SIPPIN' THE NATURE COAST: A CRAFT DRINK TRAIL THROUGH CITRUS COUNTY

Discover the spirited side of Citrus County, where family-owned craft breweries, artisan distilleries and unique wine bars pour the ultimate taste of local paradise!

There is a side of Florida where the pavement gives way to pine hammocks and hidden waters, and the rush of everyday life slows down to the gentle rhythm of nature. But look a little closer between the moss-draped oaks of Crystal River, Homosassa, Inverness, and Floral City, and you will find another kind of magic brewing. Beyond our world-famous manatees and hiking trails lies a vibrant, homegrown drink scene waiting to be uncovered.

Imagine sipping an icy, local craft beer after an epic fishing charter. Or relaxing with a smooth glass of Florida-distilled bourbon. Maybe you prefer a hidden wine bar perfect for watching the sunset and listening to live local talent. Whatever your style, Citrus County serves up an ambiance you won't find anywhere else in the Sunshine State.

Welcome to Sippin’ the Nature Coast. This is your personal invitation to slow down, pull up a chair, and discover the unique venues, passionate makers, and unforgettable flavors that turn a simple visit here into a true escape.

Inspired by the Springs: Aggregation Distilling Company

Nestled along the Nature Coast, Aggregation Distilling Company is rewriting the local flavor profile as Crystal River’s very own craft distillery. This family-owned gem perfectly anchors our vibrant craft beverage trail, standing out alongside regional breweries and wine bars with its distinct, small-batch spirits.

Every sip tells a local story - quite literally - with signature offerings like their vibrant kumquat-infused vodka and gin, distilled on-site and bottled at a smooth 94 proof. Named after the iconic gatherings of local manatees, the distillery mirrors that community spirit in its tasting room, where travelers can unwind with handcrafted cocktails, catch intimate acoustic live music, and relax in a shaded, dog-friendly outdoor seating area after a day on the water.

Big Flavors, Bigger Spaces: Copp Brewery & Winery

A must-visit spot in Crystal River for anyone who loves great drinks and a lively atmosphere. Housed in a massive, open facility right on Gulf to Lake Highway, this local favorite serves up the best of both worlds with its own house-brewed craft beers and locally fermented wines.

Whether you are grabbing a flight to taste in the sun-soaked outdoor beer garden or watching the brewing team work right from the indoor bars, the energy here is always welcoming. Pair your drinks with mouthwatering wood-fired pizza or smoked meats straight from their on-site kitchen, and you have the perfect recipe for a relaxed afternoon on the Nature Coast.

Worth the Journey: Nine State Brewery

Nine State Brewery is a fantastic downtown Inverness hangout that lives up to its motto, "Worth the Journey." Named after the owner's brewing adventures across nine different states before planting roots on the Nature Coast, this charming spot brings something completely unique to the table.

Alongside their crisp, award-winning craft beers, like their recent gold-medal-winning blueberry fruit beer, they serve up a mouthwatering menu of authentic, scratch-made Korean street food like bulgogi bowls and steamed pork dumplings. It is the ultimate laid-back neighborhood spot to gather with friends, grab a flight, and dine while enjoying lively trivia nights or weekend acoustic music.

Upscale Elegance: Twysted Vyne

The perfect downtown Inverness spot when you are looking to trade beer mugs for wine glasses. Located right on Courthouse Square, this casual fine-dining wine bar masterfully blends a sophisticated bistro vibe with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. You can explore a global selection of over 30 wines through curated tasting flights, grab a craft beer on tap, or sip a refreshing wine-based cocktail.

The food menu is packed with crowd-pleasers like upscale charcuterie boards, stone-baked flatbreads, and seared hot-honey duck. Complete with an outdoor patio and a vibrant live music lineup featuring weekly jazz nights and acoustic sets, it is an essential stop for an elegant yet easygoing night out on the town.

The Spirit of the Wetlands: Homosassa Distillery and Brewing Company

A true "Old Florida" front-porch vibe to the Nature Coast craft scene. Tucked away in Homosassa just off Highway 19, this hidden gem serves up high-quality, small-batch spirits and select house-brewed beers that celebrate local flavor.

Every drink tells a story of the surrounding coastal wetlands, from their signature Bald Cypress Bourbon and Osprey Point Whiskey to custom moonshines and their wildly popular "Black" rum. Grab a flight at one of the custom indoor tasting bars, or sip a handcrafted cocktail out on the lively outdoor patio beneath the string lights while enjoying weekend live music and local food trucks.

Global Plates & Custom Flights: KC Wine Bistro

With a delightful, worldly flair in the heart of downtown Crystal River’s historic district, this family-owned and operated charming spot seamlessly transitions from a cozy daytime organic coffee spot to a buzzing evening wine bar and restaurant.

Wine lovers will find an outstanding, thoughtfully curated selection of global bottles that perfectly pair with a surprisingly diverse scratch-made menu. From savory Mediterranean shawarma wraps and Lumpia to fresh coastal seafood and gourmet burgers, the flavors here are a true adventure. It is a fantastic neighborhood staple to unwind with a custom wine flight, cozy up by the beautiful outdoor patio fire pit, and soak in local live music under the stars.

Are you Ready to Hit the Trail?

Whether you are wrapping up a day of scalloping in Crystal River, hiking the trails of Inverness and Floral City, or exploring historic Homosassa, Citrus County’s craft beverage scene is the ultimate way to cap off your Nature Coast adventures.

Oh, and what is the best part? I’m glad you asked!

Every single one of these incredible spots is a featured stop on the official Nature Coast Pour Tour passport. By picking up a passport at the Discover Crystal River Welcome Center, you can collect stamps as you sip your way across the county—unlocking exclusive prizes along the way. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your passport, support our passionate local makers, and start plotting your unforgettable flavor journey through Citrus County today!

Author

Michael Corcoran

Visitor Services Representative

Partners

Aggregation Distilling Company

Citrus County's First Craft Distillery now open! Located on U.S. 19, immediately North of Cody's.Stop in and stay a while! We feature specialty cocktails, as well as your favorite drink from the...

Copp Brewery, Winery & Prohibition Grill

Wine Bar and Brew Pub. Hand-Crafted Wines & Beer produced on site in Citrus County at our Crystal River, Florida winery from the finest domestic and imported ingredients.

Nine State Brewery

From Massachusetts to Florida, the journey through nine states led to this craft beer destination. Nine State Brewery, Worth the Journey.

Twysted Vyne

Trendy establishment, serving food, wine and beer, wine based cocktails. Live music Friday & Saturday

Homosassa Distillery

Handcrafted small-batch fine spirits Unique Cocktails Tours and Tastings Bottles To-Go Merchandise

KC Wine Bistro

Step into a warm, inviting space where Mediterranean flavors meet fresh coastal seafood and gourmet burgers. Whether you're here for a relaxing coffee, a glass of fine wine, or a delicious meal with...