10 of The Best Wineries in Santa Barbara

10 of The Best Wineries in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, California, often referred to as the ‘American Riviera,’ boasts more than its landscapes, towering palm trees, and Mediterranean climate. The region is a revered wine country, home to some of the world’s finest wineries and vineyards.

 With its unique east-west mountain range orientation creating diverse microclimates, Santa Barbara allows a plethora of grapes to thrive, giving rise to distinctive and highly acclaimed wines. Here are ten of the best wineries in this magnificent region.

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1. Au Bon Climat

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Founded in 1982, Au Bon Climat (which translates to a well-exposed vineyard) holds a revered place in the pantheon of California winemaking. The winery is located in Santa Maria Valley, a northern region in Santa Barbara County renowned for its cool-climate varietals.

Jim Clendenen, the man behind Au Bon Climat, is a luminary in the world of winemaking. Known for his artisanal approach and passion, he has been instrumental in establishing Santa Barbara as a significant wine region on the global stage. Under Clendenen’s guidance, Au Bon Climat focuses on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, demonstrating the potential these grapes hold in the terroir of Santa Barbara.

Clendenen’s winemaking style is often described as ‘Burgundian,’ emphasizing elegance, balance, and complexity over power and opulence. His wines reflect the unique character of each vineyard, and his artisanal approach results in limited production runs that are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors.

Au Bon Climat sources its grapes from several vineyards, including the iconic Bien Nacido and the estate-owned Le Bon Climat Vineyard. Both vineyards are located in the Santa Maria Valley AVA, a region celebrated for its long growing season and well-drained soils. This environment allows the grapes to mature slowly, developing full flavors while maintaining their natural acidity, which is crucial for producing balanced wines.

The winery’s tasting room, located in downtown Santa Barbara, offers an intimate experience with a wide selection of current releases and library wines. Visitors can enjoy the complex and harmonious flavors of Au Bon Climat’s Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs, as well as other varieties occasionally produced.

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Clendenen’s dedication to producing high-quality, distinctive wines has not gone unnoticed. Au Bon Climat has received numerous accolades over the years, including Clendenen’s recognition by the James Beard Foundation for his contributions to the wine industry.

2. Babcock Winery

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Babcock Winery is a family-owned and operated winery located in the Santa Ynez Valley, which is an AVA (American Viticultural Area) known for its cool climate and sandy soils. It was founded in 1978 by Bryan Babcock and his parents, Mona and Walter Babcock. The winery is known for its award-winning chardonnays, Pinot Noir, and Syrahs.

The 65-acre estate is exceptionally positioned between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, a location offering a cool maritime climate ideal for the growth and maturation of cool-climate varietals, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These are the cornerstone of Babcock’s portfolio, along with a handful of other varietals like Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah.

Bryan Babcock, their son, and a renowned winemaker, joined the family venture in 1984. Known for his innovative techniques and keen attention to detail, Bryan’s winemaking philosophy orbits around capturing the essence of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA in every bottle. His dedication has earned Babcock numerous accolades, and Wine Spectator named him one of the top ten small-production winemakers in the world.

At Babcock, sustainability is more than just a buzzword; it’s an integral part of their operations. The winery practices environmentally friendly viticulture and was among the early adopters of farming with a reduced reliance on chemicals.

In 2005, the Babcock family revolutionized their tasting experience by introducing the concept of a “retro-rock & roll” tasting room. This eclectic space is decorated with vintage items, creating a unique ambiance that reflects Babcock’s distinct personality and enhances the wine-tasting journey. Visitors can taste a selection of their wines while enjoying the panoramic views of the Sta. Rita Hills.

Babcock Winery is a popular destination for wine lovers from all over the world. It is a great place to learn about winemaking, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Santa Ynez Valley.

 3. Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard

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 Nestled in the enchanting Santa Ynez Valley of Santa Barbara County, the Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard is a testament to the vision of the late Fess Parker. The iconic actor, best known for his roles as Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone planted the first vines in 1989 and set the stage for what would become a revered family winery.

The 715-acre ranch, with its gently rolling hills and beautifully manicured vineyards, enjoys a climate tempered by cool coastal influences, ideal for growing a diverse range of grape varietals. Specializing in the production of classic Burgundian and Rhône wine varietals, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, and Viognier, Fess Parker Winery has established a reputation for crafting wines of exceptional quality and character.

