Dreaming of a wine tasting getaway to Los Olivos wineries? In this guide, Iâm sharing all the details you need to plan your wine-filled adventure in Californiaâs Central Coast.
Downtown Los Olivos is a wine loverâs paradise, with more than two dozen tasting rooms just steps from each other.
And outside town, youâll find many more wineries serving up delicious wines with drop-dead gorgeous vineyard views. Itâs no wonder Santa Barbara was named 2021 Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast!
But if youâre feeling overwhelmed with so many places to choose from, Iâm here to help.
As an American Wine Expert and WSET-certified wine blogger, Iâve done all the searching and sipping for you. And I put together my handpicked list of Los Olivos wineries you wonât want to miss. Plus, all the tips you need to help your trip go smoothly.
The Best Los Olivos Wineries Downtown
This small town is packed full of wine-tasting rooms. While there are many great options, these producers stand out for exceptional wines and hospitality.
1. Dragonette Cellars
This winery started as a home winemaking project, fermenting Syrah grapes in a garage. Brothers John and Steve Dragonette, and their close friend Brandon Sparks-Gillis, turned their passion into a profession in 2005 when they founded Dragonette Cellars.
They focus on low yields to make high quality, complex, and balanced wines. Youâll find Bordeaux, Burgundy, and RhĂ´ne varieties.
These come from sought-after vineyard sites in Sta. Rita Hills, Happy Canyon, and Santa Ynez Valley. The wines are fermented in small lots and aged in French oak.
Wines to Try
All the wines I tried were excellent. From the Grenache-based rosĂŠ to the Bordeaux-style Sauvignon Blanc to the smooth Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir.
Donât miss the Radian Pinot Noir. This steep, windy vineyard produces tiny clusters that make intensely flavored berries. The wine is deep and complex, with loads of black cherries, herbs, and earth.
And for a fun twist, try the Collaboration Pinot Noir thatâs made by the wineryâs staff. The blend you taste might just be the handiwork of your tasting room host.
Visiting
Reservations are recommended at the downtown Los Olivos tasting room, though walk-ins are welcome. Sample a preset flight of five wines. And if you take home three bottles, the tasting fee is comped.
You can also book a private winery tour and tasting at their Buellton winemaking facility to explore reserve-level and single-vineyard gems.
2. Stolpman Vineyards
If youâre a fan of RhĂ´ne-style wines, check out Stolpman Vineyards.
Marilyn and Tom Stolpmanâs dream of owning a vineyard was inspired by their honeymoon in Napa Valley. In 1990, it became a reality when they purchased a vineyard.
Itâs since been passed down to Pete and Jessica Stolpman, the next generation. And longtime vigneron Ruben Solorzano, dubbed the âGrape Whispererâ by Wine Enthusiast, manages the Ballard Canyon vineyards.
They use dry farming, encouraging vines to dig deep for water and producing more flavorful grapes. Plus, they allow native yeast to ferment their wines, adding character.
One of the cool things is that Stolpman gives back to their farmers, sharing a percentage of the profits.
Wines to Try
Stolpmanâs Viognier is delicious, with great acidity, luscious peach, and a lingering finish. For red wine lovers, try the Hilltops Syrah, a concentrated wine made from the oldest vines.
And donât miss the Sun and Earth, one of Rubenâs wines. A blend of Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Syrah, itâs got beautiful blackberry, raspberry, baking spices, and cedar.
Visiting
Reservations are required. And groups are capped at six in their Los Olivos tasting room. The outdoor patio is a peaceful spot to savor their wines.
You can also explore the next-door Fresh Garage, which serves up Stolpmanâs carbonic wines.
Pin for Later!
3. Brewer-Clifton
For exceptional Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and cool-climate Syrah, donât miss Brewer-Clifton.
Since its founding in 1996 by Greg Brewer and Steve Clifton, a few things have changed. Steve ventured out on a new path in 2015. And the winery was sold to Jackson Family Wines in 2017.
