Wineries in Florida – A Free or Cheap Way to Get Happy

I spent all of this past weekend in Central Florida (Clermont, to be exact) as Frank was competing in an “Endurance Festival,” more commonly known as an Iron Man.  When we arrived on Friday, I spotted this.

 

It was just a few miles from our hotel!  Even though it was the day before Frank was to swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, and run 26.2 miles, I asked him if he wanted to do a tasting.  He said no.

I was shocked.  Mainly, because when Frank did his HALF-Iron Man, my husband thought it would be a good idea to visit a winery.  This one to be exact:

 

Now, Florida isn’t exactly known for its amazing climate to grow grapes.  That’s why Schnebly Redland’s Winery and Brewery in Homestead focuses on wines made from exotic fruit.  You can sample wines made from lychee, mango, even avocado!

 

A winery can be an expensive “exploration” or quite cheap.  If you go to Schneby’s before 6pm, like Frank did, you can avoid a $10 cover charge. Once you are inside, it’s just $9.95 for your choice of tasting (table wines or sparkling and dessert wines).

Now, Frank, being the awesome husband he is, brought back a bottle of Grand Reserve sparkling wine (priced at $29.95).  I have to say, I did not enjoy it terribly, and it reminded me of feet, but I was still happy he brought me back a treat.

As for Lakeridge Winery, their website tells me they have complimentary tastings, and tours, so that means I will have to check it out sometime when Frank isn’t in an endurance festival.  In the meantime, I'll try to visit one of the other 16 certified wineries here in the Sunshine State. 

Courtesy of Florida Grape Growers Association

 

Total Cost: $9.95 for a tasting at Schnebly Redland's Winery

Best Deal: Avoiding the $10 cover charge by arriving before 6pm on a Friday or Saturday

 

What’s the most unusual wine you’ve ever had?