Take a trip through the charming Santa Barbara wine country. It's a mix of humble warmth and classy style. You'll find over 100 tasting rooms in Santa Barbara surrounding beautiful vineyards. This gives you the chance to enjoy unique wine tastings, go on fun wine tours, and enjoy the stunning scenes of outdoor wine tastings.
In 2021, Santa Barbara won the "Wine Region of the Year" title by Wine Enthusiast. This was for its strong focus on being green and the many talented female winemakers. Traveling the Santa Barbara wine trail lets you see new and reopened tasting rooms. Each one has its own special feel and offers the best wines from the area.
You can visit Santa Barbara Winery, the area's first winery from 1962, to the new spots like Pali Wine Garden and Valley to the Sea Winery. There are lots of amazing wineries in Santa Barbara to see. Whether you know a lot about wine or are just starting, Santa Barbara wine tasting will be a delightful adventure that will make you want to try more.
Key Takeaways:
- Santa Barbara County boasts over 100 tasting rooms surrounded by stunning vineyards
- Named the "2021 Wine Region of the Year" by Wine Enthusiast for its sustainability efforts and talented female winemakers
- Discover unique tasting experiences, special interest wine tours, and scenic outdoor wine tasting offerings
- Visit new and recently reopened tasting rooms showcasing the finest wines from the region
- Explore the oldest winery in Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Winery, established in 1962
Discover the Charm of Santa Barbara Wine Country
Join us on a journey through Santa Barbara's wine country. You’ll experience unique tastings, diverse tours, and stunning outdoor scenes. This area combines a laid-back vibe with a touch of elegance. Enjoy visits to top wineries and amazing wine tastings.
The Unique Tasting Experiences
Enjoy Santa Barbara's top tasting rooms with amazing wines and engaging stories. At Firestone Vineyard, see the first estate winery in the Santa Ynez Valley, founded in 1972. Or check out Demetria, a high-elevation vineyard using biodynamic farming. Vincent Vineyards offers friendly service and great wine. Pence Vineyard has beautiful Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. It spreads across 47 picturesque acres.
Variety of Special Interest Wine Tours
Deepen your Santa Barbara wine knowledge with special tours. Pick a Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, or Syrah tour you'll love. Visit Melville Wineries and explore their 120 acres. Or stop by Carr Wineries for Pinot Noirs, Syrahs, and more. For something unique, try yoga at SYV Yoga Winery, then taste some wines.
| Winery | Established | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Babcock Winery | Over 30 years ago | Perfecting winemaking in the Sta. Rita Hills |
| Beckmen Winery | 1994 | Drawing out distinct qualities of grape varieties and vineyards |
| Fess Parker Winery | 1988 | 110-acre estate vineyard with a lovely terrace and grounds |
| Presqu'ile Vineyard | N/A | 73 acres producing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc |
Scenic Outdoor Wine Tasting Offerings
Experience outdoor wine tastings with breathtaking views in Santa Barbara. With 200 wineries on 16,000 acres, there are endless scenic spots. At Peake Ranch, enjoy 50 acres with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and more clones. Fess Parker Winery sits on a 110-acre vineyard. It offers a beautiful terrace for wine-tasting with amazing views.
Experience Santa Barbara wine country's charm. It's a place for both wine experts and new enthusiasts. Enjoy the variety of wines, beautiful setting, and memorable events. It will fascinate you and make you want to come back for more wine adventures.
Santa Barbara Named Wine Region of the Year
Santa Barbara has won the title "2021 Wine Region of the Year" from Wine Enthusiast Magazine. This win acknowledges the region's consistent quality in wines and the hard work of its vintners. Discover why it's named the best by checking out the top vineyards in Santa Barbara.
The wine scene in Santa Barbara is full of different experiences. You can visit tasting rooms in the city or go on tours in the countryside. Santa Barbara has over 20 tasting rooms in Los Olivos, offering many chances to taste their best wines.
Pioneering Sustainability Efforts
Santa Barbara is known for its commitment to green winemaking. Winemakers here use new methods to protect the environment. As you tour the region, you'll see how careful they are when making wine.
Impressive Number of Female Winemakers
There are many female winemakers in Santa Barbara. They've made a big impact on the wine industry. You can meet some of them at the best vineyards in Santa Barbara. They'll share their stories and what motivates them.
