Southern Florida is rarely associated with wine. When it comes to winemaking in the U.S., most people immediately think of the sunny hills of California, the famous Napa Valley, or the wineries of Oregon. These regions have shaped the image of American wine on the global stage for decades. The tropical climate of Florida, with its heat, humidity, and frequent rains, would seem completely unsuitable for classic grapes and traditional winemaking.

But southern Florida knows how to surprise.

Just a few dozen kilometers from the bustling and vibrant city of Miami lies a place that completely changes the perception of what wine can be. Amid tropical gardens, palm-lined paths, and cascading waterfalls stands the extraordinary Schnebly Redland’s Winery. This place feels more like an exotic botanical garden or a small Caribbean-style resort than a traditional vineyard.

The winery’s main feature is that it hardly uses grapes at all. Instead, it draws on what southern Florida is famous for — tropical fruits. Mango, guava, passion fruit, lychee, starfruit, coconut, and even avocado become the base for unusual wines that are nearly impossible to taste anywhere else in the world.

It sounds unusual — and that is exactly the magic of this place.

These fruit wines have a completely different character: they are bright, aromatic, often light and refreshing, perfectly suited to Florida’s hot climate. Some resemble dessert wines, while others are more like summer cocktails with natural fruity sweetness.

That’s why Schnebly Redland’s Winery has become one of the state’s most unique gastronomic attractions over time. It draws not only tourists but also locals from Miami, who come to spend the day surrounded by nature, sample rare wines, and simply escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

A tour of the winery is much more than a standard tasting. It’s a small journey into a world of tropical nature, where waterfalls murmur, exotic plants flourish, and in your glass, instead of the usual grape, the aromas of mango, guava, and passion fruit unfold. It’s easy to forget that you’re just an hour away from a major metropolis.

For this reason, a visit to the winery becomes one of the most unusual and delightful gastronomic discoveries during a trip through southern Florida.

When Grapes Don’t Grow: The Story of Schnebly’s Tropical Winemaking

The history of Schnebly Redland’s Winery is a perfect example of how limitations can spark something entirely new. Today, it is considered one of the most unusual wineries in the U.S., but it all started with a simple idea and a lot of experimentation.

The winery was founded by entrepreneur and wine enthusiast Peter Schnebly. When he moved to southern Florida in the late 1990s, he noticed an interesting characteristic of the region: despite a wealth of agricultural activity, there were almost no vineyards. The reason was practical — classic wine grapes struggle to thrive in the tropical climate.

Southern Florida presents conditions that are almost extreme for grape growing:

• High humidity year-round;
• Hot subtropical climate;
• Frequent tropical rains;
• Pests and fungal plant diseases;
• Unique soil composition.

Under such conditions, growing traditional European grape varieties is nearly impossible. Many farmers tried to experiment, but achieving consistent results was difficult.

However, this very challenge became the starting point for a new idea.

Rather than fight nature, Peter Schnebly decided to work with what Florida truly offers — tropical fruits. The southern region of the state is famous for its mango orchards, guava and passion fruit plantations, starfruit, and dozens of other exotic plants. This is how the experiments with fruit fermentation began.

The first batches of wine were created in an experimental mode: recipes were adjusted, sugar levels tweaked, and fermentation methods tested. Not every experiment succeeded, but gradually drinks emerged that amazed with their brightness and aroma. Over time, the winery began producing several unique wine varieties, including:

• Mango wine — soft and aromatic;
• Passion fruit wine — refreshing with a bright tang;
• Lychee wine — delicate floral notes;
• Guava wine — sweet and full-bodied;
• Starfruit wine — light and fruity;
• Coconut wine — one of the rarest;
• Avocado wine — unusual and very smooth.

Some of these wines are so unusual that even experienced sommeliers try them for the first time here. Over time, the small experimental production grew into a full-fledged winery, surrounded by a space designed for relaxation and gastronomic experiences.

Today, Schnebly Redland’s Winery is located in the Redland Agricultural District — a green area about 40–45 minutes from Miami. This region is known for its farms, mango orchards, and exotic plantations. The winery grounds themselves resemble a true tropical park. Every effort was made to create an atmosphere of relaxation and harmony with nature, making a walk around the winery a pleasure in its own right. Guests can see:

• Artificial waterfalls among palm trees;
• Stone bridges over small ponds;
• Bamboo-lined pathways;
• Tropical plants and orchids;
• Cozy shaded courtyards;
• Decorative ponds with fish.

Many visitors say the atmosphere of the winery feels more like a resort in Bali or the Caribbean than a traditional vineyard. This is exactly what makes it special.