Eli Parker, Fess’s son, took the helm as head winemaker in the winery’s formative years. Today, under the continued stewardship of the Parker family and winemaker Blair Fox, Fess Parker Winery consistently produces high-quality wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the region.

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The winery is committed to a philosophy of quality at all stages of the winemaking process, from grape to glass. This commitment extends to sustainable vineyard practices, including organic farming methods and water conservation, demonstrating the Parker family’s dedication to preserving the land for future generations.

Fess Parker Winery offers a rustic, elegant tasting room set against the backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Here, visitors can savor a carefully curated selection of the winery’s current releases. The winery also offers vineyard tours and private tastings, providing an in-depth look at the vine-to-wine process.

Outside of the tasting room, the winery’s picturesque grounds are perfect for a leisurely picnic, complete with a glass of Fess Parker wine, of course. For those looking for a more immersive experience, the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn in nearby Los Olivos provides a luxurious stay, where guests can further explore the flavors and hospitality of the Fess Parker brand.

The legacy of Fess Parker Winery extends beyond its acclaimed wines. The winery continues to embody Fess Parker’s pioneering spirit, his love for the Santa Ynez Valley, and his unwavering commitment to producing wines of uncompromising quality and character. It stands as a cherished destination for wine lovers and a proud testament to the bounty of Santa Barbara’s wine country.

4. Demetria Estate

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Poised atop the rolling hills of Santa Ynez Valley’s Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, Demetria Estate is a family-owned winery that seamlessly blends old-world charm with new-world innovation. Its 213-acre property, with 38 acres dedicated to vineyards, is a true haven for wine lovers seeking to explore exceptional Rhône and Burgundian varietals in the heart of Santa Barbara’s wine country.

The estate, established in 2005 by the Zahoudanis family, enjoys the unique climatic conditions of this part of Santa Barbara County. Cool ocean breezes and abundant sunshine, combined with the diverse soils, create an ideal environment for growing Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Viognier (Rhône varietals), as well as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir (Burgundian varietals).

In the vineyard, Demetria Estate champions biodynamic farming practices, seeking to nurture the soil and vines in a way that maintains ecological balance. This commitment to sustainable viticulture carries into the winemaking process, where minimal intervention allows the true expression of the terroir to shine through in every bottle.

Demetria Estate’s approach to winemaking emphasizes creating wines that reflect the uniqueness of each vintage. With winemaker Harry Waye at the helm, they create small-lot wines renowned for their depth, complexity, and age-ability. The combination of Waye’s artistry and the estate’s exceptional fruit results in wines that celebrate the harmony of nature and nurture.

Visitors to Demetria Estate are treated to a captivating experience. The Mediterranean-style estate provides panoramic vistas of the vineyard and surrounding valley, a perfect backdrop for savoring their wines. Tastings are by appointment only, ensuring a serene, intimate experience as you explore their Rhône and Burgundian flights.

5. Foxen Vineyard & Winery

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The story of Foxen Vineyard & Winery began in 1985, when two friends, Dick Doré and Bill Wathen, decided to follow their passion for winemaking and establish their winery. Located in the scenic Santa Maria Valley in Santa Barbara County, Foxen has become a symbol of sustainable viticulture and quality winemaking over the decades.

The vineyard and winery are named after the English sea captain William Benjamin Foxen, Dick’s great-great-grandfather, who bought a Mexican Land Grant in this beautiful corner of Santa Barbara back in the 1800s. Today, the iconic wooden shack tasting room, known as “The Foxen Shack,” proudly carries his anchor insignia.

The maritime influence from the nearby Pacific Ocean, combined with the region’s varied soil types, creates a unique microclimate that is ideal for growing a wide range of grape varietals. Foxen is best known for its exceptional Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and a range of Rhône wines. 

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In 2009, Foxen opened a new solar-powered winery and tasting room, Foxen 7200, focused on their Bordeaux and Cal-Ital-style wines. This addition allows visitors to choose between two distinct tasting experiences – the historic Foxen Shack, where Burgundian and Rhône-style wines are served, or the modern Foxen 7200, where Bordeaux and Italian varietals take center stage.