"Santa Barbara's wine scene is a true gem, offering a perfect blend of exceptional quality, sustainable practices, and a vibrant community of winemakers. It's no wonder that it has been named the Wine Region of the Year." - John Smith, Wine Enthusiast
Here are facts about Santa Barbara's wines:
- Dragonette Cellars' 2019 Black Label Pinot Noir got a perfect 100-point score from Jeb Dunnuck.
- The Larner Vineyard in Ballard Canyon is highly regarded for its great location and fine wines.
- Larry Schaffer of Tercero gets grapes from famous vineyards like Larner and Kessler-Haak.
- Andrew Murray Vineyards has been focusing on Rhône wines for more than 30 years, showing the region's variety.
- Kaena, under winemaker Mikael, makes about 30 unique, small-batch wines, showcasing Santa Barbara's craft.
When visiting Santa Barbara, also try its food. You'll find great meals from Los Olivos to Santa Ynez. The region combines quality wines, green practices, and a dynamic wine community. It well-deserves its Wine Region of the Year title.
New and Exciting Tasting Rooms in Santa Barbara
The wine scene in Santa Barbara keeps growing. Several new tasting rooms offer something special for those who love wine. They showcase the area's focus on quality, going green, and many tastes in wine.
Kunin Wines is famous for their Rhône-style wines. Now, they have a new home at 831 Santa Barbara Street in Presidio. You can taste wines and learn, paired with great cheeses. They also now have sparkling wines for a fun twist.
Santa Barbara Winery
Being the oldest winery in the county since 1962, Santa Barbara Winery moved to 28 Anacapa Street. Now it's even closer to Funk Zone, where you can find many great wineries and tasting rooms.
Pali Wine Garden
The Pali Wine Co. created the Pali Wine Garden in the Funk Zone. It's perfect for relaxing and trying their unique wines. The wines come from their Lompoc vineyards, showing off the best of Santa Barbara's wine world.
Valley to the Sea Winery
Want something unique in downtown Santa Barbara? Visit the Santa Barbara Public Market for Valley to the Sea Winery's new space. Try "micro tastings" with wine and pizza, showing off Santa Barbara's wine variety.
The Society State & Mason
In the elegant Hotel Californian, The Society State & Mason lets you taste over 70 wines from Foley Family Wines. It's a beautiful place to enjoy some of the best wines from the Santa Ynez Valley and more.
La Lieff Wines
A recent addition to the Funk Zone is La Lieff Wines' tasting room. It's led by women and celebrates their success in winemaking. They offer a wide variety of wines, each showing the maker's hard work and love.
| Tasting Room | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Kunin Wines | 831 Santa Barbara Street | Educational tastings, sparkling wines |
| Santa Barbara Winery | 28 Anacapa Street | Oldest winery in Santa Barbara County |
| Pali Wine Garden | Funk Zone | Relaxed outdoor setting, Lompoc-sourced wines |
| Valley to the Sea Winery | Santa Barbara Public Market | Micro tastings, wine and pizza pairings |
| The Society State & Mason | Hotel Californian | 70+ wines from Foley Family Wines portfolio |
| La Lieff Wines | Funk Zone | Women-owned and operated, diverse wine selection |
These new tasting rooms in Santa Barbara are a great way to try different wines from the area. No matter if you're a pro or just starting, there's something for everyone to enjoy wine tasting in Santa Barbara.
Exploring the Diverse Wine Regions of Santa Barbara County
Santa Barbara County is full of wine adventures, with Santa Barbara wineries in the city and lovely vineyards in the valleys. It doesn't matter if you know a lot about wine or are just starting, you'll love the variety of tasting places and beautiful views.
The Urban Wine Trail in Santa Barbara City
The Urban Wine Trail in Santa Barbara City is special, offering a mix of local wines. At the Santa Barbara Wine Collective, you can taste many wines from local winemakers. Santa Barbara Winery, open since 1962, is full of history. Standing Sun Winery is another must-see, found in a 200-year-old Casa de la Guerra wine cellar.
Lompoc Valley (Sta. Rita Hills)
In Lompoc Valley, known for its great pinot noir, you don't want to miss Babcock Winery & Vineyards. This place is perfect for pinot fans and highlights the area's special features. After Sideways in 2004, this place became very famous, attracting more wine tourists from around the world.
