Clearwater; Aspirations Winery Tour and Tasting Experience

A visit to Aspirations Winery in Clearwater offers a refreshing look at Florida’s emerging wine scene, well beyond the typical beaches and tourist spots. For about an hour, you’ll enjoy a guided tour, sample three 3-ounce wines of your choosing, and nibble on a meat and cheese plate. The experience centers on educating visitors about the winemaking process while offering a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere that welcomes children (though you must be 21+ to sip). At $40 per person, it’s a solid way to spend a short afternoon, especially if you’re curious about Florida’s wine credentials.

Two things we genuinely appreciate are the personalized wine selection—you choose your favorites—and the informative presentation that demystifies the winemaking process. It’s clear that Aspirations takes pride in their craft, winning accolades like Yelp’s Top Winery in Florida and recognition from House Beautiful. A potential downside? The tour’s brief duration might leave some craving more in-depth info or additional tasting options, but for most visitors, it’s a well-balanced experience. This tour suits those wanting a casual, educational outing or a unique addition to a visit to Clearwater.

Key Points

• Authentic Florida Wines: Sample a flight of three 3-ounce wines, all Florida-grown, with options to suit your palate.
• Educational & Engaging: Includes a presentation on winemaking, making the experience both fun and informative.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Children are welcome to attend without participating in tasting.
• Well-Reviewed & Recognized: Top-rated in Florida by Yelp, with accolades from House Beautiful.
• Convenient Location & Clear Directions: Off Access Road A, near Clearwater Toyota, with specific GPS tips.
• Value for the Experience: Price includes the wine, food, souvenir glass, and guided tour, making it a worthwhile short outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Location and Accessibility

Located within the Clearwater 19 Commerce Center, Aspirations Winery is a bit of a hidden gem. The address, 22041 US Hwy 19 N, can be tricky to find using GPS, so searching by the winery’s name tends to work best. The complex is a large industrial area, and access is via Access Road A—parallel to the Drew St entrance ramp to Hwy 19. We loved that the directions are clear once you know to look for the Pinellas County garage next to the Phillies Spring Training Facility. The coordinates (27.972755, -82.726822) help pinpoint the spot if you’re using a GPS app.

The winery’s location offers a purely local feel, away from tourist-heavy spots, adding charm and authenticity. It’s a short drive from Clearwater’s beaches, making it an easy addition to a day of sun and sand. The tour’s accessibility has been noted as a plus, with wheelchair access available.

The Experience: What to Expect

The tour begins with a warm welcome from the friendly staff, who introduce you to the winery’s story and approach. After settling in, you pick three wines from their Florida-grown collection—each served in a 3-ounce pour, enough to taste without feeling overwhelmed. The ability to choose your wines makes this experience adaptable to your preferences, whether you favor dry reds, crisp whites, or something in between.

While tasting, you can nibble on a meat and cheese plate that complements the wines perfectly. The food is simple but well-curated, providing just enough sustenance to enjoy alongside your drinks. As you sip, your guide walks you through the winemaking process, explaining their methods and bottling techniques. This educational component is a highlight, especially if you’re a beginner or simply curious about the craft.

The tour concludes with a behind-the-scenes look at the production room, where you see the winemaking equipment and process in action. The entire experience lasts about 45-60 minutes, making it an ideal stop for travelers short on time but eager for a taste of local craftsmanship.

The Wines and Food

Aspirations is celebrated for its Florida Fresh, Clean Wines. While the specific varieties you’ll sample may vary, reviews note the quality and freshness of their offerings. One visitor mentioned, “the wines were delicious, and I liked that I could pick my favorites,” which underscores the flexibility and quality.

The meat and cheese plate is straightforward but thoughtfully presented, with fresh accompaniments that enhance the tasting. It adds a casual, almost picnic-like element to the tour, encouraging conversation and relaxation.

The Guided Tour & Demo

The tour and demo are the heart of the experience. It’s not just about tasting but understanding what makes these wines special—locally sourced grapes, sustainable practices, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The guide’s explanations help demystify the process, making it accessible for novices and enthusiasts alike.

One review described the operation as “a well-run organization,” suggesting professionalism and care in each step. Another noted that it “wasn’t much to see but looked like they know what they’re doing,” which indicates that while the setting might be modest, the quality and authenticity shine through.

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Price and Value

At $40 per person, including the tasting, food, souvenir glass, and guided tour, the experience offers good value. It’s a short-but-satisfying outing that caters to those looking to add a bit of local flavor to their trip. The fact that you can reserve and pay later provides flexibility, especially useful if your plans are still forming.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy wine tastings with a local touch, those interested in learning about Florida wines, or families seeking a laid-back activity. It’s also a good choice for anyone who appreciates a personalized experience rather than large, crowded tours. If you’re in Clearwater and want a quick, informative, and tasty break, Aspirations Winery fits the bill.

For those curious about Florida’s emerging wine scene, Aspirations Winery offers a friendly, educational, and tasty experience. It’s less about grandeur and more about authenticity—sampling wines made nearby, learning about the process, and enjoying a relaxed setting.

The tasting flight paired with a cheese and meat plate makes for a delightful introduction to local wines, especially if you’re traveling with family or prefer a more intimate setting. While the experience might be brief, its quality and recognition make it a worthwhile stop.

If you’re seeking a fun, casual way to connect with Florida’s winemaking efforts and enjoy a sip or two in a family-friendly environment, this tour will serve you well.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome to attend but cannot participate in the tasting as guests must be 21 or older to sip alcohol. They can enjoy the surroundings and food.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes about 45 to 60 minutes, making it manageable even if you’re on a tight schedule.

Where exactly is the winery located?
It’s in the Clearwater 19 Commerce Center, accessible via Access Road A off Hwy 19. GPS works best if you search the winery’s name rather than the address.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the three 3-ounce wine flights of your choosing, a meat and cheese plate, a souvenir glass, and a guided tour with an explanation of the winemaking process.

Can I choose which wines I taste?
Yes, you pick three wines from their collection, allowing you to tailor the experience to your preferences.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

The Aspirations Winery Tour in Clearwater offers a genuine, approachable introduction to Florida’s wine scene—perfect for curious travelers, families, or anyone wanting a memorable short outing away from the beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby