Central Florida may not be quite as well known for US wine production as some West Coast locales like California's Napa and Sonoma Valleys or Washington's Willamette Valley, but we do have a handful of excellent wineries and fruit wine producers here. One of the traditional wineries, Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards in Clermont, FL, has been a local institution for more than 25 years.

Wine lovers certainly have no problem indulging in their passion as part of the Central Florida active-adult lifestyle. The region has so many fun and funky wine bars, while the wineries always make for a great day trip. If you haven't been to Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards yet—or if it's just been a while—it's time for a visit.

About Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards 

Lakeridge has been a leader in Florida wine production since it first began operations back in 1989. It's the state's largest winery (and its sister San Sebastian Winery in St. Augustine is the state's second-largest). Nestled in Clermont's rolling hills, the estate covers 127 acres, which includes over 80 acres of planted vineyards. The winery has produced more than 100,000 cases—that's over 1 million bottles—and has received more than 600 winemaking awards and recognitions over the years.

Grapes and Wines at Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards

Lakeridge grows three types of Muscadine grapes and three hybrids in its vineyards. The former include one red (Noble) and two bronze (Carlos and Welder); the hybrids are Blanc Du Bois, Stover, and Suwannee grapes.

The winery produces 10 different wines:

  • Blanc Du Bois Reserve (white)
  • Chablis (Muscadine blend)
  • Pink Crescendo (pink sparkling wine)
  • Proprietor's Reserve (Muscadine blend dessert wine)
  • Southern Red (Noble red)
  • Southern White (white)
  • Stover Reserve (white)
  • Sunblush (blush Muscadine blend)
  • Cabernet Sauvignon (red)
  • Chardonnay (white)

Visiting Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards 

More than 160,000 people go to Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards each year. Free guided tours are offered every day from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (or from 11:00 am on Sundays), with one starting about every 30 minutes and the last one starting around 4:00. The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, with a 15-minute video kicking things off, and it includes a tasting. 

The winery's gift shop features wine and accessories, as you'd expect, but also has an interesting selection of fine olive oils, dressings, gourmet mustards, salsas, hot sauces, cheeses, crackers, picnic sets, shirts, hats, and more. They'll also assemble an amazing gift basket if you need to find a unique gift for a wine lover in your life. 

In addition, there are often festivals, concerts, and other special events going on at the winery. Whether or not there's a bonus event going on, Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards in Clermont is a fantastic place to spend the day and enjoy Central Florida living.