4 Best Tasting Rooms in Santa Barbara, California

ByLaura Wine Destinations

Heading to California’s Central Coast and looking to explore the best tasting rooms in Santa Barbara? 

This beachside city is home to 25+ tasting rooms where you can sample wines from throughout Santa Barbara wine country. From the trendy Funk Zone to the historic Presidio neighborhood, there’s no shortage of areas to explore on this urban wine trail.

If you’re trying to narrow down the many options, I’m here to help! As an advanced WSET wine expert, I recently spent a week exploring and wine tasting in this region. 

And I put together this short list of my top picks for downtown Santa Barbara tasting rooms. Get all the details you need to plan your wine tasting trip.

The Best Tasting Rooms in Santa Barbara

1. Margerum

The entrance to the Margerum Wine Company features a striking arched window design, with a sidewalk seating area adorned with red and white bistro chairs and a branded wooden podium.

In the heart of the Funk Zone, Margerum is a must-visit for fantastic Rhône and Burgundian-style wines. 

In 2001, Doug Margerum founded the winery with the vision of returning to winemaking’s roots. What started as a tiny room behind Brander Vineyards now includes an 18-acre estate and handcrafted wines.

You’ll only find Rhône varieties like Grenache, Syrah, and Viognier planted at Margerum’s Los Olivos vineyards. These are used to make exceptional single-varietal and blended wines.

Or if you’re more of a Burgundy fan, check out the BARDEN line. Grapes are sourced from top vineyards in the Sta. Rita Hills to make cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

A cozy lounge area inside the Margerum Wine Company tasting room, with plush navy blue sofas and colorful ottomans, accentuated by wine-themed decor and large windows inviting natural light.
A delicate glass of Margerum rosé wine with the winery's name etched on it, filled with pale pink wine, set on a white marble bar with a blurred background.
Rows of Margerum Riviera Rosé wine bottles lined up on a white shelf, their salmon pink hues vivid against the bright backdrop, with the winery's label clearly visible.
  • What I Like: Outstanding wines, engaging tasting experience, knowledgeable staff, exceptional hospitality, delicious food options, beautiful tasting room and patio, fun vibe
  • Wines to Try: The Viognier was delicious, with juicy peach and nice acidity. For reds, the earthy M5 Reserve GSM blend was a standout. And I loved the blackberry and white pepper notes of the Syrah.
  • Tasting Options: Sample a flight of 5 wines or book a VIP tasting that includes cheese and charcuterie. You can also stop by Margerum’s Los Olivos tasting room.
  • Food: Cheese and charcuterie boards, small bites, sandwiches, pizzas, and salads
  • Visiting Tips: Reservations optional for groups up to 8. Check the events page for special tastings and experiences.

Margerum Wine Company, 19 E Mason St, Santa Barbara, CA

2. Au Bon Climat

The vine-covered entrance of Au Bon Climat winery with a hanging sign for the wine tasting room and the Jim Clendenen wine library, inviting visitors into the arched doorway.

Heading over to the Presidio neighborhood, this award-winning producer has earned multiple “Winery of the Year” titles.

After working harvests throughout the world, Jim Clendenen was inspired by a trip to Burgundy. He founded Au Bon Climat in 1982 to create similar-style wines on California’s Central Coast. 

Au Bon Climat’s estate vineyards are in the Santa Maria Valley, one of the region’s coolest spots due to Pacific Ocean breezes. And they also source fruit from top sites throughout Santa Barbara County.

Hand harvesting and Old World winemaking techniques make their Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays truly special.

Interior of Au Bon Climat tasting room with a sleek leather couch, modern coffee table, and leather armchairs, against a backdrop of an extensive wine bottle display shelving.
An elegant glass of red wine with a focused view on 'Au Bon Climat' etched onto the glass, showcasing the rich color of the wine, set on a wooden table with blurred patio background.
A spacious tasting room at Au Bon Climat featuring a large wooden table with blue leather chairs, surrounded by shelves of wine bottles and a wall collage of vineyard images.
  • What I Like: Outstanding wines, personalized tasting experience, knowledgeable staff, great hospitality, cozy tasting room and patio
  • Wines to Try: If you’re a Pinot lover, try the Sanford and Benedict for beautiful fruit and cedar spice notes. And the Isabelle for a bolder and more savory style. The Nuits-Blanches Au Bouge Chardonnay was also excellent.
  • Tasting Options: Sample a flight of 5 classic or reserve wines from Au Bon Climat, Clendenen Family Vineyards, and Jim’s other wine projects. Or book in advance for a private tasting served with a local cheese plate.
  • Visiting Tips: Reservations available but they take walk-ins. Contact directly for groups of 6 or more. Check out the calendar for special tastings and events.