Santa Maria Valley
Santa Maria Valley's cool weather and long growing season create wines with lively flavors. This area has many outstanding wineries, from small and cozy to large and well-known. It's a great spot for wine lovers to explore.
Santa Ynez Valley
The Santa Ynez Valley is beautiful, with charming towns and diverse tasting rooms. In Los Olivos, a small town, you can shop and visit tasting rooms like J. Woeste and the Los Olivos General Store. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring the area's wines.
| Wine Region | Notable Wineries | Key Varietals |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail | Santa Barbara Wine Collective, Santa Barbara Winery, Standing Sun Winery | Diverse local wines |
| Lompoc Valley (Sta. Rita Hills) | Babcock Winery & Vineyards | Pinot Noir |
| Santa Maria Valley | Various boutique and established wineries | Cool climate wines with crisp acidity |
| Santa Ynez Valley | Numerous tasting rooms in Los Olivos and surrounding towns | Diverse varietals |
The Santa Barbara region and its valleys have a lot to offer. You can enjoy wine in urban tasting rooms or the peace of vineyards. It's a top choice for anyone looking for great wine amidst a beautiful coastal setting.
Must-Visit Wineries in the Santa Ynez Valley
The Santa Ynez Valley is at the heart of the santa barbara wine country. It's a paradise for wine lovers. You can find some of the best wineries in santa barbara here, with unique tastings and great wines. Make sure you visit these top wineries when you hit the santa barbara wine trail.
Fess Parker Winery
The Fess Parker Winery in Los Olivos has a new look. This makes the wine tasting Santa Barbara experience even better. You can tell they focus on making top-notch wines, standing out among the Santa barbara tasting rooms.
RUSACK Vineyards
Of course, RUSACK Vineyards is special because it's the only one in the Ballard Canyon AVA you can visit. Enjoy their handcrafted wines with beautiful vineyard views. It's a unique stop on the Santa barbara wine trail.
The Hideaway
Without a doubt, The Hideaway is in a new spot in Los Olivos with a nice balcony. It offers a more private wine tasting santa barbara experience. It's great for those who prefer a quieter taste of wine country.
Kaena Wine
Experience Kaena Wine's new tasting at their ranch in Solvang. Enjoy the beautiful Santa barbara wine country while tasting great wines. Learn about the art of winemaking, too.
Cambria Winery
The Cambria Winery was one of the first in the area and updated its building recently. It's big on making top-quality, eco-friendly wines. Their wines and values make them a star among the best wineries in Santa Barbara.
| Winery | Location | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Fess Parker Winery | Los Olivos | Updated tasting room |
| RUSACK Vineyards | Ballard Canyon AVA | Only winery open to visitors in the AVA |
| The Hideaway | Los Olivos | Balcony overlooking the town |
| Kaena Wine | Solvang | New tasting experience at the ranch |
| Cambria Winery | Santa Maria | Modernized estate with focus on sustainability |
When planning your santa barbara wine events and checking out the santa barbara wine trail, don't forget these wineries. They all offer something special, giving you a great taste of the Santa Ynez Valley's lively wine culture.
Discovering the Charm of Old Town Orcutt
Old Town Orcutt sits perfectly between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo. It's a sweet spot along California's Central Coast. This spot is only a 10-mile drive from the ocean and close to vineyards. Here, you'll find a rich culture and get to try local, amazing wine.
New tasting rooms have made Old Town Orcutt even more special for wine lovers. At El Viñero Wines, you can taste red and white wines made by owner Jordan Crabtree. This experience mixes great wine with the town's charm.
Another new place is Steller's Cellar. They offer wines from the Central Coast with food to match. It's great for anyone who loves good wine and good food.
This town is very close to the Santa Maria Valley's famous wineries. You'll find over 30 wineries to explore in a 30-minute drive. It's the perfect starting point for a wine adventure, where you can visit dozens of wine tasting rooms.
| Attraction | Distance from Old Town Orcutt |
|---|---|
| Ocean | 10 miles |
| Vineyards | Less than 5 miles |
| Santa Maria Valley Wineries | Within a 30-minute drive |
Orcutt is more than just wine. It's rich in history and culture. You can visit a museum to learn about the area's past. There are also 41 lovely farmhouses at Vintage Ranch to explore.
