Santa Barbara is renowned for its Spanish Colonial architecture and sun-dried historical monuments. Scenic panoramas and moderate climate make it a favorite place for a retreat. The broad, sandy beaches beckon you to enjoy the shoreline, take full advantage of the waves or relax watching a sky of warm red, yellow, and orange hues from the setting sun. A thriving aspect of Santa Barbara pertains to its wine. It has developed to the point of rivaling the Napa and Sonoma wine-growing regions. The valleys of the Santa Ynez Mountains are packed with vineyards, and tasting rooms are abundant. Here are the top 10 wineries and wine tasting rooms in Santa Barbara. Consider venturing out on a day of exploration.
If you desire to stay closer to The Eagle Inn, The Urban Wine Trail may be more in line with your preferences. The Eagle Inn is convenient and near the more than two-dozen tasting rooms that await you. Before venturing out, it would be wise to check which wineries are currently open or host a tasting.
1. Au Bon Climat:
Utilizing the most outstanding local vineyards, Au Bon Climat achieves wines of exquisite vision, balance, and character. Their world-class Chardonnays and Pinots identify them as well as other varietals. They aim for a highly structured wine, low in alcohol, and of course, one that tastes great.
2. Jamie Slone Wines:
Jamie Slone Wines is a great place to relax while sipping and savoring some of their current wines. You can enjoy a broad selection of Pinot Noir, Red Blends, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rosé, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and others. The décor and interior are stylish. The atmosphere is fun but also romantic. The wine list is extensive and, more importantly, high quality and flavor that appeals to the palate.
3. Happy Canyon Vineyard:
There is a commitment to reserve the highest quality fruit on their vineyard to produce their wines. Happy Canyon’s Bordeaux varietal wines are 100% estate grown on the family vineyard. Whether it is their bold Bordeaux or bright Sauvignon Blanc, high-quality full-flavored wine is assured.
4. Silver Wines:
Currently, Silver Wines makes Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Nebbiolo, and two proprietary blends in small bottlings. Santa Barbara County is the source of all grapes that are grown at Silver Wines.
5. Municipal Winemakers:
Here you have a small, family-owned winery in Santa Barbara that makes exciting drinks. Municpal’s monthly sampling reaches across different brands enabling you to try what may represent other schools thought in winemaking. It will undoubtedly be interesting to sample wine made in either a progressive, traditional, and natural manner.
6. Paradise Springs Winery:
While this winery is the first bi-coastal winery brand, you’ll find the only location you need to be concerned about is Santa Barbara. Sipping on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Bordeaux will be pleasurable in sunny California. Their tasting room is in the famed “Funk Zone.”
7. Santa Barbara Winery:
Originally a retail store, this wine and cheese shop was a place for wine enthusiasts to gather. The owner eventually decided to go into wine production. Fine wines, primarily French, brought him much joy. The results are award-winning Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and Syrah’s for you to enjoy.
8. RiverBench Vineyards:
RiverBench Vineyards has a reputation for superb Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines. Any of these will provide you with an exceptional experience. Situated in the funk zone, this winery is not far from the harbor or The Eagle Inn.
9. Pali Wine Co:
A practice of doing just what is needed and no more, a minimalistic approach is followed. Pali Wine Co. allows the fruit to act on its behalf. The results are lovely. You’ll enjoy the selection that spans from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay to Rhone and Bordeaux varietals.
10. Melville Winery:
Burgundian and Northern Rhone Varietals has been a principal interest for this vineyard. A focus on purity and quality in the entire winemaking process has resulted in wines that instill pride. Their Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah are 100% estate grown and handmade. For a trial, the tasting room is in the funk zone.
What you have is an excellent starter list. This link will give you added assistance.
More information about exploring SB wine country.
After enjoying a great day in Santa Barbara, especially if that included wine tasting, why not make your evening at The Eagle Inn a taster’s delight. Pick up one of the great vintages you have been sampling. Include some complimentary specialty cheese, savory crackers, and hors d’oeuvres. Enjoy it all while watching the sunset over the ocean. It will warm your heart.
Photo by Tobias Rademacher on Unsplash