Having just got back from THE most amazing wine tasting tour of Napa, California, it made me wonder whether there are any places that host wine/beer tastings local to Orlando. You will be pleased to know that there are! Several, in fact. Of course, Florida cannot compete with the rolling hills, verdant vineyards or the quaint eateries that only the wine country has to offer. But, you definitely can find some decent wines to taste. All in a comfortable setting, whilst enjoying some tasty food. You could even take some back to your rental villa to enjoy whilst lying beside the pool. So, take a break from the theme parks and let your taste buds have some fun.
Wine Tasting
Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards
19239 US-27, Clermont, FL 34715
The winery originally opened in 1989 and grows a variety of grapes. They produce an assortment of wines from dry to very sweet. Live entertainment is provided every Saturday and Sunday from noon – 4pm. The Crooked Cow Creamery is on hand to serve ice cream for the kids.
Take a self guided walking tour of the winery. You can wander round then taste a selection of their wines. These run from 10am-5pm every Saturday and Sunday. (21+ only. Proof of ID required) There is a shop selling souvenirs, gifts and (of course) wine.
Quantum Leap Winery
1312 Wilfred Drive, Orlando, FL 32803
Take a visit to the winery and sample wines from the world’s premier growing regions. There is a shop where you can purchase art, merchandise and of course wine. Enjoy cheese and charcuterie plates or chocolate options while you learn more about wine in their tasting room.
- Tasting Room Summer Hours
- Tuesday-Friday 12 pm – 7pm. Saturday 12pm – 7pm*
* Early closing occasionally for private events
Island Grove Wine Company
3011 Formosa Gardens Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34747
Visit Kissimmee’s newest treasure located in the heart of the Walt Disney World® area. They serve award-winning fruit wines, traditional wines of international origins and craft beers. Additionally, they have a small bistro serving freshly made breads, pastries and artisanal food. Many of their ingredients are sourced from their 8 acres of sustainable gardens. They even have their own apiary (bees!).
Whilst they specialize in fruit wines, they have a vast array of traditional grape wines to taste. The craft beers are sourced locally to highlight Florida’s diverse and specialized micro-brewery industry. Alternatively, if tasting alcohol isn’t your thing, then why not indulge in a tasting of specialty teas?
Their ethos is one of care for the planet, care for people, return the surplus to the earth. Pay them a visit and see what all the ‘buzz’ is about.
The Open Container Bar
4951 International Drive, Unit 142
(Located at Orlando International Premium Outlets)
This great little ‘booth’ is the perfect remedy for anyone who hates shopping. Park yourself at the bar and order a cold beer, chilled margarita or ask for a wine tasting experience. For example, you will be served 5 different wines and will get an education about where they’re from and why they taste the way they do.
Bevfly Wine Outlet
5425 International Drive
Great little wine bar where you can purchase wines as well as order their wine tasting selection. The hosts will walk you through the different varietals, explaining country of origin, complexities and longevity,. You will leave better informed to make the perfect purchase.
Swirlery
1508 E Michigan St, Orlando, FL 32806
Cute little wine bar where they serve wine, beer, food and a selection of gifts for purchase. Take a seat at the natural wood bar and order a glass or two of wine with some tasty nibbles. Alternatively, attend one of their blind tastings and see if you know your stuff.
Tim’s Wine Market
428 Main St, Windermere, FL 34786
This wine market is a little off the beaten track in Downtown Windermere and has been a local favourite for years. Wines can be purchased by the bottle or case and there are regular wine tastings. It’s a small store so every bottle has been specially selected by the owners.
Beer Tasting and Tour
Crooked Can Brewing Company
426 W Plant St, Winter Garden, FL 34787
Opened in 2014, The Crooked Can Brewing Company has gone from strength to strength. It is located in Plant Street Market, in the heart of Winter Garden. Their wide selection of beers, brewed on-site, is sure to please any beer aficionado.
There are different types of food vendors and stores, including an award winning butchers. Indoor and outdoor seating is provided. Live music, special events plus beer tours and tastings are available. Wine, cider and alcoholic seltzer are offered. Soft drinks can be bought from the market vendors.
Orlando Brewing Company
1301 Atlanta Ave, Orlando, FL 32806
Originally opened just after the turn of the century on Gore St, but now on Atlanta Avenue, their beers are brewed in accordance with the German Purity Law of 1516. They are also organic. They have an amazing tour, music events, Zumba, art, trivia and more.
The Beer Spa
11787 International Dr. Ste 106, Orlando FL 32821
Do you love beer and relaxing? Then you will love the Beer Spa. Firstly, it is a brand new spa experience in Orlando, where beer is the star. They offer private spa rooms, with soaking thermal tubs featuring a signature Beer Treatment.
Secondly, each room includes an infrared sauna, a hay lounge, a private bathroom and your very own beer tap! Lastly, and most importantly, complimentary self-serve beer is included in your reservation. My Beer Spa in Orlando is a beer lover’s dream come true.
Dead Lizard Brewing
4507 36th St, Bldg C, Orlando, Florida 32811
Dead Lizard Brewing is a family owned and operated craft brewery in Orlando. It has a nice outdoor seating area and serves food and non-alcoholic drinks. Why not try a tasting tour of their operation?
Castle Church Brewing Community
6820 Hoffner Ave, Ste 1, Orlando, FL 32822
Ever wanted to attend church whilst having a nice pint? Well, now you can. Their description of themselves is “Christianity for the rest of us – a safe place to explore, ask questions, contemplate and grow”. Brewery tours are available.
Ellipsis Brewing
7500 TPC Blvd, Suite 8, Orlando, FL32822
Conveniently located close to the airport, so if you didn’t manage to visit during your vacation, you can squeeze in a quick pint on the way home! Great selection of beers and space for the kids to play and be amused too.
Broken Strings Brewing
1012 West Church St, Orlando, FL 32805
Located in the center of Downtown Orlando, this brew house is run by a third generation brewer. His family have been in the industry for over a century. There is always something to do here: open mic comedy, live music, paint nights and food events.
