Sorry for the long delay in posting a new blog; however, I have spent a month in Costa Rica where there really wasn’t anything to write about in terms of beer or wine.  I spent my time mostly drinking Argentinian and Chilean wines from the grocery store and Imperial/Imperial Light at the local bar. Not anything that anyone would want to read about!

I decided when I returned home to finally get around to writing about a few of our local places.  I have been to Eden Winery several times over the years, but have never actually blogged about them.  Eden Winery is located in Alva, Florida,  which is basically a northern suburb of Fort Myers.  The wines here have definitely improved over the last eight years or so that I have lived in the area. However, they are nothing to write home about.

When I first moved to the area, they were growing a few grapes on the property. Now the majority of the grapes are coming from a bit farther north where the weather is not quite as hot during the summer months.  The wines are drinkable but definitely not for the real wine lover.  The Lake Emerald is their driest red and the only one which might appeal to a dry wine lover.  The Alva Rouge is a bit lighter, characterized as medium dry.  The Alva White is their driest white but is a bit on the sweet side, also characterized as medium dry. However it has an unusual after taste that reminds me of pineapple.  Although suggested as a wine to go with seafood, pork or poultry, I might want to pair this with Asian foods.  Coral Bell is a blush that is slightly sparkling when first opened and has a very strawberry taste. I can see this as good picnic wine, as well as Eden Stars.  Eden Stars is really the reason to go to Eden Winery. Eden Stars is a wine made from starfruit and has a taste that is definitely unique.  I would suggest going out to Eden Winery on a rainy day when the beaches are a no-go just to try Eden Stars.  Eden Spice is their final wine and is a very sweet red that really does not appeal to me, although they say it is their most popular wine.

Eden Winery has a nice property with cattle, picnic tables, and a nice front porch.  I would suggest a visit as a good alternative to the beach. I often buy wine as presents from Eden Winery, not because it is good, but because I want to support my local businesses. Besides, Eden Winery is the southernmost winery and vineyards in the United States.