But Greg Brewer remains the winemaker. This deal allowed him to stop his consulting gigs and focus on making his outstanding wines. In fact, he was named Winemaker of the Year by Wine Enthusiast in 2020.
The vineyards are in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA, known for its cooler climate. Greg uses whole cluster fermentation for the reds and whole cluster press for the whites.
And neutral oak adds body and texture without overpowering the fruit flavors. These wines are meant to be ageable for 10 years or more.
Wines to Try
The Chardonnays are outstanding. They have almost a salty quality from the ocean influence. Plus, bright acidity, stone fruit, and citrus.
The Pinot Noirs are herbal, with black cherry, strawberry, and a dash of spice. And donât miss the Ex Post Facto Syrah made in a cool-climate style with soft blackberry, black cherry, and black pepper.
Visiting
Youâll want to make a reservation for their personalized tasting experience. Groups of six or more should contact them in advance. And if youâre a wine club member, consider a private appointment at the winery for a special experience.
4. Story of Soil
For those of you who like to geek out on soil, you should stop by Story of Soil.
Jessica Gasca is the mastermind behind this boutique winery. Her love affair with winemaking began during an internship in 2009. And she continued learning by apprenticing at Sanguis Wines. By 2012, she was making her first vintage.
Jessicaâs focus is on letting the soilâs story shine, believing itâs not the winemaker but the earth that speaks through the wine. The fruit is sourced from vineyards in Sta. Rita Hills, Los Olivos, Santa Maria Valley, and Ballard Canyon.
Single-varietal and single-vineyard wines are created in small lots with minimal intervention. These are wines with soul.
Wines to Try
I loved their rosĂŠ of Pinot Noir, a light pink, fresh wine from the Gold Coast Vineyard in Santa Maria Valley. The Pinot Noir from Ampelos Vineyard in Santa Rita Hills was a standout too.
But my favorite was the Syrah. Also from Ampelos Vineyard, itâs made in a cool-climate style with no heavy extraction. Just neutral oak, allowing the blueberry and black plum to shine, with a hint of black pepper.
Visiting
Story of Soil recommends reservations, but they welcome walk-ins when space allows. And if you buy three bottles, the tasting fee is waived. You can even rent the tasting room for larger groups. Just ask in advance.
5. Future Perfect Wine
Get ready for a dose of sunshine in a glass at Future Perfect.
Sunshine, aka Sunny Doench Stricker, is the heart and soul behind this winery. Originally from Ohio, Sunny spent most of her life in LA as an actor, but her passion for wine led her on a new journey.
In 2017, she moved to Los Olivos, bought a farm, and embraced winemaking. She learned from some of the best, including Jessica Gasca of Story of Soil. And Amy Christine and Peter Hunken of Holus Bolus.
Future Perfect sources local fruit thatâs organic, biodynamic, or sustainably farmed. The hand-harvested grapes are made into small-batch wines using neutral French oak.
Wines to Try
Their sparkling rosĂŠ bursts with lively bubbles and flavors of lemon, strawberry, and raspberry.
And the âBreakfast Wineâ Sauvignon Blanc, from Grassini Vineyard in Happy Canyon, is so delicious youâll skip the pancakes and go right to the wine.
And try the Pinot Noir from Our Lady of Guadalupe vineyards in Sta. Rita Hills. It balances earthy, meaty, and smoky notes with beautiful fruit.
Shop their rainbow-themed merch while you sip. And if you like the wines, be sure to get on the wine club waitlist while you can.
Visiting
Open daily, reservations are recommended but walk-ins are welcome. Large groups of nine or more, reach out in advance.
Or for an unforgettable experience, consider their semi-private tastings at Diamond Sky Ranch, offering stunning mountaintop views of Santa Barbara County.
6. Holus Bolus & The Joy Fantastic
Founded in 2005 by Amy Christine and Peter Hunken, Holus Bolus is a hidden gem for Burgundy and RhĂ´ne varietal lovers. Amy is a Master of Wine and WSET instructor, while Peter spent years working at Stolpman Vineyards.
The Holus Bolus label features an octopus, symbolizing the eight limbs of Amy and Peter. These single vineyard wines are made from fruit sourced throughout Santa Barbara County.
And in 2014, they planted their own 5-acre vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA. The fruit goes into wines playfully named âThe Joy Fantasticâ after a Prince album.
Wines to Try
Try the Amy & Peter Made This Pinot Noir. Sourced from a historic site in Sta. Rita Hills, it has a delightful balance of acidity, red cherry, and savory herbal notes.
And donât miss The Joy Fantastic Syrah, one of the coolest plantings of this grape in Santa Barbara County. With black pepper on the nose and beautiful black fruit, it earned an impressive 97 points from Wine Enthusiast.
Visiting
They have a cozy tasting room where you might even have the chance to meet Amy or Peter themselves. Reservations are a smart move, but they also welcome walk-ins.
7. Carhartt Family Wines
Mike and Brooke Carhartt purchased the familyâs Rancho Santa Ynez property in 1992. And by 1996, they had planted a vineyard, releasing Carhartt Family Winesâ first vintage two years later.
In 2005, they opened their Los Olivos tasting room. Known as the Carhartt Cabin, itâs earned three consecutive âBest Valley Tasting Roomâ awards from the Santa Barbara Independent.
Their son, Chase, joined as co-winemaker with Brooke in 2011. And Carhartt has expanded to three Santa Ynez Valley vineyards, farmed using organic and sustainable practices.
If youâre familiar with the Carhartt clothing brand, you might be wondering if thereâs a connection. Well, there is! Mike is the great-grandson of Hamilton, who founded the famous heavy-duty workwear company.
Wines to Try
My personal favorite was the Mourvèdre. Made in a lighter style, this red wine has soft tannins. And elegant notes of spice, red fruit, and dried herbs.
And if youâre a fan of cool-climate Cabernet Sauvignon, try Carharttâs. Itâs got great acidity, with violets, blackberry, blackcurrant, and spices.
Visiting
Pro tip: Carhartt stays open later than most tasting rooms in downtown Los Olivos. So, plan this as your last stop. Reservations are optional at their wine-barrel-furniture-adorned patio and tasting room.
Or you can book a private tasting and tour at the ranch. Plus, check out their vacation rental in the Sangiovese vineyard to sleep among the vines.
More Downtown Los Olivos Tasting Rooms
If youâre looking for more options, these are some other wine tasting rooms in downtown Los Olivos to check out.
Margerum Wine Company
I visited Margerumâs Santa Barbara tasting room in the Funk Zone. But they also have a location in downtown Los Olivos.
They focus on RhĂ´ne wines, and everything I tasted was fantastic. Plus, they offer food and wine pairing experiences (sparkling wine and oysters, yes please!). Just be sure to book in advance.
Epiphany Cellars & The Bubble Shack
If you canât make it to Fess Parker Winery, they also have two tasting rooms downtown. Epiphany features their RhĂ´ne-based varietal wines.
And at the Bubble Shack, you can tasteâŚyup, you guessed it, bubbly! These are under the Fesstivity Sparkling Wine label.
Reservations are recommended for both, but theyâll take walk-ins if space is available.
The Best Wineries in Los Olivos Beyond Downtown
While not an exhaustive list, these are some of the top Los Olivos wineries to visit beyond downtown. Just head north on Foxen Canyon Road and youâll find them along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail.
1. Demetria Estate
For incredible views paired with stunning wines, Demetria Estate is a must-visit. The dream began with John Zahoudanis, who grew up on a farm with a small vineyard in Greece.
His vision of owning a vineyard and winery came true when he and his wife, Sandra, discovered the stunning property in 2005. They named it after their daughter, Demetria, inspired by the Greek goddess of harvest, Demeter.
