If you’re headed to the Gulf Shores area for an upcoming vacation, you’re in for an incredible time! There’s so much to see and do here, from walking along the white sand beaches to indulging in some fresh local seafood, exploring the cutest shops and boutiques, and getting up close and personal with the native wildlife of the area. Not to mention, other fun destinations like Orange Beach and Fort Morgan are just a quick drive away.
On your Gulf Shores vacation, you might not immediately think about visiting a winery or a brewery, but we’d encourage you to set some time aside for these excursions! If you love wine or beer, or even if you don’t have a favorite drink, there are tons of exciting and welcoming spots for you to sample some of the best libations in Gulf Shores. And don’t worry if you can’t decide between wine or beer; there are a few spots that offer both! Here are a few of our favorite locations just moments away from our Gulf Shores rentals.
Wine Drinkers
The Sunset Cork Room is simply a “must do” for those who consider themselves to be wine connoisseurs. Not only can you try something unique from their extensive wine menu, but you can pair your selection with a delectable entrée. The menu includes indulgent offerings like shrimp scampi, sea scallops, lobster tail, filet mignon, and more. They, of course, also have a huge collection of both white and red wines from around the world, so there’s sure to be a new favorite for you to discover! Once you visit, you’ll understand why the Sunset Cork Room has won Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for 13 years in a row and counting!
If you want to experience a fine glass of wine and a delicious meal with an unmatched view of the shoreline, be sure to plan a visit to Perch. Their menu features unique offerings like the Gulf garlic shrimp and Spanish-style braised octopus, as well as a variety of appetizers and desserts. No matter what you select for your meal, there’s a perfect wine to complement your food! The selections are truly endless, from champagne to sauvignon blanc to merlot, malbec, and so many others. They do also offer beer and specialty cocktails to suit everyone in your group.
Located at The Wharf in nearby Orange Beach, Red or White Wine and Gourmet Center is a convenient spot to grab some delicious wine while you’re shopping or enjoying the local entertainment. Start off with a cheese board that’s been crafted to complement either red or white wine, then choose from one of over a dozen wine selections! You can purchase by the glass or opt for a 2-ounce taste. The wine menu is constantly rotating to give you something new to discover every time you visit! They also offer handmade Neapolitan pies and other decadent food offerings like wild mushroom ravioli or bacon wrapped dates.
Beer Drinkers
If you’d rather indulge in an ice-cold beer over a glass of wine, we’ve got you covered there, too. Big Beach Brewing Company holds a world-class brewery with a 10-barrel brewing system, six fermenters, and 300-gallon vessels on display right behind the bar! You can come here to sample everything from IPAs to cream ales to Belgian-style beers and everything in between. They’ve got 12 brews on tap at all times and host a rotating selection of food trucks for you to grab a meal right on site! If you’re traveling with kids, don’t worry; there’s plenty of outdoor space where families with children can gather and relax while the adults enjoy their beverages.
When you hear the name “Island Wing Company,” you might think this is just a restaurant that specializes in wings. But don’t be fooled! They’ve got an amazing beer selection as well to satisfy everyone in your group. They make it easy to order any kind of beer you like, from the pale lager to IPA to porter or stout. If you’re not sure which one you’d like (or you’re not familiar with all the different types), the friendly staff can help! You can also choose from a huge menu with wings, burgers, flatbreads, tacos, sandwiches, and so much more.
If you don’t feel like visiting a Gulf Shores brewery and would rather just pick up your beer and take it back to your rental, stop by Liquid Latitude. This local store has become a favorite spot of natives and visitors alike, so you’re sure to find the perfect drink for your tastes. They offer a vast selection of both craft and microbrew beers, virtually guaranteeing that they have something you’ve never tried before. Additionally, they have a wide specialty liquor inventory as well as an impressive selection of fine wines from around the globe. If the incredible selection isn’t enough for you, visitors are quick to compliment the welcoming and friendly staff as well!
Plan Your Next Stay
Fort Morgan is just about 20 minutes away from Gulf Shores, so you can still experience all the fun of the city and have a more relaxing and quieter place to return to in the evenings. We are proud to offer rentals that suit families of all sizes and all budgets, so your perfect accommodation is just waiting for you! Our rentals are also conveniently located near some of the best attractions and restaurants in Fort Morgan. Contact us today to learn more and to start planning the ultimate Alabama vacation!
For Those Who Love Both
If it’s just too hard for you to decide between wine and beer, there are several locations throughout Gulf Shores that offer both. Al’s Liquor is the perfect example. This establishment prides itself on offering exquisite bottles of wine-both domestic and imported, and if you have something particular in mind, they can even special order your favorite bottle! Their beer selection is virtually unmatched as well, whether you want to grab a six-pack to take with you or a cold bottle to enjoy immediately. You can also look through the extensive selection of liquor, mixers, and cigars.
If you want a fun location where the entire family can visit, stop into Speakeasy Spirits. Of course, you can come in to sample local wines or try a unique craft beer, but the fun doesn’t stop there. They have a huge wall full of your favorite candy from your childhood, as well as unique sodas in flavors you may have never thought existed. Adults can come in to get their drink of choice, while the kids can pick out a soft drink and a new candy to try!
After a long day of experiencing the local cuisine and indulging in a luxurious glass of wine or refreshing beer of your choice, you’re sure to be tired! Make sure you have a comfortable place to relax for the evening or get freshened up for a night out with your loved ones. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Gulf Shores, consider staying at one of our Fort Morgan rentals!