There is none of the strict vinicultural formality typical of many European wineries. Instead, everything is built around the idea of relaxed leisure, gastronomic discovery, and experiencing the natural beauty of southern Florida.

As a result, the winery has become not just a beverage producer, but one of the region’s most unusual tourist attractions — a place to enjoy the atmosphere, discover new flavors, and admire stunning landscapes.

Florida’s Unusual Winery: What Makes Schnebly So Special

There are thousands of wineries in the United States, ranging from small family operations to large commercial producers. Yet, Schnebly Redland’s Winery holds a truly special place among them. There are no traditional vineyards, formal tasting rooms, or classic varietals like Cabernet or Merlot. Instead, guests are greeted with a vibrant mix of tropical nature, unusual flavors, and a relaxing, resort-like atmosphere.

This winery feels more like an exotic garden with a gastronomic twist than a traditional winemaking estate. That’s why it has become one of the most original attractions near Miami. Let’s explore what makes this place truly unique.

1. 01. Tropical Fruit Wines — Rare Even in the U.S.
   The winery’s main feature is, of course, its drinks. Unlike most wineries around the world, grapes are hardly used here. Instead, tropical fruits, for which southern Florida is famous, form the basis of the wines. The region grows dozens of exotic crops, and the winery makes full use of this rich palette of flavors. The result is wines that are hard to find anywhere else. Among the most popular varieties:

• Mango Wine
  A soft, aromatic wine with a pronounced fruity character. It evokes the flavor of ripe mango and has a gentle sweetness.
• Lychee Wine
  Very light and fragrant, with floral and subtle honeyed notes. Many compare it to an exotic summer cocktail.
• Passion Fruit Wine
  Refreshing and bright, with the characteristic sweet-tart flavor of passion fruit.
• Guava Wine
  Rich and sweeter, with a dense fruity aroma.
  In addition to these varieties, the winery occasionally produces experimental wines from other tropical fruits. Interestingly, the flavor profile of these wines differs greatly from traditional grape wines. They are more aromatic, often lighter in body, with vivid fruity notes — perfect for Florida’s hot climate. Many guests discover an entirely new style of wine here for the first time.

1. 02. A Tropical Garden Instead of Vineyards
   Most wineries are associated with endless rows of grapevines. But at Schnebly Redland’s Winery, it looks entirely different. Here, a true tropical park has been created, where guests can stroll among exotic plants and cascading water features. The landscape is designed so that the walk itself becomes a memorable experience. On the grounds, visitors can see:

• Tall palms and bamboo groves;
• Rare tropical plants and blooming orchids;
• Decorative fish ponds;
• Stone bridges;
• Artificial waterfalls;
• Sculptures nestled in greenery.
  On a sunny day, the place feels like a small resort somewhere in Southeast Asia. It’s no wonder that many guests compare the winery’s atmosphere to a miniature Balinese garden. This setting has made the winery a popular spot for photoshoots, weddings, and romantic strolls.

1. 03. A Winery That Feels Like a Retreat
   Another reason for Schnebly’s popularity is its relaxed atmosphere. There’s none of the formal tasting-room rigidity often found in classic wineries. Instead, guests enjoy a light and pleasant leisure experience. The grounds include a terrace restaurant, a tasting bar, and relaxation areas amidst the gardens.
   Throughout the year, various events take place: music evenings, gastronomic festivals, weddings and private celebrations, themed tastings.
   On weekends, the winery often transforms into a local retreat for South Florida residents. People come to enjoy live music, sample new wines, and simply unwind in a beautiful setting.

It’s precisely this combination — exotic nature, unusual drinks, and a resort-like atmosphere — that makes the winery one of the most memorable locations near Miami. For many travelers, a visit here is an unexpected discovery: even in tropical Florida, you can find truly unique winemaking.

More Than Tasting: Things to Do at Schnebly Winery

A visit to Schnebly Redland’s Winery is about much more than exploring unusual wines. Many guests come simply to spend a pleasant day in nature, discover new flavors, and escape the bustle of city life.

The winery is located close to Miami, but the atmosphere is entirely different: calm, relaxed, and slightly resort-like. Visitors can spend several hours strolling the grounds at a leisurely pace, sampling local drinks, and enjoying tropical scenery. Here are a few highlights that make a visit worthwhile.

