San Sebastian Winery Tour & Tasting – St. Augustine, Florida

Discover the San Sebastian Winery Tour & Tasting in Florida

Set in a beautifully restored 1920s East Coast Railway building, the San Sebastian Winery in St. Augustine, Florida, offers one of the state’s most popular wine experiences. Visitors can explore how Florida’s signature muscadine and hybrid grapes are transformed into award-winning wines — and enjoy complimentary tastings along the way.

The guided winery tour leads guests through the entire winemaking process, from fermentation to bottling, while knowledgeable hosts explain the art of producing quality wine in Florida’s warm climate. The experience ends with a visit to the tasting room and a rooftop stop at The Cellar Upstairs Wine, Jazz & Blues Bar, featuring live music and city views.

Why it’s special: San Sebastian is not only one of Florida’s most historic wineries but also part of the Lakeridge Winery family, pioneers of modern Florida winemaking. The combination of history, craftsmanship, and free tastings makes this a must-visit attraction in America’s oldest city.

History of San Sebastian Winery

San Sebastian Winery opened in 1996 as the sister property of Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards in Clermont. Housed in one of St. Augustine’s most historic industrial buildings, the winery celebrates the legacy of Florida’s grape-growing traditions, which date back to the 1500s.

Under the guidance of winemaker Charles Cox, San Sebastian produces over a dozen varieties, including Blanc Du Bois, Muscadine, Port, and Cabernet Sauvignon, made from both local and imported grapes. The winery has won hundreds of awards for innovation in warm-climate winemaking while maintaining its local, welcoming charm.

What You’ll See & Do on the San Sebastian Winery Tour

• Take a guided walking tour through the fermentation tanks, bottling area, and cellars.

• Learn how Florida-grown muscadine and hybrid grapes are crushed and crafted into distinct wines.

• Enjoy a complimentary wine tasting of dry, sweet, and dessert wines.

• Visit the wine shop and browse exclusive limited-edition bottles and gift items.

• Head upstairs to The Cellar Upstairs, a rooftop wine bar with live jazz and light bites.

Hands-On Elements: Guided tastings, seasonal events, and live music experiences.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography welcome throughout the facility and rooftop areas.
Souvenirs & Extras: Gift shop with bottled wines, accessories, and local gourmet items.

Pricing of the San Sebastian Winery Tour

• Admission: Free (includes guided tour and tasting)

• Private & Group Tours: Free; reservations required for 10+ guests

• Special Events: Seasonal pairing dinners and rooftop concerts (paid entry)

Practical Info for Visiting San Sebastian Winery

Duration: 45–60 minutes
Format: Guided walking tour and tasting
Schedule & Seasonality: Open daily, with tours every 20–25 minutes; closed major holidays
Audience: Adults 21+, couples, wine lovers, and history enthusiasts
Accessibility: Fully accessible facility with elevator access and restrooms
Safety & Restrictions: Must be 21+ for tastings; children welcome on tour with supervision
Languages: English; printed guides available in Spanish and French
Group & School Visits: Adult group tours by reservation; school groups not permitted due to alcohol production
What to Bring/Wear: Valid photo ID and comfortable shoes
Facilities: Tasting room, rooftop bar, gift shop, restrooms, and parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter

Nearby

• Lightner Museum – Art and antiques in a historic hotel across the street.

• Flagler College – Stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture and guided tours.

• Castillo de San Marcos – The city’s iconic 17th-century Spanish fort.

FAQs About Visiting San Sebastian Winery

Is the tour free?
Yes — tours and tastings are completely free and offered multiple times daily.

Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are not required for individuals but are recommended for groups of 10 or more.

What wines can I taste?
Guests sample a selection of red, white, and dessert wines, including local muscadine varieties and premium dry blends.

Is it family-friendly?
Yes, families are welcome; however, only visitors 21 and over may participate in tastings.

Can I buy wine to take home?
Yes, the gift shop offers all house-made wines along with accessories and gifts.

Is the rooftop bar included in the tour?
Yes — guests are encouraged to visit The Cellar Upstairs after the tasting for music, snacks, and views.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, the building and all tour areas are fully wheelchair accessible.

How long should I plan for my visit?
Allow about 60–90 minutes to enjoy the tour, tasting, and rooftop bar experience.