Au Bon Climat, 813 Anacapa Street, Ste 5b, Santa Barbara, CA

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3. Riverbench Vineyard and Winery

A promotional sign for Riverbench Winery prominently displayed on the patio, advertising local Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Sparkling Wines with a backdrop of guests enjoying the setting.

Just around the corner from Margerum, Riverbench is another Funk Zone tasting room not to be missed. 

Here, you’ll find cool-climate wines. These are made from fruit grown in their sustainably farmed vineyard in the Santa Maria Valley AVA. 

Starting as a grape grower in the early ‘70s, Riverbench expanded into making small quantities of their own Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in 2006. And in 2008, they added traditional method sparkling wines.

You’ll even find a single varietal sparkling Pinot Meunier, the first of its kind in Santa Barbara.

The ivy-covered entrance to Riverbench Winery's tasting room, marked by an elegant sign and outdoor seating, evoking a welcoming ambiance for visitors.
A glass of Riverbench Winery's Chardonnay presented on a rustic wooden table inside the winery's cozy tasting room with plush seating.
Patrons enjoying wine under the shade of beige umbrellas on a sunlit patio with wooden tables at Riverbench Winery, creating a relaxed outdoor tasting experience.
  • What I Like: Excellent wines, flexible tasting options, knowledgeable staff, great hospitality, relaxing atmosphere, rustic shaded patio, sustainable practices
  • Wines to Try: The sparkling wines are a must here. I loved the toast and brioche notes of the Blanc de Blanc. Also, try a fun comparison tasting with their line-up of unoaked and oaked Chardonnays. And the Carbonic Pinot Meunier is an awesome summer BBQ red.
  • Tasting Options: Get a taste of Riverbench with one of their daily flights. Or choose from a variety of other tasting options and wine and food pairing experiences.
  • Visiting Tips: Reservations recommended. Groups up to 8. Check the events page for special holiday tastings and workshops.

Riverbench Vineyard and Winery, 137 Anacapa St. Suite C, Santa Barbara, CA

4. Fess Parker Funk Zone

Modern wine tasting room with floor-to-ceiling wine racks filled with bottles, featuring a large wooden table with green and brown chairs on a vibrant red and grey patterned rug.

If the name Fess Parker rings a bell, you may remember this Hollywood actor for his roles as Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone.

But after stepping away from the limelight, Fess got into the winemaking biz when he purchased a 700-acre ranch in 1988. 

His descendants oversee the winery today, focusing on Rhône and Burgundy varietals. And they’ve even branched into a line of sparkling wines with the Fesstivity label.

If you’re not planning to visit the stunning estate on the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, their Funk Zone tasting room is a great spot to sample Fess Parker’s range of wines. 

  • What I Like: Diverse wine selection, flexible tasting options, friendly hospitality, beautiful tasting room and patio
  • Wines to Try: You won’t find much Riesling in this wine region, but Fess Parker makes a nice one with lime, green apple, and zingy acidity. And if you’re a bubbly lover, don’t miss their small-lot traditional method sparkling wines.
  • Tasting Options: Choose from a wide range of flights with options for red wine lovers or rosé and bubbles. Or grab a glass of wine to enjoy.
  • Visiting Tips: No reservations needed for small groups. Larger groups of up to 18 can book online. If you’re visiting Los Olivos wineries, check out the Epiphany and Bubble Shack tasting rooms too.

Fess Parker Funk Zone, 116 E. Yanonali Street, Suite A, Santa Barbara, CA

More Downtown Santa Barbara Tasting Rooms

If you plan to do more than a day of wine tasting, here are some of the other best wineries and wine bars to visit in Santa Barbara.

Funk Zone

  • Melville Winery – Taste cool-climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah grown on their estate vineyards in the Sta. Rita Hills.
  • The Valley Project – Take a tour through Santa Barbara County by tasting small-batch wines made from vineyards throughout the region.
  • Santa Barbara Wine Collective – Sample wines from top producers in the region, including some of my favorite Los Olivos wineries like Dragonette and Stolpman.
  • Pali Wine Co. – This modern-style spot specializes in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Or try the Tower 15 line for Rhône and Bordeaux varieties.