1. 01. Tasting Tropical Wines
   The most popular part of any visit is, of course, the tasting. This is why most travelers make their first trip to the winery. In the tasting room, guests are offered several signature drinks made from local fruits. Unlike traditional grape wines, these wines have a completely different character: more aromatic, naturally sweet, and refreshingly light.
   Typical tasting flights include wines made from mango, passion fruit, coconut, guava, and starfruit. Each wine reveals its own unique profile — for example, mango wine is soft and rich, while passion fruit wine offers a bright sweet-tart freshness. During tastings, winery staff explain:

• Which fruits are used in production;
• How the fermentation process works;
• How tropical fruit wines differ from classic grape wines;
• Which dishes pair best with each wine.
  Even those who usually aren’t wine enthusiasts often discover an entirely new gastronomic experience here.

1. 02. Walking Through the Tropical Garden
   After the tasting, be sure to set aside time for a walk around the winery grounds. This is one of those places where you just want to wander slowly, noticing every detail. The grounds are designed as a true tropical park, full of greenery, water features, and cozy spots for relaxation. While strolling, guests can:

• Walk along bamboo-lined paths;
• See palms and exotic plants;
• Take photos by waterfalls;
• Cross stone bridges over decorative ponds;
• Relax in the shade of tropical trees.
  In some corners of the garden, all you hear is the sound of water and birdsong, making it easy to forget that a major city lies just a few dozen kilometers away. It’s no surprise that the winery is popular for weddings, photoshoots, and romantic walks. Many guests say the garden stroll leaves as strong an impression as the wine tasting itself.

1. 03. Restaurant and Gastronomic Discoveries
   After the walk, many guests head to the winery’s restaurant. Situated on a cozy terrace overlooking the tropical garden, lunch or dinner here becomes a delightful culinary adventure. The menu is inspired by South Florida and Caribbean cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, vegetables, and, of course, tropical fruits. Guests can find:

• Dishes with fresh fish and seafood;
• Salads with mango and avocado;
• Light Caribbean-style appetizers;
• Meat dishes with fruit sauces;
• Desserts with tropical flavors.
  The restaurant is designed so that many dishes pair harmoniously with the local wines. For instance, light fruit wines complement seafood perfectly, while sweeter varieties are ideal with desserts. Occasionally, musical evenings or small festivals take place on the grounds, adding to the lively, festive atmosphere.

As a result, a visit to the winery becomes a full mini-journey: first, you discover unusual wines, then stroll through a tropical garden, and finally enjoy a meal on the terrace with views of palms and waterfalls.

It’s this combination of nature, gastronomy, and relaxation that brings guests back to Schnebly Redland’s Winery time and again.

Tropical Beer Among the Palms: The Unique Brewery on the Winery Grounds

Not everyone knows that within the grounds of Schnebly Redland’s Winery is another fascinating destination for gastronomic exploration — the craft brewery Miami Brewing Company.

Located just steps from the winery, it perfectly complements the tropical complex’s atmosphere. Guests can enjoy not only unique fruit wines but also original local beers brewed with the same tropical ingredients. This makes the winery grounds even more appealing for travelers: even if some in the group prefer beer over wine, there’s something for everyone.

1. 01. How the Brewery Came to Be
   The brewery was established after the winery, but quickly became its natural extension. The creators wanted to expand the site’s gastronomic concept and offer guests another type of beverage inspired by southern Florida’s nature. Thus, the idea of brewing tropical craft beer was born.
   Rather than using standard recipes, brewers began experimenting with local fruits and ingredients. Some beers acquired unique flavors thanks to mango, guava, passion fruit, coconut, or lime. The result was so successful that the brewery quickly gained popularity not only with tourists but also with Miami locals.
2. 02. What Beers You Can Try
   The brewery’s selection changes regularly, as many beers are produced in small batches. Among the most popular options are:

• Light tropical ales with fruity notes;
• Refreshing wheat beers;
• Full-bodied IPAs with a strong hop aroma;
• Seasonal brews with mango or passion fruit;
• Experimental recipes available for a limited time.
  These drinks are ideal for Florida’s hot climate — light, refreshing, and very aromatic.

1. 03. The True Florida Brewery Atmosphere
   The brewery features a relaxed atmosphere that perfectly reflects the South Florida lifestyle. Unlike traditional wineries with formal tastings, everything here is simpler and more casual. Guests can:

• Sample several beers in a tasting flight;
• Relax on the outdoor terrace;
• Chat with friends over a cold ale;
• Enjoy live music on weekends.
  Music evenings, small festivals, gastronomic events, and craft beer gatherings are frequent. In the evening, soft lighting and music create a cozy, welcoming ambiance.

1. 04. A Perfect Addition to Your Wine Tour
   Many guests start their visit with a tasting of tropical wines at the winery, then move on to the brewery to try local craft beers. This combination makes the trip even more diverse and offers an excellent opportunity to:

• Compare two completely different types of beverages;
• Try unusual flavors;
• Spend time in a beautiful tropical setting.