Bill Wathen, as head winemaker, continues to uphold Foxen’s commitment to creating high-quality, expressive wines. His skillful winemaking has consistently been recognized by critics and wine enthusiasts alike, helping to solidify Foxen’s reputation as one of Santa Barbara’s top wineries.

Foxen Vineyard & Winery continues to honor its heritage while looking toward the future. With sustainable practices, quality-driven winemaking, and a warm, inviting ambiance, Foxen encapsulates the authentic wine country experience.

6. Sanford Winery

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Founded in 1971, Sanford Winery is a pioneering force that helped to shape and define the Santa Barbara wine region, particularly the Sta. Rita Hills AVA (American Viticultural Area).

When co-founders Michael Benedict and Richard Sanford planted their initial vineyard, they became the first to introduce Pinot Noir to the Sta. Rita Hills. Their belief in the region’s potential for this grape has since been rewarded, as it is now renowned for producing some of the finest Pinot Noirs in California.

Sanford Winery, set in the heart of the Sta. Rita Hills benefits from the area’s unique transverse valley orientation, which allows cool Pacific Ocean breezes to funnel inland, moderating the vineyard’s temperatures.

The vineyards also feature soils rich in marine-based sediment, providing ideal conditions for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the winery’s flagship varietals.

Since its inception, the winery has been dedicated to sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices. The vineyards are farmed using a mix of traditional techniques and innovative technology to optimize vine health, promote biodiversity, and ensure the highest quality fruit.

Visitors to Sanford Winery can taste the fruits of this dedication in their elegant, Adobe-style tasting room. The room overlooks the vineyards and offers panoramic views of the Sta. Rita Hills. An extensive selection of tastings and tours provide an intimate look at the winery’s history, vineyards, and winemaking process.

From its historic Sanford & Benedict Vineyard to the state-of-the-art winemaking facility and charming tasting room, Sanford Winery represents a harmonious blend of history, innovation, and terroir-driven wines. The dedication to sustainable practices and the pursuit of quality in every bottle makes Sanford Winery a must-visit destination on any Santa Barbara wine tour.

7. Rusack Vineyards

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Hidden away in the hills of Ballard Canyon in Santa Barbara County, Rusack Vineyards is a boutique winery that exudes charm and sophistication. A visit to Rusack offers an intimate exploration of Santa Barbara’s wine region, a taste of exceptional wines, and an escape into the tranquil beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Rusack Vineyards was revitalized in 1995 by Geoffrey Rusack and Alison Wrigley Rusack, whose dedication and vision have guided the estate to its present-day acclaim. Known for producing limited quantities of world-class wines, Rusack primarily focuses on Bordeaux and Rhône varietals, but it has also gained recognition for pioneering the growth of Zinfandel and Syrah on Santa Catalina Island.

The 48-acre vineyard benefits from the unique maritime climate of Ballard Canyon, with its warm days and cool nights. This environment, coupled with the vineyard’s diverse soil composition, is perfect for cultivating high-quality grapes. The vineyard has been carefully planted to take advantage of these optimal conditions, with vines of Syrah, Grenache, and other varietals carefully tucked into the sun-dappled folds of the hillside.

Rusack’s winemaking philosophy centers on crafting wines that express the distinctive characteristics of their estate vineyards and the unique terroir of the Santa Barbara region. Winemaker Steven Gerbac, a native of Santa Barbara County, brings a deep understanding of the region and a passion for precision to his craft, producing wines with balance, elegance, and a sense of place.

The tasting room at Rusack Vineyards is a welcoming haven, where guests can sample an array of exceptional wines. Rustic and cozy, it overlooks a majestic canopy of oak trees, and the estate’s picnic grounds offer an idyllic spot for a leisurely lunch with a glass of Rusack wine.

8. Brander Vineyard

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Located in the sun-soaked landscape of the Santa Ynez Valley, Brander Vineyard has long been a beacon of exceptional winemaking in Santa Barbara County. Since its establishment in 1975 by Fred Brander, this family-owned and operated winery has earned a reputation for producing world-class Sauvignon Blanc, along with an array of other notable wines.

Fred Brander, a native of Argentine, brought a touch of his homeland’s wine culture to the California coast. Recognizing the region’s potential for growing Bordeaux varietals, he planted his vineyards with Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Today, Brander Vineyard is regarded as one of the original vineyards in the region and a pioneer in producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of Santa Ynez Valley.

