Journey Through Santa Barbara’s Premier Vineyards

This summer I reveled in the opportunity to traverse the vine-strewn expanses of Santa Barbara Wine Country, a treasure trove of over 300 wineries, each catering to a diverse palette of taste buds. As a dedicated Santa Barbara wine writer, each visit to these local vineyards is both a discovery and a homecoming. The region, known for its unique east-west facing valleys and diverse microclimates, is ideal for viticulture, setting it apart from other wine regions. Its cool marine air funneled by these mountains creates a microclimate ripe for viticulture, offering a prolonged growing season and ideal conditions for a wide array of grape varietals. While there are numerous fabulous wineries to explore, each with its own charm and specialty, the four I highlight here are perfect starting points for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the world-class wines of Santa Ynez Valley.

The Hilt & Jonata Winery

In 2014, The Hilt Winery took a significant step by purchasing Rancho Salsipuedes, located on the southwestern edge of the Sta. Rita Hills. This strategic move included the construction of a modern hospitality complex and estate winery. The Hilt & Jonata, a family-owned marvel established in 2004, excels in producing pinot noir and chardonnay that reflect the nuanced elegance under the expert guidance of winemaker Matt Dees. The Barn at The Hilt Estate offers an extensive tasting lineup that spans the rich profiles of both The Hilt and JONATA estates, creating an unparalleled wine-tasting adventure.

Au Bon Climat

Founded in 1982 by Jim Clendenen and Adam Tolmach, Au Bon Climat specializes in Burgundian-style wines. The winery itself is situated in the northern reaches of Santa Barbara County, but it’s the charming tasting room in downtown Santa Barbara’s historic Presidio neighborhood that captures the essence of their craft. Here, wine lovers can explore a vast array of vintages, from the well-loved chardonnay and pinot noir to a selection of rare varietals. Each tasting explores the delicate balance between European tradition and the innovative spirit of the New World, guided by knowledgeable staff.

Folded Hills

At Folded Hills Winery, Kim and Andy Busch planted 15 acres of Rhône varietals in 2014 on their expansive 600-acre ranch in Gaviota, officially establishing the winery. This beautiful estate invites guests to connect with the land through its organically farmed vineyards and taste wines that reflect the region’s rich viticultural heritage. The tasting room offers breathtaking views and a direct link to the origins of each wine, providing a true sense of place that is as educational as it is enchanting.

Beckmen Vineyards

Beckmen Vineyards stands as a testament to biodynamic farming, being the first in Santa Barbara County to adopt this holistic approach when founded in 1994 by Tom and Judy Beckmen. The vineyard specializes in Rhône varietals, cultivated with a commitment to environmental stewardship and pure expression of terroir. The estate’s iconic red barn and duck pond create a pastoral setting that is quintessentially wine country. The vineyard’s commitment to biodynamic farming not only ensures the production of high-quality wines but also contributes to the preservation of the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Santa Barbara Wine Country’s allure lies not only in its scenic landscapes and unique east-west mountain ranges but also in the dedicated vintners who nurture this land with their unwavering commitment and passion. The cool, marine air funneled by these mountains creates a microclimate ripe for viticulture, offering a prolonged growing season and ideal conditions for a wide array of grape varietals. Each winery visited represents a chapter in the ongoing story of this extraordinary wine region, inviting you to experience its vibrancy and diversity firsthand. As we explore these exceptional estates together, each bottle uncorks a narrative of passion, place, and the pursuit of perfection.

I invite you to join me in celebrating the spirit of Santa Barbara Wine Country – a region where every vine tells a story and every glass beckons a toast to the sublime. Let’s raise our glasses and embark on this
journey together.