Today, their son, Alexis, continues the family legacy. And theyâve brought on Ryan Roark as vineyard manager and winemaker. This globetrotter has winemaking experience from France, New Zealand, and Napa Valley.
With 45 acres of biodynamically farmed estate vineyards, Demetria focuses on RhĂ´ne varietals. Plus, they source some fruit from other Central Coast vineyards for Burgundy-style wines. The wines are made as natural as possible, using native yeast for fermentation.
Wines to Try
The Pantheon Blanc, a Sancerre-style Sauvignon Blanc, is a standout. The lime, lemon, grapefruit, and floral notes are backed by zesty acidity.
Their Viognier is excellent too, with juicy peach, melon, honeysuckle, and a touch of texture. And for a special treat, try the sparkling rosĂŠ, with cherry, grapefruit, and lively bubbles.
Visiting
Reservations are required for visiting. Bring your own food to enjoy on the patio or lawn. Itâs the perfect place for a winery picnic. And kids are welcome too!
Just limit groups to eight. And keep in mind, thereâs no Wi-Fi or cell service. So, plug those directions in ahead of time.
For a deeper dive, book a tasting with the winemaker. And if you fall in love with the property (and your date), they even double as a wedding venue.
2. Zaca Mesa
If youâre a Syrah lover, then you canât miss Zaca Mesa.
Founded in 1973 by John Cushman and five friends, it was the third winery in Santa Barbara County. And the first to plant Syrah in 1978.
Now, they hold claim to the oldest Syrah block on the Central Coast, known as the Black Bear Block. Their wines were even served in the White House in 1996.
Stewart Cushman, Johnâs son, runs things today, keeping it a family-owned winery. And Kristen Bryden has been the head winemaker since 2016.
Zaca Mesa focuses on single-vineyard RhĂ´ne-style wines. But they also have a sister label, TREAD, producing Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from sourced fruit in Santa Barbara County.
Wines to Try
They make a nice Cabernet Sauvignon. But the real star is of course the Syrah.
The Clydesdale, named after Stewartâs middle name, has intense violet and berry aromas and loads of black fruit and cocoa. And donât miss the Syrah Estrella from the historic Black Bear Block. Itâs even more concentrated and has great aging potential.
Visiting
The Courtyard is open daily, with reservations recommended but not required. Or on weekends, book ahead to visit their Lounge & Terrace or the group-friendly Vineyard Oak Tree. And enjoy live music on Sundays.
Feel free to bring your own food, the family (kids are welcome!), and even your furry friends.
3. Fess Parker Winery
For a bit of Hollywood in wine country, check out Fess Parker Winery. You might remember Fess best from his iconic roles as Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone. But after venturing into real estate development, he bought a 700-acre ranch in 1988.
His dream was a family business that included a vineyard and winery. By 1995, his son Eli took the reins as head winemaker. And in 2001, their wines graced the tables of the White House.
Though Fess passed away in 2010, the family continued the business. Today, Eli and Ashley Parker co-own the winery, focusing on RhĂ´ne and Burgundy varietals.
Wines to Try
They make a delicious Riesling, a medley of lemon, lime, green apple, and a zing of acidity. And if youâre a bubbly lover, donât miss their small-lot traditional method sparkling wines.
Visiting
The newly renovated property is stunning. Make a reservation to enjoy a flight on the gorgeous patio, complete with an outdoor fireplace. Or snag a plush leather seat in the spacious tasting room and ogle over the wine-bottle-lined library room.
Itâs a 21+ experience. But you can bring your own food for a picnic on the lawn.
If youâre in downtown Los Olivos, check out their Epiphany and Bubble Shack tasting rooms. In Santa Barbara, you can catch them in the Funk Zone too. And for the ultimate luxury experience, stay at the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn.
Los Olivos District AVA
History of Los Olivos Wineries
Los Olivos is one of the oldest winegrowing areas in Santa Barbara wine country, with some of the earliest vineyards being planted here. Back in 1804, