Wine in St. Augustine: Top Places to Sip, Taste & Unwind on Your Trip

Where to Sip, Savor, and Soak in the Local Vibes

St. Augustine isn’t just Florida’s oldest city—it’s also home to a vibrant wine scene! If you’re a wine lover planning a visit, you’ll find plenty of charming places to enjoy wine in St. Augustine. From rooftop tastings and cozy wine bars to romantic carriage rides and seasonal festivals, here’s your guide to sipping your way through the city.

Here’s your ultimate guide to wine tasting, sipping, and pairing during your visit to St. Augustine.

🍇 Best Wine Spots in St. Augustine

San Sebastian Winery

• Must-do: Don’t miss their free wine tour and tasting—a great intro to Florida wines.

• Vibe: Rooftop bar with live music on weekends (The Cellar Upstairs) and a killer sunset view.

• Wine Tip: Try the Vintner’s Red or their award-winning Port.

Carrera Wine Cellar

• Must-do: Check out their self-serve wine stations—you can pour a taste, half-glass, or full glass.

• Vibe: Modern, sleek, and perfect for learning something new during a wine class or event.

• Wine Tip: Great place to discover small-batch and international wines you won’t find elsewhere.

Casa de Vino 57

• Must-do: Enjoy a flight in their charming outdoor courtyard.

• Vibe: Hidden-gem wine garden with a cozy, relaxed feel just off King Street.

• Wine Tip: Ask the staff for a recommendation—they love finding the right wine for your taste.

Bin 39 Wine Bar

• Must-do: Sip a curated flight on the wraparound porch of the historic St. George Inn.

• Vibe: Intimate, elegant, and perfect for date nights or quiet evenings.

• Wine Tip: Known for West Coast varietals and sparkling wines.

🐴🍷 Wine & Carriage Rides in the Historic District

What’s more romantic than sipping wine as you ride through cobblestone streets in a horse-drawn carriage? St. Augustine offers several wine and carriage experiences that blend history with indulgence.

Top Providers for Wine & Carriage Tours

• The Tasting Tours – Includes a bottle of wine, friendly guides, and a lovely route.

• Country Carriages – Classic carriages with knowledgeable drivers and charming horses.

• St. Augustine Horse & Carriage – Personalized routes and helpful guides.

• Coastal Carriages – Best enjoyed at night under twinkling city lights.

Insider Tips:

• Book ahead, especially on weekends.

• Evening rides feel magical, but day tours are great for sightseeing.

• Dress comfortably and bring a jacket just in case.

• Let them know if you’re celebrating a special occasion—they love to personalize!

• Check their policies on drinks and cancellations before booking.

🧀 What to Eat with Your Wine

Looking for the perfect pairing? These local bites go beautifully with your wine selections:

• 🐟 Seafood (like shrimp or scallops): Pair with a Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay.

• 🍗 Tapas and small bites: Go for a Pinot Noir or GSM blend (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre).

• 🍰 Desserts like pecan pie or chocolate torte: Pair with San Sebastian’s Port or a sweet red.

🛍️ Where to Buy Wine & Gifts

Want to take the experience home? Here’s where to stock up:

• San Sebastian Winery Gift Shop – Wines, accessories, and souvenirs.

• The Gifted Cork & Gourmet – Tastings, unique wine-themed gifts, and local finds.

• St. Augustine Amphitheater Farmers Market (Saturdays) – Local vendors often carry wine-friendly snacks and pairings.

📅 Wine Events to Add to Your Calendar

• St. Augustine Food & Wine Festival (Spring): Tastings, chef demos, and wine from all over.

• Holiday Regatta of Lights (December): Cozy up at a wine bar and watch the festive boats go by.

💡 Wine Tips for Your St. Augustine Adventure

• 🥤 Stay hydrated—Florida sun + wine = sneaky dehydration.

• 🚶‍♀️ Walk or take the trolley—many wine stops are in the historic district.

• 🧠 Ask questions—most wine bar staff are passionate and knowledgeable.

• 🍷 Try local wines—Florida wines are often on the sweeter side, but give them a try. You might be surprised!

🥴 What to Do If Your Wine Tastes Off

Yes, it happens. Here’s how to handle it like a pro:

If You’re at a Restaurant:

1. Speak up! The tasting pour is for checking flaws, not personal preference.

2. Common faults:

   • Smells like wet cardboard? Probably corked.

   • Tastes flat or sour? May be oxidized.

   • Fizzy when it shouldn’t be? Could be fermenting.

3. Say politely: “This tastes a bit off—can you take a look?”

4. Don’t stress it—restaurants expect the occasional flawed bottle.

If You’re at Home:

1. Let it breathe—sometimes it just needs air.

2. Use an aerator or decanter for young reds.

3. Still bad? Return it. Most retailers will refund or exchange.

4. Keep the bottle and receipt as proof.

Bonus Tip: Trust your palate

It’s okay not to love a wine, but there’s a difference between “not my style” and “this is flawed.” Don’t hesitate to ask someone who knows wine to help you decide.