3 Uniquely Floridian Wine Tasting Opportunities Near Sarasota and Bradenton

sIf thoughts of wine tasting events bring to mind the rolling hills of California, rest assured that Florida offers plenty of exceptional wine tasting opportunities. In fact, Fresh From Florida indicates that the state has more than 30 vineyards offering tours and wine tasting, with several varieties of grapes grown specifically for the subtropical climate.

In Sarasota and Bradenton, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to taste some of these locally grown wines. Whether you’re enjoying a night out with friends or fancy yourself a connoisseur of fine wine, Sarasota and Bradenton will not disappoint.

Just 13 miles from Springs at Braden River, Rosa Fiorelli boasts three vineyards it pulls from to create exceptional locally produced wines. The vineyard also imports vinifera grapes to add substance and flavor to its wines, giving them a distinct aroma and taste. Wine & Dine in the Vines is held monthly, providing the opportunity to enjoy fine wine tasting on an outdoor patio surrounded by the beautiful vineyards. You can also sign up for special tours, like the Italian Sub Lunch Tour or the Cheese and Cracker Tour, to enjoy wine tasting along with some food any time you visit.

Located in Midtown Plaza, Michael's Wine Cellar hosts Open House Wine Tastings from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on the first Saturday of every month. This event gives you the chance to discover a new favorite vintage and costs just $10 per person. You can show up without a reservation for the casual tasting. For a more formal experience, consider booking a Wine Dinner, where a visiting wine personality selects wines to go with a rotating dinner menu. Michael's Wine Cellar imports the top vintages from around the world.

Located about 40 minutes from our Bradenton locations and an hour from our Sarasota location, Florida Orange Groves Winery brings a distinctively Florida feel to the wine industry. With a tasting room open daily from 9 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Sundays, Florida Orange Groves Winery gives the chance to sample original tropical fruit wines in 43 different varieties, all of which are gluten-free. Popular flavors include the award-winning Mango Mamma and Key Lime. If you’re looking for something uniquely Floridian and a break from the grape wines you typically consume, this is the place to go.

Do you know of any other great places to sample local and international wines? Tell us more in the comments below!