Wine Tours
Florida may be best known for beaches and sunshine, but it also has a varied wine scene shaped by muscadine grapes, hybrid varieties, and tropical fruit wines. A Florida wine tour can include vineyard views, winery tastings, food pairings, live entertainment, and, in some cases, guided transportation. Whether you are a dedicated wine lover or simply looking for a fun day trip, these regions offer memorable ways to sip and explore.
Before you go, check each winery or tour provider’s official website for current hours, tasting availability, reservation policies, and age requirements, as offerings may vary by date and season.
North Florida Vineyard Tours
- Destinations: Monticello Vineyards & Winery, San Sebastian Winery in St. Augustine
- Tour Highlights: Expect a mix of muscadine, fruit, and regional wines, along with tasting rooms, winery insights, and scenic historic-town settings.
- Planning Notes:
- San Sebastian Winery: A longtime St. Augustine favorite known for tastings and its rooftop bar when open.
- North Florida visits: Smaller wineries may offer limited tour times or seasonal events, so advance planning is a good idea.
Central Florida Wine Trails
- Destinations: Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, Whispering Oaks Winery
- Tour Highlights: Tour vineyard property, sample Florida-grown wines, and look for special events such as live music, festivals, or seasonal releases.
- Planning Notes:
- Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards: One of Florida’s best-known winery destinations, with tastings and tour options that may vary by date.
- From Orlando and nearby areas: Transportation-based wine outings are sometimes available through local tour companies, but routes and pickup points can change.
South Florida Urban Wineries
- Destinations: Schnebly Redland’s Winery and Miami-area tasting rooms and wine bars
- Tour Highlights: South Florida stands out for tropical fruit wines made from ingredients such as mango, lychee, guava, passion fruit, and avocado, along with tasting experiences that can differ from traditional grape-focused winery tours.
- Planning Notes:
- Schnebly Redland’s Winery: Known for its lush setting and distinctive tropical wine tastings.
- Miami-area outings: Some visitors pair a winery stop with nearby restaurants, breweries, or Redland farm experiences for a fuller day trip.
Florida Keys Wine Excursions
- Destinations: Waterfront wine bars, restaurant tasting events, and select sunset or dinner cruises in Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West
- Tour Highlights: The Keys are better known for curated wine lists, oceanfront pairings, and cruise-based experiences than for traditional vineyard tours.
- Planning Notes:
- Sunset and dinner cruises: Some excursions include wine service or optional beverage packages, with availability varying by operator.
- Wine tastings in the Keys: Look for chef dinners, tasting flights, and special events at restaurants and wine bars rather than standalone wineries.
Why Choose a Florida Wine Tour?
- Diverse Flavors: Florida wineries often feature muscadine, citrus, berry, and tropical fruit wines alongside more familiar styles.
- Scenic Settings: Tastings may take place in vineyard landscapes, garden courtyards, historic districts, or waterfront venues.
- Local Insight: Winery staff and guides can help explain Florida’s climate, growing conditions, and unusual winemaking traditions.
- Easy Day-Trip Appeal: Many wine experiences pair well with brunch, shopping, live music, or a weekend getaway.
Tips for a Memorable Wine Tour
- Bring a Valid ID: Tastings are typically limited to guests age 21 and older.
- Dress Comfortably: Casual clothing and comfortable shoes are best, especially for vineyard grounds or outdoor events.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water between tastings and consider eating before or during your outing.
- Reserve Ahead: Tours, tastings, and special events may require advance booking, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Travel Safely: Choose a guided tour with transportation, use a rideshare, or designate a driver if you plan to drink.
