Santa Barbara's east-west valleys funnel marine fog and air inland. Large day-night temperature swings let fruit ripen while retaining acidity. The cooler west grows Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with bright acidity and mineral character; farther east, bolder Rhône and Bordeaux varieties grow alongside aromatic Sauvignon Blanc and spicy Syrah. Its listed appellations include Santa Ynez Valley, Sta. Rita Hills, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara, Los Olivos District, Ballard Canyon and Alisos Canyon. Santa Maria Valley's cool, windy conditions favor intensely flavored Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that retain acidity. Modern winegrowing accelerated after 1965 soil and climate studies identified Santa Ynez and Santa Maria as suitable for premium grapes. The 2004 film Sideways later brought wider public attention to Santa Barbara Pinot Noir.
Elsewhere in California · Central Coast
Continue through the region
- Monterey & San Benito2 producersMonterey & San Benito includes Gabilan Mountains, Santa Lucia Highlands, Arroyo Seco and Carmel Valley among its appellations. Wines from the Gabilan Mountains are described as complex, fruity and mineral-driven.
- San Luis Obispo7 producersOften called SLO, San Luis Obispo is associated with Rhône blends, heritage Zinfandel, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Its listed appellations include Paso Robles and Arroyo Grande Valley.
- Santa Cruz & Bay12 producersSanta Cruz & Bay includes the Santa Cruz Mountains and San Francisco Bay appellations. Mountain vineyards often sit above the fog line. The Santa Cruz Mountains produce ageworthy Pinot Noir and crisp, mineral-flavored Chardonnay.
Producer profiles
Producers in Santa Barbara
- Foley EstateOregon brand Acrobat sources Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir from partner vineyards across three AVAs.