One of Bradenton’s coolest attractions is also one of its best-kept secrets. It’s surprising how many people don’t know that there’s an incredible vineyard and winery right in our backyard! Fiorelli Winery has been around since 1998 and has always been a favorite among locals who are “in the know.”
The winery was recently purchased by John and Kristin Hokanson, who have long been rooted in Manatee County. They have big plans for their new venture, and we couldn’t be more excited.
Kristin, who is a Bradenton native, says she remembers spending time at the vineyard with her parents when she was younger. She has fond memories of the original owners, and today, she and her husband are thrilled to continue the legacy that Antonio & Rosa Fiorelli began decades ago.
A New Era
Kristin says learning how to run a winery and make wines has been a fun learning experience. When they took over, three of the former employees stayed on to help out. This includes the groundskeeper, winemaker, and retail shop employee who also runs the wine tastings. The previous owners have also been incredibly helpful and accomodating.
They’ve recently started the 2021 harvest season and currently have 350 gallons of wine fermenting. There are six different species of Muscadine Grapes grown on the property and they’re used to make several different varieties of wines. Their current offerings range from semi-dry to semi-sweet and they’ve also added strawberry, peach, and blueberry fruit wines to their lineup.
Bradenton’s Most Unique Event Venue
The winery has always been an incredible event venue. It’s perfect for weddings, corporate gatherings, birthday parties, and other special occasions. This gorgeous 10-acre property has a covered, lighted pavilion that offers 360-degree views of the vineyards. It’s hard to imagine this stunning backdrop is right in our backyard! In fact, , it will make you feel like you’ve been transported to the Italian countryside.
When it comes to planning your event, the sky really is the limit. Kristin says, “If you can dream it, we can host it.” While the venue is already pretty amazing, Kristin and John are also planning some additional upgrades and enhancements.
Plan Your Visit
Fiorelli Winery is located at 4250 Co Rd 675 E. Bradenton, FL 34211. They’re open to the public on Fridays from 2 pm to 7 pm, on Saturdays from 11 am to 7 pm, and on Sundays from 11 am to 6 pm. Visitors are welcome to stop by to explore the vineyards, enjoy a wine tasting, and visit their gift shop. Wine tastings are held at the top of every hour. For just $12, you can taste 7 of their 9 wines and take home a souvenir glass.
The winery is a family-friendly and pet-friendly venue – they’re even in the process of adding a kid’s play area. You can expect to see some fun events coming to the winery soon as well. Follow Fiorelli Winery on Facebook to keep up with all the latest news and announcements. When you stop by for a visit (and we know you will!) be sure to tell them you heard about it on Discover Bradenton!
