Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara County is a coastal AVA in Southern California distinguished by its east–west–oriented valleys, which funnel cool Pacific breezes and morning fog deep into the region. This unique geography creates a long, mild growing season ideal for delicate varieties, especially Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Sta. Rita Hills and Santa Maria Valley sub-AVAs are particularly celebrated for producing bright, mineral-driven wines with vivid red fruit and crisp acidity. Beyond Burgundian grapes, Rhône varieties like Syrah and Grenache have found great success on the warmer, rolling hills inland. Volcanic and marine sedimentary soils lend complexity and terroir expression, from silky tannins in reds to layered citrus and stone fruit in whites. Pioneering producers such as Au Bon Climat, Sanford & Benedict, and Foxen have helped cement Santa Barbara’s reputation as one of California’s most innovative and cool-climate wine regions.