco-friendly packaging for their wines. Quantum Leap Winery also uses solar power to run its operations, making it a truly sustainable winery.

When you visit Quantum Leap Winery, you’ll have the opportunity to taste a variety of wines, including reds, whites, and blends. The winery also hosts events such as wine tastings, food pairings, and private events. If you’re planning a special event, Quantum Leap Winery is a great choice for a unique and sustainable venue.

Casa D’Vino Winery (Davenport)

If you’re looking for a friendly and cozy winery experience, Casa D’Vino Winery in Davenport should be on your list. This family-owned winery has been producing quality wines for over a decade and has become a favorite of locals and tourists alike.

At Casa D’Vino Winery, you can enjoy a variety of wines made from locally sourced fruits. Their most popular wines include blueberry, strawberry, and peach. You can also try their unique blends like the “Florida Sunset” and “Island Breeze”.

The winery offers tastings that allow you to sample their wines and learn about the winemaking process. You can also purchase bottles of your favorite wines to take home with you. The staff is knowledgeable and welcoming, making your experience at Casa D’Vino Winery a memorable one.

In addition to wine tastings, Casa D’Vino Winery also hosts events like live music nights and painting classes. You can also rent the winery for private events like weddings and corporate events.

Florida Orange Groves Winery (St. Petersburg)

If you’re a wine lover, you must visit the family-owned Florida Orange Groves Winery in St. Petersburg. This winery is one of the best in Florida, and it specializes in tropical fruit wines. The winery produces over 43 different varieties of tropical wines, and each of its flavored wines is made from 100% juice, never grape base, creating premium tropical wines with true fruit flavors.

Florida Orange Groves Winery has a rich history dating back to the early 1970s when it started shipping and packing fresh citrus in St. Petersburg, Florida. Today, it is a third-generation, family-owned, and operated winery that offers daily wine tastings and tours. The winery tour hours are Mon-Sat 10 am to 4 pm; Sun 12 pm -4 pm, while the tasting room hours are Mon-Sat 9 am – 5:30 pm; Sun 12 pm – 5 pm.

When you visit Florida Orange Groves Winery, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff who are passionate about their work and eager to share their knowledge with you. They’ll take you on a tour of the winery, explaining the wine-making process and the different types of wines they produce. You’ll also get a chance to taste some of their award-winning wines, including their popular Key Limen, Hurricane Class 5, and Mango Mamma wines.

In addition to wine tastings and tours, Florida Orange Groves Winery also has a wine club that you can join. As a member, you’ll receive monthly shipments of their latest wines, as well as discounts on purchases and exclusive access to members-only events.

Coastal Wine Boutique (St. Petersburg)

Coastal Wine Boutique is known for its impressive wine selection, which includes a variety of reds, whites, and fruit wines. You can sample some of their best wines by booking a tasting tour, which costs only $25 per person and includes five samples of their sumptuous wine, as well as a complimentary wine glass. Reservations are recommended, so be sure to book ahead to guarantee a spot, otherwise, you may be subjected to a long wait.

If you’re feeling peckish, Coastal Wine Boutique also has a restaurant that serves up an assortment of remarkable dishes. You can enjoy a delicious meal while sipping on some of the best wines in St. Petersburg.

True Blue Winery (Davenport)

True Blue Winery’s homemade wines are a must-try. They offer a variety of wines, including blueberry wines that are made from locally grown blueberries. If you’re a fan of blueberries, you’ll love the blueberry wines. They are sweet, fruity, and refreshing.

The bistro at True Blue Winery offers a great selection of food to pair with your wine. They serve oven-baked pizzas, salads, sandwiches, and more. If you’re looking for a light bite, the cheese plate is a great option. It comes with a selection of cheeses, crackers, and fruit.

True Blue Winery also offers blueberry picking during the blueberry season. It’s a fun activity for the whole family, and you get to take home fresh blueberries. If you’re planning a wedding, True Blue Winery is a great venue. They offer a beautiful outdoor setting with a gazebo and a pond.

Henscratch Farms Vineyard & Winery (Lake Placid)

Henscratch Farms is not just a winery; it’s also a working farm. They grow their own muscadine and scuppernong grapes, as well as strawberries and blueberries in season. You can even pick your own grapes during the harvest season.

The winery offers tastings of their wines, and you can purchase bottles to take home with you. Their wines are made from 100% Florida-grown grapes and are aged in oak barrels for a unique flavor.

In addition to their wines, Henscratch Farms also has a country store where you can purchase locally-made jams, jellies, and other treats. They even have their own free-range chickens and sell fresh eggs.

Royal Manor Winery (Lake Alfred)

One of the standout features of Royal Manor Winery is their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. They source their grapes from vineyards in Florida and Georgia, and their fruit wines are made with fresh, Florida-grown fruits. This commitment to using local ingredients not only supports the local economy but also ensures that the wines have a unique, Florida flavor.

In addition to their delicious wines, Royal Manor Winery offers a charming tasting room where you can sample their wines and learn about the winemaking process. The tasting room is open seven days a week, and the friendly staff is always happy to answer any questions you may have.

If you’re a fan of sweet wines, be sure to try their popular blueberry wine. It’s made with fresh, Florida-grown blueberries and has a sweet, fruity flavor that’s perfect for sipping on a hot Florida day.

Winery of Palm Beach (West Palm Beach)

The Winery of Palm Beach is located in a charming historic building that was once a train depot. The tasting room is cozy and inviting, with exposed brick walls and a rustic decor. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate about their wines, and they are happy to share their expertise with you.

One of the Winery of Palm Beach’s standout wines is their Mango Mamma, a sweet tropical wine made with fresh Florida mangoes. They also offer a variety of red, white, and rosé wines, as well as fruit wines like blueberry and strawberry.

In addition to wine tastings, the Winery of Palm Beach hosts events like paint and sip nights and live music performances. They also offer private event space for parties and gatherings.

Corkscrew Winery (Pompano Beach)

If you’re in Pompano Beach and looking for a friendly winery to visit, Corkscrew Winery is a great choice. This winery offers a cozy atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating options. You can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the beautiful Florida weather.

Corkscrew Winery offers a variety of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés. You can try a flight of wines to sample a few different varieties, or order a glass of your favorite. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions you may have about the wines.

If you’re feeling peckish, Corkscrew Winery also offers a selection of small bites to pair with your wine. You can enjoy a cheese plate, charcuterie board, or hummus and pita chips. The menu changes frequently, so there’s always something new to try.

Corkscrew Winery is located in Pompano Beach, making it a great option for beachgoers looking for a relaxing afternoon. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a fun activity, Corkscrew Winery is definitely worth a visit.

Sylvester Winery (Ocala)

Sylvester Winery in Ocala is a family-owned winery has been producing wine since 1999, and they offer a variety of delicious wines that are sure to please any palate.

One of the things that sets Sylvester Winery apart from other wineries in Florida is their commitment to using only the best grapes and ingredients in their wines. They source their grapes from some of the best vineyards in California, and they use only the finest oak barrels for aging their wines.

When you visit Sylvester Winery, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff who are passionate about wine and eager to share their knowledge with you. They offer tastings of their wines, as well as tours of the winery and vineyards.

In addition to their delicious wines, Sylvester Winery also offers a variety of events throughout the year, including live music, food pairings, and more. Be sure to check their website for upcoming events.