| Exploring Florida's Wineries |
|
|
| February 14, 2008 |
|
A recent trip to Lakeridge Winery in Clermont opened my eyes to the abundance of vineyards and wineries that Florida nourishes.
Some sites grow their own muscadine grapes, while others import grapes to press and bottle new wines each year. Each location offers something special, served up in free tastings and daily tours.
We made a video of the Lakeridge experience, but I couldn't stop there -- not with so many more options sprinkled throughout the state.
Guided by the Florida Grape Growers Association, I've cobbled together this little guide to Florida's wineries. Whether you're epicurious, or just looking for an adventure, stop by for a sip during your next Sunshine State excursion. You'll be glad you did.
Chautauqua Vineyards
(364 Hugh Adams Rd., DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435)
Way up in the lovely Florida panhandle, Chautauqua produces wines from estate grown grapes, bottling everything from sweet muscadine to blueberry wine and grapeseed cooking oil.
Dakotah Winery and Vineyards
(14365 NW Highway 19, Chiefland, FL 32626)
Established in 1985, this family winery features 17 acres of vineyard, a large picnic area, Japanese Koi pond, underground wine cellar, and free tastings seven days a week.
Eden Vineyards and Winery
(19709 Little Lane, Alva, FL 33920)
Florida's oldest operating farm winery, Eden makes six distinct wines from fine bunch grapes developed by the University of Florida.
Emerald Coast Wine Cellars
(1708 Old Hwy 98 East, Destin, FL 32550)
Emerald Coast Wine Cellars offers wines made from native muscadines and blueberries, as well as sparkling juices like Orange Peach, Raspberry Citrus, Passion Fruit and Black Cherry.
Florida Orange Groves and Winery
(1500 Pasadena Ave. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33707)
I visited this winery with a friend many years ago, and was pleasantly surprised to find a rainbow of wines made from citrus fruits, berries, and even carrots. You have to taste it to believe it.
Henscratch Farms Vineyard and Winery
(980 Henscratch Rd., Lake Placid, FL 33852)
This central Florida farm winery grows muscadines and scuppernongs, as well as hydroponic strawberries and blueberries. Stock up on jams, jellies and wines at their country store.
Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards
(19239 US 27 North, Clermont, FL 34711)
This expansive Florida winery hosts daily tours and monthly special events. See my Expert Video for more details ...
Monticello Vineyards and Winery
(1211 Waukeenah Highway, Monticello, FL 32344)
Monticello's certified organic farm and vineyard produces 13 varieties of muscadine grapes that are processed and bottled on site in limited quantities.
Rosa Fiorelli Winery
(4250 CR 675, Bradenton, FL 34202)
Sicilian natives Rosa and Antonio Fiorelli craft fine wines, and invite visitors to pick their own fresh grapes from August through September.
San Sebastian Winery
(157 King Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084)
Lakeridge's sister winery in historic St. Augustine specializes in Cream Sherry and Port, and welcomes guests to its upstairs jazz bar.
Schnebly Redland's Winery
(30205 SW 217th Ave., Redland, FL 33030)
This tropical winery in Southern Florida features 96 acres of mango, carambola, passion fruit, guava and lychee used in the creation of unique fruit wines.
SeaBreeze Winery
(13201 Hutchison Blvd., Panama City Beach, FL 32407)
SeaBreeze Winery in Panama City Beach produces wines ranging from dry to sweet, including blueberry and blackberry varieties, muscadine wines, port and sherry.
Three Oaks Winery
(3348 Highway 79, Vernon, FL 32462)
The Three Oaks farm winery produces light, fruity reds and sweet white wines made from native Florida grapes. |
|
|
|
|
 Forward to Friend |
|
|
| A tempting display of San Sebastian port near Lakerdige Winery's tasting bar. |
| Credit: Mitzi Gordon, VISIT FLORIDA Smart Travel Expert |
|
|
|
|
