Chautauqua Vineyards

Chautauqua Vineyards is located at the intersection of Interstate 10 and U. S. 331 in Defuniak Springs, Florida. Built in 1989, the wines from Chautauqua Vineyards have been recognized for excellence in major wine competitions across the country. Over 140 gold medals have been earned including gold medals in California's most prestigious wine competitions.

Chautauqua Vineyards' name was chosen because the community of DeFuniak Springs was the Winter Assembly site for the Chautauqua Assembly from Chautauqua County, New York from 1885 until 1928.

The Native American word "chautauqua" means "meeting place." The Assembly Hall of Brotherhood and many turn of the century homes still stand, gracing the shore of a perfectly round lake in the center of the city. The dome on the wine label depicts the dome which caps the Hall of Brotherhood.

The grapes used to make Chautauqua wines are from a family of grapes native to the southeast United States, vitis Rotundifolia, or more commonly, muscadines. The first wine made in the "New World" by Europeans was made in Florida by French Huguenots in 1562 using wild grapes, the predecessors of improved wine grapes.

Chautauqua Wines are wide in variety and style. Barrel-aged Dry Noble and Reserve Emerald Blanc are favorites among wine enthusiasts.

The winery is open for free tasting and tours Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Sunday noon to 5:00 pm, year round. The gift shop features wines and sparkling grape juices and gourmet items, as well as a great selection of wine accessories.

For more information, please write or call:
Chautauqua Vineyards
Intersection of I 10 and U.S. 331, P.O. Box 1308
DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435
Phone: (850) 892-5887 / Fax: (850) 892-9539

A Walking Tour of the Historic Circle in DeFuniak Springs, FL

The Historic Circle is a true monument to historic preservation. Not only are the surroundings a beautiful display of historic Floridian culture, but the hard work of all those involved with the Walking Tour have managed to preserve the aura of our past. This walking tour will enrich visitors with a vast array of surprising DeFuniak facts such as Florida State University has its roots in DeFuniak, along with showcasing premier examples of Queen Anne and Victorian architecture. The walk around the circle truly gives those who are lucky enough to experience it, a priceless glimpse into the foundation of our area.

Tour of Wesley Mansion at Eden State Park

The Wesley Mansion is an incredible display of period furniture. Originally a wedding present to the original owner, it stood as a seven-bedroom home until renovated to include indoor bathrooms and closet space. The tour showcases different time periods and the cultures of those who once called this mansion their home. This tour is a definite must for collectors and historians alike as well as those who take pride in Florida’s surprisingly diverse past.

Performing Art

The Florida Chautauqua Theater holds monthly performances and is dedicated to providing art activities and educational opportunities.

Please contact 850-892-9494, or visit www.floridachautauqua.com for more information.

Grit & Grace is the official folk-life production of Walton County. Grit and Grace celebrates through storytelling, song, music, dance and drama of the cultural heritage and history of Walton County.

Please contact 850-835-2032, or visit www.gritandgrace.com for more information.

The Seaside Repertory Theatre is dedicated to producing high quality productions for both adult and children audiences. Their annual Autumn Playwright Festival is a two-week long celebration including play productions, panel discussions, staged readings and ancillary events. Please contact 850-231-3033, or visit www.seasiderep.org for more information.