PLANT CITY, Fla. — The staff at Keel + Curley Winery and Keel Farms has been making specialized fruit wines since 2003. 

Clay Keel, the current owner of the family-owned and operated winery, took over operations on the farm in Plant City during 2018, transitioning the winery into a more family-friendly destination devoted to community and sustainability.

Clay's father, a Tampa landscaper, opened the property in 1981 as a 10-acre plant nursery and eventually started growing blueberries. In 2003, the family started processing and producing wine from the fruit. 

“With some of the blueberries we grew that weren't quite pretty enough for the grocery store, my dad used to make wine, and now, 20 years later, the wine is one of the biggest parts of our business," Keel said. 

The business is thriving. Keel and the staff welcome guests to explore their winery and fields and get a behind-the-scenes look at how it all works. 

Right now, Keel + Curley is even offering U-pick experiences, as well as some of its more popular events in the spring, like festivals and music concerts. Visitors also can come in for a wine tasting and food at the on-site restaurant.  

“If you haven't been out to see us, I think you'll find a really unique offering of Florida-inspired drinks all made on site and just a really unique menu and a fun time," Keel said. 

Keel + Curley Winery is open seven days a week, but hours vary, so it's best to check the website before you go. Information on upcoming events at the winery also is available there.