San Sebastian Winery & St Augustine Distillery

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of history, flavor, and fun, then a visit to San Sebastian Winery and St. Augustine Distillery should be high on your travel list. Tucked away in the heart of the nation’s oldest city, these two spots serve up more than just great wine and spirits—they offer a taste of local culture, a dash of charm, and a whole lot of good vibes. Whether you’re sipping wine on a rooftop overlooking St. Augustine or sampling small-batch bourbon made right on-site, these places make for a deliciously memorable stop on any Florida getaway. Let’s explore San Sebastian Winery & St Augustine Distillery.

First Stop… Exploring the Charm of San Sebastian Winery

Located in the heart of America’s oldest city, this spot offers free wine tastings, rooftop views, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Steeped in tradition and bursting with local flavor, San Sebastian Winery isn’t your average wine-tasting spot. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking to enjoy a relaxing afternoon with friends, the winery offers a delightful mix of handcrafted wines that showcase the best of Florida’s winemaking heritage. As you sip on a glass of their signature blend, you can almost taste the history of St. Augustine and the passion behind every bottle.

First, Some History

Begin your tour by watching a short video about the history of the winery. Also, learn about the types of grapes that make up these delicious wines.

Now, Peek at the Winery.

Next, enjoy a tour of the winery. Learn about the barrels the wine is aged in.

As well as the wine making process.

Next, Head to the Tasting Bar.

What we’ve all been waiting for!

The winery gives you a list of all the wines they produce. As you taste the wines they’ve selected for you, make notes on which you liked.

We had a fun group that were laughing and by the end we were clinking glasses and saying “Cheers!”

Why Visit San Sebastian Winery?

FREE Wine Tastings! Yep, you heard that right! Sample a variety of locally crafted Florida wines, from crisp whites to bold reds.

The Cellar Upstairs: Their rooftop wine bar serves delicious wines, sangria, and light bites, with live music on weekends. Talk about a vibe!

Authentic Wine Tasting Experience: Enjoy tours and tastings that cater to both newbies and seasoned wine lovers.

Local Flavor: Discover wines made from locally sourced ingredients, giving you a true taste of Florida.

Historic Ambiance: Immerse yourself in the history of one of America’s oldest cities, where old-world charm meets modern relaxation.

Take a trolley tour! Many St. Augustine tours stop here, making it easy to enjoy without worrying about parking.

Relaxing Atmosphere: The winery’s casual and inviting environment is perfect for a leisurely day out.

Travel Tips for Your Visit

Plan Ahead: Check their website for upcoming events and tasting sessions. Booking in advance can help you secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

Go Shopping: Both locations have wonderful gift shops. Buy a few bottles of your favorites. They both also have gift items like bar accessories, glasses, and souvenirs.

Explore St. Augustine: After your wine tasting, take a stroll through the historic streets of St. Augustine. There are plenty of local eateries, boutiques, and scenic spots to explore.

Savor the Local Cuisine: Pair your wine with some local snacks or enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants. The combination of fine wine and fresh, local food is truly a culinary delight.

San Sebastian Winery

157 King St

St. Augustine, FL 32084

Next stop, St Augustine Distillery

Nestled in the heart of historic St. Augustine, Florida, the St. Augustine Distillery offers a unique experience for both spirit enthusiasts and casual visitors. Housed in a beautifully restored ice plant from the early 1900s, this locally owned distillery has been crafting award-winning spirits since 2013.

Free Tours and Tastings

One of the highlights of visiting the St. Augustine Distillery is their complimentary self-guided tours, available daily from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM. (check these times) During these tours, you’ll learn about the distillation process and the history behind their premium products.

Join me on my tour…

First stop is learning about the history of the distillery.

And how the spirits are made.

Let’s do some tastings!

First we tried a Florida Mule, made with their Florida Cane Vodka.

Next, we had a Gin & Tonic, made with St Augustine Distillery Gin and their Essential Tonic mix. I was surprised that I liked this drink so much because I don’t usually like gin.

Then we tried a Rum Tiki, which is made of their Distillery Rum and their Tiki mix. It was delicious and immediately made me want to recreate this on the boat this summer.

Finally, the last tasting was an Old Fashioned. I didn’t love this one, but only because I am not a fan of bourbon.

Tips for Your Visit

Timing: While self-guided tours don’t require reservations, arriving earlier in the day can help you avoid potential crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Purchases: After your tour, visit the on-site gift shop to purchase your favorite spirits and unique mixers. These make for excellent souvenirs or gifts for friends and family.

Local Dining: Consider pairing your distillery visit with a meal at a nearby restaurant. The area boasts a variety of dining options that complement the distillery experience.

Age Restriction: While all ages are welcome on the tours, you obviously must be 21 or older to participate in the tastings.

The St. Augustine Distillery

112 Riberia Street

St. Augustine, Florida 32084