Wine production is increasingly growing in population, with more wineries, wine tours and trails opening up across the country to appeal to both locals and travelers alike. Wine connoisseurs know that wine can taste differently depending on where it is produced, with factors like climate, soil, and fermentation all playing a key role in flavor. Known for the production of citrus fruits and native-to-state muscadine grapes, Florida offers a great selection of unique wine to taste. Here are the best wineries in the sunshine state to visit.
Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards
Central to Florida and just 25 miles west of Orlando sits Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards. With 127-acres on the estate, over 80 of which dedicated to vineyards, Lakeridge offers award-winning wines and incredible experiences. Visitors can enjoy the free wine tours offered daily, wine tasting, and the plentiful festivals and events held throughout the year. If you are looking for traditional wines made with muscadine grapes, Lakeridge is a must stop.
The Florida Winery
The Florida Winery is located in Madeira Beach, Florida. Visitors flock here for the upbeat, friendly environment and stay for the delicious fruit inspired wines and beachy vibe. All of the wines are made on location, and free tasting is offered to anyone who wishes to partake. Unique to The Florida Winery is house blend cigars, mead, and frozen Wine Freeze mixes. The Florida Winery is a perfect stop after a morning at the beach.
Schnebly Redland’s Winery
The beautiful property of Schnebly Redland’s Winery in Miami is home to lush vegetation, tiki huts, and wooden barrel tasting tables. Schnebly Redland’s is a fruit-only vineyard, offering a wide variety of specialty flavors from avocado wine to mango and passion fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tours, waterfalls, and can grab lunch or dinner at the on-site restaurant.
The Gilded Grape Winery
Have you ever made your own wine? Visit The Gilded Grape Winery in Charlotte Harbour and you can do just that! Atypical from the typical Florida winery, The Gilded Grape provides customers the chance to make their own wine from a variety of imported juices. The process takes up to two months, so if you have the time, it is an enjoyable and unique experience to partake in. If you in town for a short visit, pick up a few of the local’s favorites such as tangerine lemon and orange chocolate port.