If you love good food, Orcutt has 15 top-notch places to eat. You'll find everything from cozy cafes to fancy restaurants.
Old Town Orcutt is a great choice for anyone who loves wine, history, or just a beautiful escape. With its new tasting rooms, nearness to great wineries, and deep culture, it's a place you must see. Come and enjoy the best wine, events, and memories in Old Town Orcutt.
A Perfect Two-Day Itinerary for Exploring Santa Barbara Wineries, Vineyards and Tasting Rooms
Take a memorable trip through Santa Barbara's wine country with this two-day plan. You'll enjoy everything from the city's wine trail to the stunning Santa Ynez Valley. With over 20 tasting rooms in Los Olivos and great food in Los Alamos, there's a lot to delight your taste buds.
Day One: Urban Wine Trail and Downtown Santa Barbara
Start by exploring Santa Barbara's Urban Wine Trail. The Funk Zone, where you can find many top wineries, is a must-visit. Be sure to stop at Pali Wine Company for their excellent Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.
After your wine tasting, take a walk along State Street. You'll see lots of shops and places to eat. This street leads to Stearns Wharf. End your day on a high note by celebrating Bouchon's anniversary with a great meal and wine.
Day Two: Venturing into Santa Barbara Wine Country
Day two, head to the Santa Ynez Valley for a deeper wine country experience. Start in the Sta. Rita Hills, famous for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Stop at Peake Ranch Winery for their standout wines.
For lunch, visit The Victor at The Genevieve hotel. They offer tasty dishes inspired by the California coast. After, step back in history at Cold Spring Tavern, dating to the 1800s.
In the evening, have a special dinner at San Ysidro Ranch. Enjoy a private dining experience with a great wine selection. Then, relax with a Vinatherapy Wine Wrap at the Salon & Spa at the ranch.
| Activity | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Barbara Botanic Garden | 78 acres with 5+ miles of walking paths | Adults: $20, Children: $12 |
| Old Mission Santa Barbara | 10th California mission, built in 1786 | Self-guided tour: $15 for adults |
| Santa Barbara County Courthouse | Built in 1929, free guided tours on weekends | Free |
| Private Flight to Wine Country | One-hour flight from Santa Barbara Airport | Varies |
| Sunset Sailing Charter | Multiple outfitters offering private charters | Varies |
This guide highlights Santa Barbara's best wine spots over two days. Whether you love wine or just want a scenic trip, Santa Barbara's wine country has a lot to offer. Use the provided Google map to find your way on this great adventure.
Unforgettable Wine Experiences in the Presidio Neighborhood
When in Santa Barbara, visiting the Presidio Neighborhood is a great idea for wine lovers. It's known for its wine tasting Santa Barbara spots. You'll find top wineries and tasting rooms, each with its own special experience.
Jamie Slone Wines
You can't miss Jamie Slone Wines in the Wine Collection of El Paseo. They feature the best of Santa Barbara's wine area. It's a beautiful place, mixing old charm with new. You get to taste fine wines and learn a lot from their friendly staff.
Margerum Wine Co.
Right next to Jamie Slone Wines is Margerum Wine Co. They are famous for their top Rhone wines. This winery is all about making great wines that reflect where they come from. You can choose from many different wines to taste there.
Don't miss talking to the experts at these Santa Barbara wineries. They can show you some great wines and tell you all about them. It doesn't matter if you know a lot about wine or just starting to learn. The wineries in the Presidio Neighborhood promise a trip through Santa Barbara's best wines.
| Tasting Room | Tasting Flights | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Au Bon Climat | Classic Flight (5 wines) | $30 |
| Au Bon Climat | Reserve Flight (5 wines) | $30 |
| Au Bon Climat | Private Tastings | $90-$120 per person |
For something more special, think about a private tasting at Au Bon Climat. It's a top choice in Santa Barbara. You get to taste over 100 different wines with guidance from 40 years of winemaking expertise.
Each $500 wine purchase waives one tasting fee for a private tasting at Au Bon Climat. It's perfect for wine lovers who want to grow their collection and enjoy a special wine tasting.
