Known for its hot climate, sandy beaches, and amusement parks, and rich viticulture history, Florida is one of the best vacation spots for a relaxing retreat in the sun. Florida’s wine history even predates California, another state that is renowned for its wine.
Looking for some world-class wineries to visit in Florida? We’ve compiled a list of the best wineries in Florida that you need to stop by.
What Wine Is Florida Known For?
Florida is most well-known for Blanc du Bois, Miss Blanc, and Sudwanee, as well as fruit wines.
Florida has a hot and humid climate, uneven rainfall, and relatively infertile soil, so it can be challenging to grow many grape varieties, particularly Vitis vinifera types.
After numerous years of trying to grow European grape varieties with little success, researchers at the University of Florida began to look into other grape varieties that better withstand Florida’s challenging climate.
iIn the 1930s, researchers created hybrid grape varieties from the family of Muscadine grapes (native to Southeastern America, including Florida), which are known for being robust and tough.
These grapes were crossed with Vitis rotundifolia varieties, resulting in grapes that were hardy, robust, and thick-skinned to tolerate Florida’s warm and humid weather.
There are now over 300 strains of Muscadine, all of which differ in sugar levels, acidity, flavor, skin color, tannins, and polyphenol. Muscadine grapes are used to create all types of wines, including medium- to full-bodied white wines and dry to sweet red whites.
They’re an incredibly versatile grape variety, so Florida wineries use them in all sorts of wine, even dessert-style ports, As mentioned earlier, Muscadine grapes also have the ability to endure the sunny and humid weather that Florida is famed for, which is why they are by far the most popular grape variety you’ll find in the state.
Top 10 Wineries in Florida
Without further ado, here are the best 10 wineries in Florida you need to stop by.
Best Wineries in Florida Map:
Schnebly Redland’s Winery: Taste of Miami
- Address: 30205 SW 217th Ave, Homestead, FL 33030
- Website: https://schneblywinery.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 305-242-1224
Schnebly Winery is one of the most popular wineries in Florida, and it’s hard not to see why. As soon as you walk through the majestic double doors of the winery, you’ll glance upon a grand courtyard with natural coral waterfalls, providing you with the ultimate setting for wine tasting.
The winery offers tours that will let you explore the breathtaking estate, all the while learning about the history of the company and its winemaking process. There’s also a restaurant that serves up an assortment of remarkable dishes if you’re feeling hungry.
Tastings cost $25 per person and include 5 samples of the winery’s 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.
Schnebly Winery hosts an extensive range of activities regularly, including game nights, karaoke nights, and live music. They can also accommodate private events like birthday parties, bridal showers, and weddings.
Editor’s Note: If you fancy a fruity wine like no other, opt for the winery’s Passion Fruit red wine. It has a delicious tangy, tart, and sweet taste.
San Sebastian Winery: Wonderful Weekends
- Address: 157 King Street, St. Augustine, FL
- Website: https://www.sansebastianwinery.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 904-826-1594
Situated in Henry Flagler’s East Coast Railway Building, a short distance away from downtown St. Augustine is the award-winning San Sebastian Winery. It’s renowned for being a pioneer of premium, sparkling, and dessert wines made from Muscadine grapes.
The winery also produces high-quality Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Petite Sirah, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Complimentary wine tastings and walking tours are available daily, allowing you to sample some of the winery’s most spectacular wines, while also exploring the picturesque grounds.
You can also view a short presentation in the winery’s upstairs theater to learn more about its wine production and winemaking methods.
Every weekend, San Sebastian Winery hosts remarkable live music at the upstairs bar and restaurant from a range of top-notch local and regional bands.
Sat atop the rooftops with views of the majestic St. Augustine skyline, you’ll be able to enjoy stellar music, delicious San Sebastian wine, and tasty light appetizers.
Editor’s Note: The winery’s Blanc De Fleur is a must-try, made in a traditional Methode Champenoise style. It has strong flavors of Muscadine with a hint of fruitiness and sweetness, alongside a refreshing bubbliness.
Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards: Vast and Beautiful Grounds
- Address: 19239 US-27, Clemont, FL 3471
- Website: https://www.lakeridgewinery.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 352-394-8627
Sat upon a vast 126-acre estate, Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards offers breathtaking grounds and a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy wine. The winery is primarily known for its premium and sparkling wines from native Muscadine grape varieties, including Carlos and Welder.
However, they also produce some Vinifera varieties like Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The extensive tasting room is open daily, stocking an array of wines for you to sample and taste. You can also enhance your tasting experience by going on a self-guided tour around the vineyards and grounds.
If you’d prefer a more intimate experience, Lakeland Winery & Vineyards also offers private tastings and tours, which are perfect for groups.
The winery really comes alive at weekends, offering fantastic live entertainment at their outdoor stage, delectable food from various food trucks, and plenty of scrumptious wine to go around.
So, bring some lawn chairs and listen to beautiful music, view gorgeous scenery, and indulge in some of the best wine you’ll find in Florida at Lakeland Winery & Vineyards!
Editor’s Note: The winery’s Blanc Du Bois has won many awards over the years, including double gold and ‘Best of Show’ for the 2017 edition.
Panama City Beach Winery: Great Private Tastings
- Address: 8730 Thomas Dr #1103B, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
- Website: https://panamacitybeachwinery.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 850-233-5950
Next up is the glorious Panama City Beach Winery, specializing in remarkable fruit wines made with 100% real fruit. Each one tastes exactly like the fruit it contains, resulting in a refreshing beverage that will have you downing glass after glass.
Open Monday to Saturday, the winery offers complimentary wine tastings of all its sublime wines. It also offers wine slushies, which are fantastic and delicious beverages to help you cool down in the Florida sun.
No reservations are needed, so you can drop by the winery at any point during its operating hours to sip on magnificent fruity wines. If you’re after a more intimate experience, you can also book out Panama City Beach Winery for private tastings, which also includes cheese, crackers, and a fruit tray.
Editor’s Note: Aged in oak for 2 years, you need to try the winery’s 2017 Barrel Selection Blackberry wine. It’s sublime!
Summer Crush Vineyard & Winery: Fantastic Fruit Wines
- Address: 4200 Johnston Rd, Fort Pierce, FL 34951
- Website: https://www.summercrushwine.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 772-460-0500
Summer Crush Vineyard & Winery offers spectacular wines and a lively atmosphere, just like its motto “good wines, good vibes, good times” suggests. The winery specializes in Muscadine and tropical fruit wines.
You’ll be able to sample all of the winery’s award-winning wines with a purchase of its souvenir glass for $8. Tours are also available for $10 per person, allowing you to learn more of the winery’s fascinating history and winemaking process.
Alongside tours and tastings, Summer Crush Winery puts on various bands on a regular basis, providing you with an exciting ambiance to sip wine in.
Editor’s Note: As this winery is known for its fantastic fruit wines, you need to try the Mangotiki wine, a sublime mango wine.
Florida Orange Groves Winery: Terrific Tropical Fruit Wines
- Address: 1500 Pasadena Ave S, South Pasadena, FL 33707
- Website: https://floridawine.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 727-347-4025
Florida Orange Groves Winery produces a wide range of high-quality tropical fruit wines, so if you enjoy sweet and fruity beverages, you definitely need to check out this Florida winery.
All of the winery’s wine is made 100% from the juice indicated on the label, ensuring they harbor the best flavors possible.
Open daily, the winery offers tastings of tours so you can sample mouthwatering wines and learn a bit more about how each one of them is made. There is also a delightful gift shop you can peruse to pick out some unique gifts for friends and family.
Editor’s Note: One of the winery’s best-selling wines is the divine Key Limen citrus wine. It has light, crisp, and semi-sweet flavor, with a refreshing scent of Florida key limes.
