Things to see and do at Lakeridge Winery, Florida
Lakeridge Winery: Florida Wine Country Done Right
When you think of wine country, Florida probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But tucked in the rolling hills of Clermont, just outside Orlando, Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards is changing that perception one glass at a time. As Florida’s largest premium winery, Lakeridge is proof that good wine, great views, and a welcoming atmosphere don’t need to come from Napa.
A Vineyard With Vision
Lakeridge Winery opened its doors in 1989 with a bold idea: grow grapes in Florida’s hot, humid climate and turn them into quality wine. That idea paid off. Today, the 127-acre estate is home to acres of native muscadine grapes and hybrid varieties like Blanc Du Bois, specially cultivated to thrive in Florida soil. The winery produces over 100,000 cases annually and draws in more than 160,000 visitors a year. Lakeridge isn’t just a hidden gem — it’s a destination.
The Wine: Local, Bold, and Surprisingly Good
Lakeridge specializes in muscadine wines — a Southern staple — but don’t expect syrupy sweet bottles across the board. Yes, their bestsellers like Southern Red and Southern White lean semi-sweet, but they also offer dry and medium-bodied options that show off the versatility of the grapes. Wines like the Chablis-style Blanc Du Bois and the Proprietor’s Reserve Red (a dry red aged in oak barrels) are solid examples of how Florida wine can hold its own. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a full-on enthusiast, the tasting room has something worth trying — and at prices that won’t scare you off.
The Experience: More Than a Tasting Room
What makes Lakeridge special isn’t just the wine — it’s the experience. The property is set on gentle hills with rows of vines stretching into the distance. It feels more like Northern California than Central Florida. Free winery tours and tastings run seven days a week. The tour walks you through the winemaking process, from grape to bottle, and ends with a guided tasting of several wines. Staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and not the least bit pretentious — just the way wine should be.
Festivals and Live Music
Lakeridge knows how to throw an event. Their seasonal wine festivals draw thousands, offering food vendors, craft booths, grape stomping contests, and, of course, wine by the glass or bottle. On weekends, they host Weekends at the Winery, featuring local musicians and outdoor seating where you can kick back with a glass and a view. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly, and always laid-back.
Worth the Trip
Lakeridge Winery is only about 30 minutes west of Orlando, making it a perfect half-day escape from the theme park crowds. Whether you're a Florida native or just visiting, this is a side of the state that most people never see — rolling vineyards, handcrafted wines, and a slower pace that invites you to unwind. No gimmicks, no snobbery — just good wine and good vibes.
Thinking of visiting? Viator offers numerous tours in Florida. Click here for details. vi.me/0yyUX
For more information on wineries, distilleries, and craft breweries in the area visit https://flbwd.com
Entrance to Lakeridge Winery
Vineyard at Lakeridge Winery
Tasting room at Lakeridge Winery
Inside the fermenting area at Lakeridge Winery
Bandstand at Lakeridge Winery