When the winter chill sets in and the holiday season begins, there’s no better way for couples to unwind and reconnect than on a winter wine tour. With its award-winning wineries and romantic views, Santa Barbara is an enchanting escape for lovebirds looking to savor the season.
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply seeking a romantic getaway, our curated guide can help you look forward to a wine tour with breathtaking beauty, cozy tasting rooms, and exquisite local wines. So, uncork a bottle and join us as we dive into the perfect wine tours for couples in Santa Barbara.
Winter Wine Wonderland: Must-Stop Spots
Every wine tour in Santa Barbara should include visiting the wine country. There are so many quality vineyards in the area that it can be hard to determine which wineries you should explore. For this list, we aimed for locations that blend the best of ambiance, scenery, and, of course, wines! Our favorite destinations include:
- Babcock Winery: For the wine tasters who like to keep it old-school. Relax to their curated playlist of nostalgic 70s and 80s jams while you sip and check out this charming and hip location in Sta. Rita Hills AVA.
- Cambria Estate Winery: Located in Santa Maria Valley and renowned for its award-winning Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. The scenic trip to this winery would make for a great day trip from the inn.
- Presqu’ile Wines: This modern estate is on our list for its stunning modern architecture and immaculate grounds. It’s the perfect place to have a romantic picnic after an afternoon sampling its sparkling wines. You can purchase a la carte, but no outside food is permitted.
- Sunstone Winery: Nestled in the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley, this winery is a little closer to the inn for visitors to Santa Barbara who don’t want to make a day trip. It offers organic offerings and a beautiful courtyard.
- Strange Family Vineyards: This vineyard produces extraordinary Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in Sta. Rita Hills AVA.
Seasonal Pairings
Wherever you go tasting, there are some general things to be aware of. Elevate your winter wine tours in Santa Barbara with seasonal pairings that enhance the tasting experience. Just as two people complement each other in a relationship, certain foods draw out tones and flavors in wine.
A rich, full-bodied red like Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon perfectly complements hearty winter dishes such as braised short ribs or mushroom risotto. For white wine enthusiasts, a crisp Chardonnay pairs beautifully with creamy winter soups and roasted poultry. Local wineries (including the ones listed here) often feature special winter menus or have pairing menus of their own. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. You’ll be creating a harmonious blend of flavors that celebrate the season.
Scenic Wine Routes
Heading out on a wine trail is one of the most romantic things to do in Santa Barbara. The wineries we listed earlier take you through the heart of Santa Barbara’s wine country without taking you too far from the city’s cultural hub. If you want to get out and enjoy the scenery, these trails are renowned for their breathtaking routes. They combine picturesque landscapes and delightful vineyard experiences.
The Foxen Canyon Wine Trail meanders through rolling hills and lush vineyards. Along the trail are acclaimed wineries Foxen Vineyard and Zaca Mesa. Those looking to experience California’s ranching roots will enjoy the Santa Ynez Wine Trail near Solvang and Los Olivos. These vineyards share space with horse ranches, and tasting rooms are set on serene estate properties. Enjoy a picnic among rolling vistas and savor wine at a leisurely, ranch-style pace.
Sta. Rita Hills AVA offers dramatic coastal vistas and top-tier Pinot Noir and Chardonnay producers. It also includes some of the region’s most extreme cool-climate vineyards in Santa Barbara. Each route gives you a glimpse into the region’s beauty and wine heritage.
Those looking to stay in downtown Santa Barbara will not be disappointed! The Urban Wine Trail has several routes that take you through the heart of downtown, featuring various tasting rooms from celebrated local wineries. Each route offers a convenient yet immersive journey into Santa Barbara’s vibrant wine culture.
One of our favorite trails on this list is the Funk Zone, which offers a trendy, artistic atmosphere, boutique wineries, and unique tasting experiences. For a coastal twist, the Santa Barbara Coastal Route combines ocean views with stops at beachfront wineries, providing a delightful blend of scenery and flavor.
Wine and Dine: Best Dinner Spots
Standing amid the red-tile clay roofs and white stucco walls of Santa Barbara makes it feel as if you’re visiting Spain. Our city has some of the best Spanish restaurants in the area, like Milk and Honey or Loquita Santa Barbara. Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at Toma Restaurant and Bar, or savor fresh seafood with ocean views at The Lark in the Funk Zone.
Bouchon serves locally sourced French-Californian dishes paired with regional wines for a cozy, intimate setting. Opal Restaurant and Bar offers a warm ambiance and eclectic menu, perfect for ending a day of wine tasting. Each spot provides a memorable dining experience to complement your wine tour. It’s a great way to wrap up a day of wine tasting in Santa Barbara downtown.
Sip, Savor, and Stay: Enhance Your Getaway
Elevate your couple’s wine tour experience in Santa Barbara with a thoughtfully curated package. Packages at The Eagle Inn provide seamless and luxurious getaways, combining accommodations, exclusive wine tastings, and gourmet meals. Start your wine tour in a cozy, romantic room with a welcome bottle of local wine and chocolate-covered strawberries.
Start each morning with our complimentary, hot gourmet breakfast and add a massage to unwind after a long day of exploration. Enhancing your trip with these packages helps you plan a stress-free escape, perfect for rekindling romance amidst the stunning vineyards of Santa Barbara.
Plan Your Winter Wine Adventures
With our charming, cozy rooms, casitas, and exceptional hospitality, The Eagle Inn provides a relaxing retreat after exploring local wineries. Conveniently located near downtown and the Urban Wine Trail, we offer easy access to some of the area’s best tasting rooms and scenic routes. We can help plan your itinerary, ensuring you experience the finest wines and most romantic spots Santa Barbara offers.
Book now to enhance your romantic winter wine tour with its blend of comfort, convenience, and personalized service.
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