St. Augustine, FL: Wine and Dine Pairing Tour

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If you’re considering a taste of St. Augustine beyond its well-trodden historic streets, the Wine and Dine Pairing Tour offers a delightful way to do just that. This guided experience takes you in a relaxed, open-air electric vehicle through neighborhoods like Uptown, Anastasia Island, and Lincolnville, where vibrant culinary scenes thrive away from the usual tourist spots.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its focus on authentic local flavors paired with carefully chosen wines, beers, or artisanal cocktails. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances enjoyable sightseeing with genuinely delicious bites. One of the potential downsides? Since it’s a progressive-style tour, you’ll want to pace yourself and be ready for some walking between venues.

Ideal for food lovers, curious travelers, or those who want a different perspective on St. Augustine’s neighborhoods, this experience offers a mix of tasty discoveries and relaxed sightseeing. If you enjoy small groups and personalized attention, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

St. Augustine, FL: Wine and Dine Pairing Tour - Key Points

  • Beyond the Historic Core: Experience St. Augustine’s vibrant neighborhoods, not just the well-known sights.
  • Progressive Tastings: Four or more stops offering seated tastings in hidden gems of the city.
  • Paired Beverages: Each dish is complemented with wine, beer, or artisanal cocktails, enhancing flavors.
  • Comfortable Transportation: Ride in an open-air electric vehicle, making for a relaxed and eco-friendly journey.
  • Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
  • Flexible & Convenient: Fully licensed guide, with options for flexible booking and free cancellation.
You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

St. Augustine, FL: Wine and Dine Pairing Tour - An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The tour kicks off on the steps of Grace United Methodist Church, a central and recognizable meeting point that signals the beginning of a flavorful adventure. From the outset, the small group size (capped at 8) promises a cozy, engaging atmosphere where you can ask plenty of questions and get tailored insights.

The Transportation: Electric Vehicle Comfort

One of the highlights is the electric vehicle itself. It’s open-air, which means you can enjoy the fresh air and scenic views as you glide through different neighborhoods. This mode of transport is both eco-friendly and convenient, allowing you to hop between venues without the hassle of parking or walking long distances. Plus, the open sides let you feel the city’s vibe, making the journey more immersive.

The Itinerary Breakdown

While the exact venues aren’t specified, the tour emphasizes exploring neighborhoods like Uptown, Anastasia Island, and Lincolnville — areas known for their local charm and culinary creativity. You’ll enjoy four or more stops, each offering a seated tasting. These are not just quick bites, but carefully curated experiences where you can savor a variety of flavors.

Stop 1: Savory Starters

The first stop might feature small plates that highlight local ingredients — perhaps artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, or seafood bites. We loved the way these initial tastings set the tone for the tour, giving a taste of what’s to come and showcasing the chef’s creativity.

Stop 2: Main Course or Tapas

Next, you might find yourself enjoying more substantial bites or tapas-style dishes that pair perfectly with the chosen beverage. The focus here is on pairing, which elevates the experience and helps you understand how different flavors complement each other.

Stop 3: Decadent or Sweet Finish

The tour usually concludes with a sweet or decadent treat, a perfect way to round out the tasting journey. Paired with a dessert wine, artisanal cocktail, or craft beer, it’s a memorable ending that leaves you satisfied but eager for more.

The Beverages: Carefully Selected Pairings

Each stop pairs food with a beverage that enhances the flavors. Whether it’s a crisp wine, a refreshing craft beer, or a small-batch cocktail, these pairings are thoughtfully chosen to complement the dishes. Such attention to detail makes the tasting experience feel refined but accessible.

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What Past Reviewers Say

Feedback from previous participants highlights “excellent wine selection” and “delicious food and tapas” as standout features. One noted, “The pairings truly elevated each bite,” emphasizing how well the beverages complemented the food. Others appreciated the relaxed pace and the chance to explore neighborhoods they might not otherwise visit.

Practicalities and Pricing

At $155 per person, the tour is a bit of an investment, but considering the small group size, expert guide, and multiple tastings, it offers good value for those looking for a gourmet experience coupled with sightseeing. The three-hour duration makes it manageable for an afternoon activity, with most tours running in the daylight hours.

Accessibility and Special Considerations

The tour is accessible for most travelers, but note that last-minute dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated. The guide requests 24-hour notice for dietary needs and emphasizes that the tour goes out rain or shine, so come prepared with weather-appropriate clothing. As with all good food experiences, gratuity is separate, around 15%, with higher tips for exceptional service.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

St. Augustine, FL: Wine and Dine Pairing Tour - Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re interested in local culinary scenes and enjoy paired tastings in a small-group setting. It’s especially suited for those who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and discover neighborhoods like Lincolnville and Anastasia Island. It’s also a good choice for food and wine enthusiasts who appreciate thoughtfully curated pairings.

However, it’s important to remember that this is not a history-focused tour—the main emphasis is on food, drink, and neighborhood exploration. If you’re traveling with children under 21 or seeking a full historical tour, this may not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

St. Augustine, FL: Wine and Dine Pairing Tour - The Sum Up

The St. Augustine Wine and Dine Pairing Tour offers a flavorful way to see the city’s hidden neighborhoods while indulging in expertly paired bites and drinks. The electric vehicle makes the experience comfortable and eco-friendly, and the small-group format ensures a personal touch.

This tour delivers a genuine taste of local culinary creativity and is ideal for curious travelers who want more than just sightseeing — they want an authentic, delicious adventure with a relaxed pace. If you value high-quality food, thoughtful pairings, and exploring lesser-known parts of town, this experience could be a highlight of your visit.

While it costs a bit more than a standard food tour, the quality, intimacy, and unique neighborhoods make it a worthwhile investment for lovers of good eats and local culture. Just remember to plan for the weather, dietary needs, and tips, and you’re set for a memorable, tasty journey through St. Augustine.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
It’s best to notify the tour provider 24 hours in advance about any dietary restrictions. Last-minute requests cannot be accommodated, and vegan, kosher, gluten-free, or other restrictive diets might be challenging to fulfill.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, usually in the afternoon, making it a great afternoon activity.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the food tastings, beverages (wine, beer, or artisanal cocktails), chauffeured transportation, and a fully licensed guide.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuity is separate. A typical tip is around 15%, but you may tip more for exceptional service.

Where do I meet the tour?
You’ll meet on the steps of Grace United Methodist Church, a central and recognizable location in the city.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility for your plans.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is only for participants 21 years and older due to alcohol consumption and age restrictions.

What should I wear?
Come prepared for weather conditions, as the tour includes some walking and outdoor segments. Umbrellas aren’t provided, so bring one if rain is forecasted.

Is it accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
While the electric vehicle makes for a comfortable ride, some walking between venues is involved, so consider your mobility needs.

What languages is the guide available in?
The tour is offered in both English and Spanish, accommodating a broader range of guests.

If you’re eager to explore St. Augustine’s culinary side in a relaxed, intimate setting with expert guidance, the Wine and Dine Pairing Tour stands out as a memorable choice. It’s a blend of tasty bites, thoughtfully paired drinks, and neighborhood discovery — perfect for those wanting to experience the city’s hidden culinary treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: