When people plan on visiting a winery, many think California, France, or even Australia. Few would ever imagine that one of the pioneer vineyards for table wines made from hybrid grapes could be found in Central Florida. Lakeridge winery located in the rolling hills of Claremont Florida is home to a seventy-seven acre vineyard, which produces some amazing wine from hybrid and Muscadines grapes and is the largest premium winery in Florida.

The winery is open 7 days a week and offers visitors a very pleasant free tour of the winery where guests learn how wine is made as well as a complimentary wine tasting where visitors can taste 5 or 6 varieties of white, red and sparkling wines before purchasing them from the gift shop at very reasonable prices (prices start around $8.00). The gift shop not only sells Lakeridge wine, but also fine foods, t-shirts and wine accessories such as bottle coolers, wine reference guides, and cork screws.

The grounds of the winery are always kept very tidy and there are picnic benches outside where visitors can have picnics on nice days. Aside from picnics, at various times throughout the year, Lakeridge holds various Arts and Crafts Festivals, Jazz Concerts, Harvest Festivals, and Grape Stompings. These family friendly events are usually either free or not more than a few dollars for entry and are guaranteed to be a great time for the entire family.

The next time you are in Central Florida, be sure to visit the winery at Lakeridge. The vineyard is a beautiful sight to see and the wine will render you speechless.