Highlands County's Best Kept Secret

Hello there, fellow adventurer!

We welcome you to the most magical place you’ll ever visit or at least in this part of Florida—Secret Gardens Winery & Farm. It’s a world full of wonder, where the vines hum with stories, the breeze carries the sweet scent of muscadine wine, and every corner has a tale waiting to be uncovered, but let me start at the beginning, because every good story deserves a proper introduction.

Intro: The Garden’s Pioneers

Narrated by Cash the Golden Retriever

"A long time ago (well, not that long—I’m a dog, so time feels a bit different), Rick and Val, my humans’ humans, discovered a patch of land brimming with potential. Guided by dreams and a touch of adventure, they turned it into the enchanting haven it is today. They planted the first vines, nurtured the soil, and poured their hearts into creating a place where everyone—yes, even your furry friends—feels at home.

Alexa, their daughter, brought her own magic to the mix. She has an incredible talent for transforming fruits and flavors into liquid gold and creating unforgettable experiences for visitors. Together, they built Secret Gardens, not just as a winery but as a sanctuary of stories, laughter, and a retreat for their locals and adventurers."

Chapter 2: The Gatekeeper’s Tale

"That’s where I come in. I’m Cash, the Golden Retriever with a nose for adventure and a knack for making people smile. I inherited the role of greeter from my dad, Noble, and my Aunt Charleigh who are teaching everything I know about hospitality (and about napping in just the right sunbeam). When you visit, one the family members will guide through this magical place. From the moment you step into the vineyard, you’ll feel the love and care from every row of vines to every glass of wine. And if you’re lucky, I might even show you my favorite napping spot!"

Chapter 3: Mysteries of the Secret Garden

What can you uncover here at Secret Gardens? Let me give you a sneak peek:

The Wines: Handcrafted muscadine wines and fruit blends that tell the story of our land with every sip.
The Events: From lively Friday Afternoon Clubs to serene homesteading and art classes among the vines, there’s frequently something happening on the farm.
Florida Fresh Kitchen Collab: We team up with local chefs and kitchens for unforgettable culinary experiences. (You’ll love the food almost as much as I love sneaking a bite when no one’s looking.)

We can't reveal all our secrets...come check it out!

The garden is calling, and I can’t wait to welcome you. Come wander the vineyard paths, sip on wines crafted with love, and meet the family (two-legged and four-legged) that makes this place so special. Secret Gardens isn’t just a winery; it’s a storybook.

Things to Know Before Visiting

Please reach us at info@secretgardenswinery.com if you cannot find an answer to your question

What are your hours of operation?

Currently secret gardens winery (Grounds Farm Store & Tasting Room are open Wednesday-Saturday from 11AM-5PM & Sunday 11-4 PM. Please sign up for email notifications or check our website homepage or Facebook pages for any closures or updates to our hours.

We may make the difficult decision to close early due to bad weather or staffing issues beyond our control. (Occasionally we like to take some family time off as well)...

Do you serve food?

AT THIS TIME OUR KITCHEN IS IN A STATE OF TRANSITION . WE WILL KEEP YOU UPDATED ON OPERATING HOURS AND EVENTS WHEN IT REOPENS.

IN THE MEANTIME..

Charcuterie boards can be arranged with Secret Gardens 24 hours (weekdays) prior notice and prepayment. Pricing starting at $25 ++

We also allow outside picnics or food in. We encourage you go pick up food from a local restaurant or grocery and enjoy our wine and beverage selection at the winery.

NO OUTSIDE BEVERAGES.

Do you offer Tours?

WE DO NOT OFFER A FORMAL TOUR. However guests are free to come visit the vineyard and do a wine flight or shop our farm store. Guests are welcome to walk through the muscadine vineyard or visit our big blue barn that holds a tasting bar and gift shop. If guests would like to do their wine tasting but would rather be outside enjoying the patio, we offer wine flights. There is usually NOT a cover charge to come on property.

Do you Charge for a tasting?

We offer flights as our tasting experience where you don't have to listen "to the spiel" and get (4) 2 oz samples for $13+ and can enjoy the patio or a seat at any available indoor seat.

If you wanted a more formal tasting experience, we will need advanced notice of a minimum of 48 hours. The tasting experience can be modified before arrival by emailing amurray@secretgardenswinery.com

Are you Dog Friendly?

We have two winery dogs that may greet you on arrival to the tasting room & farm store, but our Patio is large enough for you and your friendly furry friend on a leash.

Are Kids Allowed?

Yes. Kids are allowed on premise with adult supervision. However, if left unattended we may give them sugar and free animals to take home. (Just Kidding). However, our winery is more focused on an adult & peaceful atmosphere.

Kids 16 & under will need to be wearing shoes at all times and be accompanied by a parent in our tasting room. We do have some card games or coloring sheets at the bar that can borrow to play in exchange for a parent's ID.

Do you host private parties?

We do! Rates and Quotes will be given formally before contracting, but find a 2025-2026 rate sheet here!

Do I need a reservation for a tasting?

Not Necessarily. We take walk-ins and we offer fast(ish) casual bar service. All orders take place at the garden bar located in the back left side inside the barn. We can accommodate starting a tabs for parties interested in staying a while and hanging out. We encourage parties of 6 or more to make a reservation. We also recommend the same for guests that are on a time schedule to call and make a reservation or to email to make sure we are able to accommodate them. We pride ourselves on treating all our guests like family and providing excellent service so help us help you make this an enjoyable experience for everyone.

We are a Certified Florida Farm Winery & Muscadines Vineyard

...Which means we:

Produce and sell less than 250,000 gallons of wine annually of which 60 % of the wine produced is made from state agricultural products (muscadines, strawberries, fruit grown in florida, etc).
Maintain an operating vineyard with a minimum of 5 acres of owned or managed land in Florida that produces commodities used in the production of wine.
Are open to the public for tours, tastings and sales at least 30 hours each week.