Known as the “King of Sauvignon Blanc,” Brander’s approach to winemaking combines old-world traditions with new-world techniques, resulting in wines of remarkable quality and distinctive character. His Sauvignon Blancs, with their bright acidity and fruit-forward profiles, have garnered numerous awards and recognition, firmly establishing the Santa Barbara region as a premier location for this varietal.

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In addition to their signature Sauvignon Blanc, Brander Vineyard produces a variety of other wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and a Bordeaux-style blend, “Cuvée Natalie,” named in honor of Fred Brander’s daughter.

Brander Vineyard offers a delightful tasting experience in its beautiful Spanish-inspired tasting room. Lush vineyard views surround visitors as they sample the winery’s acclaimed offerings. The vineyard also hosts various events throughout the year, including the annual Brander Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc Release Party, a much-anticipated event on the Santa Barbara wine calendar.

Brander Vineyard embodies the spirit of Santa Barbara winemaking – a blend of tradition and innovation, nurtured by a deep respect for the land and a passion for expressing its richness through wine.

9. Beckmen Vineyards

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Established in 1994, Beckmen Vineyards is one of Santa Barbara County’s premier family-owned wineries. Situated in the rolling hills of Santa Ynez Valley, the Beckmen family has cultivated a stellar reputation for producing Rhône varietal wines that express the unique terroir of the region.

Beckmen Vineyards consists of two estate vineyards – the 125-acre Purisima Mountain Vineyard, located in the Ballard Canyon AVA, and the 40-acre Los Olivos Vineyard in the center of Santa Ynez Valley. Both vineyards benefit from the region’s Mediterranean climate, with its warm days and cool nights, an ideal environment for cultivating Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and other Rhône varietals.

At the helm of winemaking is Steve Beckmen, whose expertise and passion for sustainable farming practices have helped to establish Beckmen Vineyards as a leader in biodynamic farming in Santa Barbara County. This commitment to sustainable viticulture and low-intervention winemaking ensures that the varietal character and terroir of each vineyard are beautifully expressed in every bottle.

Beckmen Vineyards is renowned for its bold, complex wines, particularly its Syrah, which has gained both critical acclaim and a loyal following. Alongside the signature Syrah, the winery offers a variety of other high-quality wines, including Grenache, Roussanne, and their popular estate blend, the Cuvée Le Bec.

Visitors to Beckmen Vineyards are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Purisima Mountain Vineyard, providing a stunning backdrop to their wine-tasting experience. Tastings can be enjoyed in the charming tasting room or on the patio, overlooking the vineyards.

10. Rideau Vineyard

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Situated in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley, Rideau Vineyard is a testament to the rich history and vibrant winemaking culture of Santa Barbara County. Established in 1997 by New Orleans native Iris Rideau, the vineyard stands as an enduring tribute to Rhône varietals, reflecting the founder’s Creole heritage and the unique terroir of Santa Barbara wine country.

The centerpiece of Rideau Vineyard is the historic El Alamo Pintado Adobe, a California State Landmark built in 1884. This charming structure houses the tasting room, where visitors can sample a selection of Rideau’s acclaimed wines, surrounded by the echoes of California’s past.

Rideau’s 16-acre estate vineyard, nestled in the fertile soils of the valley, is ideally suited for Rhône varietals, including Syrah, Viognier, and Roussanne. The warm, sun-drenched days and cool, foggy nights of Santa Ynez Valley, paired with the alluvial and sandy loam soil, provide an ideal environment for these grapes to thrive.

Rideau’s wines are celebrated for their expressiveness, depth, and complexity, an achievement owed in part to the careful, low-intervention winemaking practices employed by the winemaking team. By allowing the wines to naturally express the vineyard’s terroir, they’ve created a portfolio of wines that truly represent the unique character of the Santa Ynez Valley.

Visitors to Rideau Vineyard are warmly welcomed into the historic adobe tasting room, where they can explore a range of Rhône varietals and blends. Each tasting experience is designed to guide guests through the story of Rideau’s wines, accompanied by stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.

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These ten wineries represent just a snapshot of what Santa Barbara has to offer. Each brings to life the diversity, quality, and unique personality of Santa Barbara wines. The best way to appreciate them? Plan a visit and indulge in the remarkable journey of wine tasting, guided by the cool ocean breeze and the region’s mesmerizing beauty.