Aspirations Winery Reopens Tasting Room May 12 With New Attitude

CLEARWATER, FL — Like many business owners, Bill Linville had some time on his hands during the COVID-19 shutdown.

Coming up on his business’ 10th anniversary, Linville couldn't help but reflect on how far Aspirations Winery had come.

The winery was named the Clearwater Chamber of Commerce 2018 Small Business of the Year, Best Florida Winery by House Beautiful Magazine, made 2020 Family Travel Guide's Top 10 Things to Do in Clearwater and has consistently ranked on Trip Advisor’s Top 5 Things to Do in Clearwater.

The winery was growing, and expansion plans were on the horizon when the coronavirus forced Linville and the winery to take a pause.

But during the winery's forced hiatus, Linville had time to let some ideas ferment. He's now reopening his tasting room May 12 with a new focus on neighbors, options and community causes.

As Aspirations Winery, 22041 U.S. 19 N., off Drew Street, reopens next Wednesday, customers will find a few changes.

In addition to 25 options of Clearwater-made wine to choose from, they'll find an ample selection of local brews, including Reef Donkey, 3 Daughters Brewing Beach Blond and Raspberry Lemonade, Cooper Top and Green Bench, just to name a few.

Also available is an expanded charcuterie selection, live music, Wino Bingo and an occasional comedian.

The combination makes for a new afternoon or early evening entertainment option Linville is sure his customers will appreciate.

“I’m excited about 'tapping' more into the local scene. I want Aspirations to be the local bar that happens to make its own wine,” he said.

Additionally, Linville has launched his own Cause Marketing campaign to help local not-for-profits raise much-needed funds. Private labeling four of his most popular wines with a special photo or logo of the NFP, Linville will give the charity additional exposure to the community and a 50/50 share of the revenue.

The Humane Society of both Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties, HEP and Superfit Kidz Foundation have already taken advantage of this opportunity for additional fundraising and donor appreciation.

“It’s always been my goal to pay it forward for the support Tampa Bay has given me for more than 10 years,” said Linville. “The COVID-19 closure allowed me to focus on using my wines for good, and I welcome doing even more.”

As of May 12, Aspirations Winery will be open Wednesday through Sunday with the following hours:

Wednesday: 1 to 6 p.m.

Thursday: 1 to 7 p.m.

Friday: 1 to 8 p.m.

Saturday: 1 to 8 p.m.

Sunday: 1 to 5 p.m.

Happy hours will take place Wednesday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m.

On Thursday, June 3, Aspirations Winery will host a comedy night featuring two comedians.

Additionally, the winery is open for private group tastings and tours along with virtual tastings. The facility can safely serve 54 people in the tasting and production rooms.