Presidio Neighborhood

  • Frequency Wine Company – This family-owned winery specializes in Rhône and Burgundian wines made from single vineyard sites.
  • Grassini Family Vineyards – Sample your way through Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc made from 100% estate-grown fruit in the Happy Canyon AVA.
  • Jamie Slone Wines – Taste a variety of wines made from organically farmed vineyards throughout Santa Barbara County.
  • Kunin Wines – Try small-lot Rhône and Loire Valley varietals and blends at this boutique wine tasting room.

The Best Santa Barbara Wine Tour

Santa Barbara’s downtown tasting rooms are easy to do on your own. But if you’re looking to take a day trip to winery estates in the Santa Ynez Valley, a tour is the way to go.

This is a great small group tour that includes hotel pick-up, all your tastings at top wineries, lunch, and snacks. Or if you prefer more one-on-one attention, try this private wine tasting tour. Both tours will pick you up and drop you off in the city of Santa Barbara.

🚌 Book the Small Group Tour or the Private Wine Tasting Tour

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Where to Stay for Visiting Santa Barbara Wineries

The Harbor House Inn is the perfect home base for your wine tasting trip. This boutique hotel is made up of studios that each have their own kitchenette.

It’s within walking distance of the Funk Zone. And you can hop on one of their complimentary bicycles to ride over to the Presidio and Midtown neighborhoods. Plus, you’re just steps from the beach, with chairs, towels, and umbrellas included in your stay.

🏨 Book The Harbor House Inn

FAQs About Santa Barbara Wine Tasting

How Many Wineries Are in Santa Barbara?

The downtown area is home to more than 25 wine tasting rooms. You’ll find these grouped in 3 main areas:

  • Funk Zone: 10 blocks of converted warehouses with wineries, breweries, shops, and restaurants.
  • Presidio: Historical site of the Spanish fortresses, home to some top wine producers and high-end dining.
  • Midtown: Industrial area with a mix of urban tasting rooms and breweries.

Plus, there are more than 250 wineries in Santa Barbara County. While you’re here, I recommend taking a day trip to explore Los Olivos wineries and Solvang tasting rooms.

When is the Best Time to Visit Santa Barbara for wine tasting?

Spring or fall are the best times to visit Santa Barbara tasting rooms. You’ll avoid the summer crowds and save on accommodations. Winter is a great option too for those looking for more intimate tasting experiences.

What Kind of Wine Is Santa Barbara Known For? 

Santa Barbara tasting rooms represent wineries from throughout Santa Barbara wine country. 

The region is made up of seven American Viticultural Areas that produce a wide variety of wines. The western end of the valley is famous for cool-climate Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and sparkling wine. (If you’re a Pinot Noir lover, you should also check out Ribbon Ridge wineries in Oregon.)

As you move inland, temperatures heat up. So, you’ll find Rhône varieties like Syrah, Grenache, and Viognier. Plus, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and even Italian and Spanish varieties.

What’s the Best Way to Get to Santa Barbara?

If you’re traveling by air, you can fly into Santa Barbara Airport directly. From Los Angeles, it’s about a 2-hour drive north. Or 6 hours south of San Francisco.

Are Santa Barbara Tasting Rooms Open Year-Round? 

Most tasting rooms in Santa Barbara stay open throughout the year. But I always recommend checking their website or calling before you stop by.

Do You Need Reservations at Downtown Santa Barbara Tasting Rooms?

Many of the tasting rooms in Santa Barbara welcome walk-ins. But some require booking in advance, especially for special tastings and experiences. 

Check out my guide for more winery etiquette tips.

How Much Does Santa Barbara Wine Tasting Cost?

Most wine tastings cost around $20 to $25. But you’ll pay a bit more for premium or reserve flights. Some spots will waive the tasting fee if you purchase bottles or join their wine club. 

Find out more ways to save on wine tasting with travel rewards.

Check out More United States Wine Destinations

Posted In: Wine Destinations

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I'm your go-to gal for all things wine and wanderlust. With a WSET Level 3 certification in wine and passport stamps from 30 countries and counting, I’m here to help you explore the world, one glass at a time.

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