In the end, the grounds of Schnebly Redland’s Winery become more than just a winery — they transform into a true regional gastronomic hub, where tropical nature, original drinks, and a relaxing atmosphere come together.

Beyond the Winery: What to See in the Tropical Redland Region

A trip to Schnebly Redland’s Winery rarely stops at just wine tasting. The winery is located in one of South Florida’s most unusual areas — the Redland Agricultural District.

This region is a stark contrast to the typical image of Florida with its skyscrapers, beaches, and resort areas. There are almost no crowded tourist streets here. Instead, you’ll find farms, tropical gardens, fruit plantations, and small family-run markets. On a tour, many travelers discover a completely different Florida — green, calm, and full of incredible aromas. Near the winery, there are also several sites that perfectly complement the visit.

1. 01. A Tropical Paradise for Food Lovers — Fruit & Spice Park
   One of the most unusual attractions in the region is Fruit & Spice Park. This unique botanical garden houses one of the largest collections of tropical plants in the U.S., with over 500 types of fruits, nuts, spices, and exotic trees. Many of these plants are rarely seen in supermarkets or typical gardens. During a walk, visitors can see:

• Giant jackfruits weighing dozens of kilograms;
• Rare varieties of mango grown only in tropical climates;
• Fragrant tamarind trees;
• Sapote — a sweet fruit with caramel and chocolate notes;
• Starfruit, papaya, and other exotic crops.
  One of the park’s highlights is that during the season, some fruits can be sampled right on site. For many travelers, this becomes a true gastronomic adventure. The park also hosts mango festivals, tropical fruit tastings, farmers’ markets, and educational tours.

1. 02. The Legendary Robert Is Here Fruit Stand
   Another iconic spot in the region is Robert Is Here Fruit Stand. Despite its modest name, this small farmers’ market is famous far beyond the county.
   The market’s story began in 1959, when six-year-old Robert started selling fruits by the roadside near his family’s farm. To attract customers, his father put up a sign that read “Robert is here”. The name stuck and eventually became a recognized brand. Today, it is a gastronomic destination attracting both tourists and Miami locals. Visitors can find:

• Dozens of types of fresh tropical fruits;
• Homemade jams and sauces;
• Rare mango and papaya varieties;
• Farm-fresh vegetables;
• Natural honey and spices.
  The true star of this market is its enormous fruit milkshakes, made fresh on site. The portions have become legendary among travelers. Many visit specifically to try shakes made from mango, guava, passion fruit, strawberry, or coconut.

1. 03. Redland — The Rural Florida Most Tourists Never See
   The Redland Agricultural District itself deserves special attention. It is one of South Florida’s primary agricultural regions. Here, you’ll find family farms, mango groves, tropical gardens, small farmers’ markets, and rare plant nurseries. Spring and summer are especially beautiful, as many trees bear fruit and the air fills with the scents of ripening crops. On a tour of Redland, you can see:

• Vast mango orchards;
• Avocado farms;
• Greenhouses with exotic plants;
• Small markets selling fresh produce.
  At times, it feels more like Central America or the Caribbean than a few dozen kilometers from a major metropolis.

For these reasons, a visit to the winery often turns into a mini journey through the entire region. In a single day, travelers can taste rare tropical fruits, experience farm life in Florida, and discover culinary traditions that most tourists never even imagine.

A Day Among Tropical Gardens and Wines: What an American Butler Tour Looks Like

A trip to Schnebly Redland’s Winery can become one of the most pleasant and unusual days during a journey through South Florida. To allow guests to fully relax and not worry about logistics, American Butler organizes thoughtfully planned excursions with comfortable transportation, a guide, and a flexible program.

This format allows visitors not just to see a winery, but to turn the trip into a small gastronomic journey through the tropical region near Miami. Below is an example of how such a day may unfold.

1. 01. Morning: departure from Miami and a drive through tropical Florida
   The excursion begins with a comfortable departure from the city. The guide meets guests at the hotel or another pre-arranged location in Miami. The trip is usually made in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, which is especially important in Florida’s warm climate. Water and soft drinks are prepared for guests in the car.
   The drive to the winery takes about 40–50 minutes, but the time passes quickly. Along the way, the guide talks about the region and shares interesting facts about South Florida. During the ride, guests learn:

• Why this region is considered one of the main agricultural areas of the state;
• Which tropical fruits local farmers grow;
• How the Redland Agricultural District appeared;
• Why grapes hardly grow in southern Florida;
• How the idea of making wine from mango, guava, and passion fruit emerged.
  Gradually, the cityscape gives way to green orchards, farms, and small farmers’ markets — and it becomes clear that you are entering a very different Florida, far from the beach resorts.

