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Santa Barbara wine country offers the wine-curious traveler an authentic experience all its own.
Diversity is what defines the authentic vibe of the Santa Barbara wine experience. Amidst a buzzing downtown scene, the urban wine scene is electric, with dozens of tasting rooms and working wineries peppering the city. An easy 45-minute drive over the hill, though, reveals rolling vineyards as far as the eye can see, and a quintessential wine country experience marked by world-class wine, cuisine and hospitality.
However, much of the magic that makes Santa Barbara a world-class winemaking region is Mother Nature’s handiwork. The Santa Ynez Mountains that anchor this area, and the fertile valleys that they create, represent the only traverse along the entire Pacific Coast — from Alaska all the way down to Chile — that runs east-west. The weather conditions that this creates, driven by a steady influence of ocean air and marked by distinct weather swings from morning until night, translate into prime grape-growing conditions. The 30-mile drive from the western stretches of Lompoc to the eastern pockets of Los Olivospaints the picture: the air temperature will often climb one degree for every mile you travel.
These very special weather conditions, combined with an unbeatable variety of soils, have defined Santa Barbara wine country in exciting ways. For one, diversity is the calling card here. Unlike other regions that are known for the handful of grapes they grow well, all varieties thrive in Santa Barbara County: Burgundian grapes like pinot noir and chardonnay in the Sta. Rita Hills and Santa Maria Valley; Rhone grapes like syrah and grenache in Ballard Canyon; and Bordeaux heavyweights like cabernet sauvignon and merlot in Happy Canyon. Toss in projects that feature Italian and Spanish varieties, late harvest wines and a surging focus on bubbly, and the options are limitless.
Stylistically restored respecting the buildings’ original heritage, Darrell and Kirsten Becker have put a modern spin on The Feed Mill originally constructed in 1904 by the Boykin family. Coined The Mill, the corner of Laguna and Haley is now…
Wines that are singular, compelling and beautiful rely on great vineyards and proper farming in union with a healthy dose of confidence, determination and style. Like great food, they can not exist without superior 'raw materials', the land…
Destination Vine offers private customized winery experiences in Santa Barbara's celebrated Wine Country! We provide access to high quality, private smaller production "hidden gems" for those who want a unique,…
We’ll take care of all the details while you enjoy the heart of Santa Ynez wine country, home to several very popular California vintners. This tour is a great opportunity to sample and learn about the region’s wines. Your group will be…
Don’t miss our Annual California Wine Festival (CWF), in beautiful Santa Barbara, CA one of the largest outdoor wine festivals in the state! This beautiful city is the original home of the CWF, a spectacular gathering of wine, food,…
Santa Barbara Classic Wine Tours is committed to providing you with an unforgettable experience in the Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez wine country. We offer a tailored tour that includes a variety of estate wineries, unique tasting room experiences,…
Elevate your sniff, swirl and sip experience to a new standard of memorable, with these anything-but-ordinary ways to wine when you’re on The American Riviera®. Photo Credit: Demetria Estate Winery
There's nothing better than a gorgeous afternoon tasting your favorite wines and basking in the golden sun of the majestic Santa Ynez Valley. Photo Credit: Instagram @santabarbarawinecountry
A secluded spot for two. Enjoy a glass of premium wine within the comfort of Sunstone Vineyard's wide-open spaces. Photo Credit: heidi1002 via Instagram
Outside is the best place to be. Happy Canyon Vineyard has updated the El Paseo courtyard with new tables and plenty of shade. Photo Credit: downtownsantabarbara via Instagram
Wine tasting done right. Arrive at Sanford Winery for your private tasting in style. Let Nanco Helicopters be your designated pilot. Photo Credit: Instagram @nancohelicopters