Chautauqua Winery: Exciting Events
- Address: 364 Hugh Adams Rd, Defuniak Springs, FL 32435
- Website: https://chautauquawinery.com/
- Contact Number: +1 850-892-5887
Located a short distance away from some of the most spectacular beaches in Florida, Chautauqua Winery boasts an enchanting atmosphere to relax and taste wine in. The vineyards are situated 12 miles from the actual winery and contain 50 acres of Carlos Muscadine and Noble Muscadine grapes.
Tastings are complimentary and are available every day during the winery’s operating hours. No reservations are necessary, so simply drop by whenever to sample up to 6 amazing wines. Your tasting attendant will happily talk you through each wine and answer any questions you have.
The cozy tasting room provides a view into the winery’s cellar, which will give you a deeper look into how Chautauqua makes its wines.
Events take place at the winery frequently, so be sure to check out the events calendar on your visit (don’t worry, they’re all wine themed!).
Editor’s Note: Made from estate-grown Carlos Muscadine wines, the winery’s 2020 Carlos Muscadine wine is one to look out for on your visit. It has a rich and fruity aroma with a full body.
Sparacia Witherell Family Winery & Vineyards: Stunning Estate
- Address: 21509 Snow Hill Rd, Brooksville, FL 34601
- Website: https://sparaciawitherellfamilywinery.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 352-650-8466
Next up is the stunning Sparacia Witherell Family Winery, a family-owned estate that makes some of the finest wines in Florida. Located in the historic city of Brooksville with views of scenic farmlands, the winery is situated 275 feet above sea level.
This brings in salty and refreshing breezes from the Gulf of Mexico, providing a tranquil atmosphere that’s reminiscent of relaxing at a sunny beach.
The winery offers complimentary wine tastings and has a delightful and welcoming tasting room. There is also an outdoor patio with surrounding views of the vineyards and farmlands, so you can enjoy your wine and marvel at the beautiful scenery
Editor’s Note: If you fancy a sweet, floral wine, you’ve got to try the winery’s Duet rose. It has a rich and floral aroma, with delicious flavors of cherry, raspberry, and a hint of strawberry.
Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery: Charming Veranda
- Address: 17810 Forge Dr, Spring Hill, FL 34610
- Website: http://www.strongtowervineyard.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 352-799-7612
Another top-quality winery in Florida is the spectacular Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery, who craft a wide range of tasty wines, including Southern Blanc, Ison, Norton, Carlos, and Pinot Noir.
The winery features scenic views, a gorgeous veranda, and welcoming tasting room. Tastings are complimentary, but you can also book out the estate for private party tastings and event gatherings.
If you’re interested in learning more about Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery wine making process, you can request a tour of its vineyard and processing room.
In addition to wine tastings, tours, and beautiful scenery, Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery hosts a range of events throughout the year, from yoga classes to “Evening at the Vineyard”, the latter of which includes a wondrous night of wine drinking and wood-fired pizzas under a starry sky.
Editor’s Note: Have a sweet tooth? Opt for the winery’s Strawberry port, rich in strawberry flavors with a delectable mocha-coffee finish.
Quantum Leap Winery: Modern Tasting Room
- Address: 1312 Wilfred Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
- Website: https://www.quantumleapwinery.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 407-730-3082
Last but not least is Quantum Leap Winery, featuring scrumptious wines and a modern tasting room to relax in. Inside the tasting room, you’ll be able to sample various wines and enjoy select cheese, charcuterie, and chocolate options.
Complimentary tours are available during operating hours (subject to staff availability), so if you want to discover and see more of the winery, definitely request one. The winery also offers private group tours, events, and tastings.
If you’re looking for a top-notch urban winery to visit, Quantum Leap Winery is a great choice.
Editor’s Note: The winery’s unique urban atmosphere makes for a great setting for private events like birthday parties and weddings. It’s sure to be an unforgettable day!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a great day out to spend with friends and family, you can’t go wrong with any of these best wineries in Florida. Not only do they produce some of the most scrumptious wine you’ll find in the state, but they also boast a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere.
If you’d rather sit and sip on wine at home, why not consider subscribing to a wine club such as Naked Wines, Bright Cellars, and Winc? This way, you can indulge in spectacular wines without needing to travel.
Nearby Wineries: