Santa Barbara County: What Local Wine has to Offer

by Alexander Pesenti

We have been experiencing lock down for so long we have begun to forget some of the amazing places there are, not far from LA. When suitable, I highly recommend heading north-west on the 101 freeway for about 2 hours. This will take you to the world renowned viticultural areas of Santa Barbara County. to explore some amazing wineries that are nestled among beautiful rolling hills just 30 minutes North of Santa Barbara off the 101 Freeway near Solvang and Buellton. This area of the world is known for varietals such as Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay. Even a few Rhône varietals have been known to grow throughout various parts of the region such as Grenache, Petit Verdot, and you might even find some Mourvèdre in the slightly hotter microclimates. Santa Barbara County is home to many different viticultural areas with various microclimates, here are a few that I choose to highlight.

Vincent Vineyards & Winery of the Los Olivos district, is just south of the San Rafael Mountains. The vines, of the microclimate, at Vincent are able to produce Rhône and hardier Bordeaux varietals. The area receives little ocean breeze and generally sees warmer weather. Producing balanced Cabernet Sauvignon, a wonderfully dry Cabernet Franc, and a crisp, refreshing, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc; this winery is definitely one to try if Napa or Bordeaux styles better suit your palette.

Folded Hills Ranch Winery of the Santa Ynez Valley. This winery may be found in the southern portion of the Santa Ynez Valley, nestled to the western-base of the Santa Ynez Mountain. The vines of this vineyard are south facing, in a slightly warmer maritime climate. The Grenache produced by Folded Hills is light-to-medium bodied with the perfect abundance of fruit and supple tannins.

Just west of Buellton, on the southern bank of the Santa Ynez River you will find Peake Ranch Winery. The vineyard is located in the Santa Rita Hills area. This cool-maritime microclimate is just warm enough to ripen Grenache, any further west and it would be too cold to ripen this varietal. The Grenache here is very smooth, medium in body with clear red fruit notes and a juicy character.

Understandably, not all of us would want to picture ourselves traveling to multiple wineries during these times. If this is the case then you might have better luck getting your hands on a bottle of Sanford Winery Pinot or Chardonnay. These wines also come from the viticultural area Santa Rita Hills, just west of the Peake Ranch Winery along the Santa Ynez River. If you prefer a bit more acidity in your wine however, I would suggest a bottle from Syrah from Zaca Mesa Winery instead. Located in north of the Los Olivos district along the foothills of the San Rafael Mountains. This moderate climate produces a Syrah that is full in flavor and body, presenting dark fruit and leather with subtle notes of cherry and lush tannins. Both Sanford and Zaca Mesa wines can be found in local stores, making it easier to enjoy what Santa Barbara County has to offer from the safety and comfort of your home.

About Alex

Alexander Pesenti is an aspiring sommelier and wine enthusiast. He has lived his whole life in Palos Verdes. While studying at Cal Poly Pomona for his degree in Agricultural Science, Alex discovered his love for wine. Having recently completed his level 1 sommelier certification, he is working towards furthering his certification. Along with his passion for wine comes the desire to spread awareness of the diversity that wine has to offer.

Here’s the link to Alex’s LinkedIn:(https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-pesenti-221216153/)

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