April 02, 2014

Visit to Schneblys for Wine

The Homestead and Redlands areas offer tourists and locals an opportunity to become involved with agro-tourism, and Schneblys Redland’s Winery is one of the pioneers when it comes to allowing people to witness the some of the best things South Florida has to offer. Started more than ten years ago, Schnebly’s is a winery that differs itself by making wine out of fruits that are not typical components of this type of alcoholic beverage. Instead of using your typical varieties of grape, Schnebly’s offers wines made from local fruits such as guava, lychee, and mango. The fact that they offer customers a taste of local fruit is a wonderful service to the South Floridian community, as it provides insight into the tropical region and climate of the area.

The location itself is well-kept, adequately sized, and pleasing to the eye. You will find yourself in acres of land minimally decorated, letting the natural trees provide a sight that must be appreciated. Instead, the owners decided to accentuate the ambiance provided by nature by adding a small waterfall that is relaxing and beautiful. Most of the area is well-lit by natural light, which gives customers a feeling of peace and like they are outside even when indoors. Employees are extremely helpful and very educated when it comes to all aspects of the business. If someone does not know they answer to something, they will go out of their way to find out for you within the minute.

The winery offers tours on weekends, which are $7 per person. Throughout the tour (which is around half an hour), visitors are told the history of the winery and given the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the land. They are then taught about the winemaking process and what makes Schnebly’s different than other wineries. For those interested in tasting the unique wines, there are tastings which take place in the bar area of the winery. For around $10, guests are allowed to try five different wines of their choice and at the end are allowed to keep the glass which they are using for the tasting. You can then bring the glass back anytime you want and indulge in the same tasting for a very reasonable $5. Throughout the tasting, you are allowed to choose what it is you want to drink and then the bartender will guide you through the tasting depending on what it is that you choose. Since some wines are stronger/lighter/sweeter than others, there is an order that should be kept. The bartenders are extremely informed and will explain the process and why some wines have the flavor profile that they do.

Overall, the experience here is one that should not be missed. The scenery itself is reason alone to come to the winery, but the wine is definitely something that should be sampled when in the area. It is a unique thing that you will not find anywhere else in the country, and it is something you will never forget.