1. 02. Arrival at the winery and introduction to the grounds
   Upon arrival at Schnebly Redland’s Winery, the excursion begins with a walk around the property. The guide introduces guests to the history of the winery and explains how it was created and why it has become one of the most unusual wineries in the United States. During the tour you can see different parts of the complex. Guests visit tropical gardens and decorative ponds, picturesque waterfalls, wine production areas, and the tasting room.
   Along the way, the guide explains the process of creating fruit wine. Many visitors are surprised to learn that the technology is largely similar to traditional winemaking, but tropical fruits are used instead of grapes. You will learn:

• How fruits are selected for production;
• How long fermentation takes;
• How fruit wines differ from traditional grape wines;
• Which varieties are especially popular among winery guests.

1. 03. Tasting: discovering tropical flavors
   The next part of the excursion is the most anticipated. In the tasting room, guests begin exploring the winery’s signature drinks. Visitors are invited to try several wines made from tropical fruits. The tasting often includes: mango wine, lychee wine, passion fruit, and guava.
   Each drink has its own aroma and character. Some varieties resemble light summer wines, while others are closer to dessert drinks. The guide helps guests better understand the flavors and explains:

• Which notes can be detected in each drink;
• Which dishes pair best with these wines;
• Which varieties are considered the winery’s signature selections.
  Even for experienced travelers, this tasting often becomes a real gastronomic discovery.

1. 04. Free time: walks, photos, and relaxation
   After the tasting, guests have time to enjoy the winery atmosphere at their own pace. You can:

• Walk through the tropical garden;
• Take photos near the waterfalls;
• Stroll along bamboo alleys;
• Visit the restaurant on the property;
• Purchase your favorite wines at the winery’s shop.
  The winery grounds are very picturesque, so many travelers end up spending more time here than they originally planned. It is the perfect place to relax, take unhurried walks, and simply enjoy nature.

1. 05. Additional stops along the way
   The excursion can also be expanded with other interesting locations in the region. At the guests’ request, the program may include stops at places such as:

• Fruit & Spice Park — a unique tropical fruit park;
• Robert Is Here Fruit Stand — a famous farmers’ market;
• Local fruit farms and plantations.
  Such stops allow visitors to explore the agricultural culture of the region and taste rare tropical fruits.

1. 06. Return to Miami
   After the excursion ends, the transfer brings guests back to Miami. Along the way, the guide may share additional recommendations:

• The best restaurants in the city;
• Interesting gastronomic spots;
• Unusual neighborhoods for walking;
• Places rarely visited by tourists.
  In this way, a trip to the winery becomes not just an excursion, but part of a deeper introduction to the culture and cuisine of South Florida.

Useful tips before the trip

To make the excursion as comfortable as possible, it is worth keeping a few simple recommendations in mind.

• Choose the right time
  The best time to visit the winery is considered to be the period from November to April. During this time, the weather in South Florida is the most pleasant. It is also a good idea to arrive in the morning, when it is not yet too hot, or closer to sunset, when the grounds look especially beautiful. In summer, temperatures and humidity can be quite high.
• Clothing and footwear
  Since part of the excursion takes place outdoors, it is best to choose light clothing made from natural fabrics, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and sunglasses. The winery grounds are fairly large, so the walk may take some time.
• Don’t forget your camera
  This is one of the most photogenic places in the region. The best photo spots include waterfalls among palm trees, bamboo alleys, bridges over decorative ponds, and cozy corners of the tropical garden.
• Plan your day without rushing
  Although fruit wines are usually lighter than classic wines, the tasting includes several drinks. Therefore, it is better not to plan other alcohol tastings for the same day.

The ideal option is to dedicate the day to relaxed leisure, pleasant walks, and gastronomic discoveries.

Discover Florida’s Unusual Side with American Butler

A tour to Schnebly Winery is an opportunity to see Florida from an unexpected perspective. There are no crowds of tourists or noisy beaches here. Instead, you’ll find:

• Tropical nature;
• Unusual gastronomy;
• Rare wines;
• An atmosphere of relaxed leisure.

It is an ideal destination for a romantic trip, a gastronomic journey, or an unusual excursion from Miami. If you want to discover the real, non-touristy side of Florida, the American Butler team will help organize a comfortable trip with transportation, a guide, and a thoughtfully planned program.

With American Butler, you won’t just visit a winery — you’ll discover an entire region that many travelers never get to see.