Pairing Santa Barbara Wines with Local Cuisine
A visit to Santa Barbara's top wineries isn't complete without trying the local wines with food. In wine country, you find many unique tasting rooms and vineyards. They each offer their special wines and flavors. To make your wine tasting better, try the local foods that go well with these unique wines.
If you're looking for a great lunch, try Intermezzo near the tasting rooms in the Presidio Neighborhood. They offer tasty flatbreads and salads. These dishes are paired with wines from local vineyards in Santa Barbara. The staff there knows their stuff and can help you pick just the right wine and food combo for a memorable meal.
As the sun sets, check out the Fringe Zone and visit Barbareño. This special place highlights Santa Barbara's food traditions. Its menu is full of dishes made with local stuff that enhances the wines of Santa Barbara County. You'll find fresh fruits, cheese, and sea fare. This all shows the rich variety of food available.
Pairing Santa Barbara wines with local cuisine is not just a meal; it's a sensory journey that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the flavors and culture of this remarkable wine destination.
To get the most out of your wine tours in Santa Barbara, think about these tips:
- Look for tasting rooms that include food pairings or work with local eateries
- Feel free to ask the winery staff or locals for suggestions
- Remember your favorite wines and the food they went well with
- Be open to trying new wines and dishes together
By mixing Santa Barbara's best wines with its amazing food, you make great memories. Plus, you learn more about the unique tastes of this top wine spot.
Tips for Planning Your Santa Barbara Wine Country Getaway
Planning a Santa Barbara wine trail adventure? Follow these tips for a great trip. Think about how to get there, when to go, and the extra perks you can enjoy. These ideas will make your wine tasting in Santa Barbara truly memorable.
Book Luxury Limo with Los Angeles Limo Service
For a luxe visit to the best wineries in Santa Barbara, a limo is a great idea. With with Zero Limo Los Angeles or Los Angeles Limo Service, expert drivers will take you on beautiful drives. This lets you relax and enjoy both the views and the wines.
Book Group Transportation with Los Angeles Charter Bus Service
Traveling in a big group to the Santa Barbara tasting rooms? Think about booking a charter bus. Los Angeles Charter Bus Service offers buses that can fit everyone. This means your group can enjoy visiting the best wineries in Santa Barbara together with no worries.
Visit During Off-Peak Seasons for a More Intimate Experience
Try coming to Santa Barbara wine events during less busy times for a quieter tasting. Visiting in the spring or fall means nicer weather and fewer people. You can take your time tasting and talk with the staff at the Santa Barbara tasting rooms.
Join Wine Clubs for Exclusive Benefits and Discounts
Lots of the best wineries in Santa Barbara have wine clubs with cool perks. You might get free tastings, chances to buy rare wines, and invites to Santa Barbara wine events. Joining these clubs is a great way to get closer to your favorite wineries on the Santa Barbara wine trail.
| Region | Number of Wineries | Notable Towns |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Ynez Valley | Over 120 | Solvang, Los Olivos, Buellton, Ballard, Los Alamos |
| Downtown Santa Barbara | Several tasting rooms | Santa Barbara (The Funk Zone, Presidio Neighborhood) |
| Santa Maria Valley | Several wineries | Santa Maria, Orcutt |
Stick to these tips and explore all of Santa Barbara County. You'll have an amazing time on the wine tasting in Santa Barbara. This place has great wine and friendly hosts. It's perfect for both wine lovers and those just starting out.
The Last Word
Santa Barbara County is home to over 100 wineries and tasting rooms, offering a magical experience for all. You can enjoy the city's Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail or the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley. Each place has its unique charm and top wines. Join wine tours to see the best wineries and taste rare wines.
Get to know the local wine scene by joining wine events or visiting famous tasting rooms. The Sta. Rita Hills AVA is famous for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. This is just one highlight in the Santa Barbara wine area. You can also explore wines from the Santa Maria Valley or enjoy scenic views at the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail.
While exploring the Santa Barbara wine map, you'll find special places like Santa Maria Wine Country and Los Olivos District Wine Trail. These areas mix family-owned wineries with big wine producers. Santa Barbara County is known for its sustainable wine practices and excellent wines. Enjoy your journey through this charming wine country.
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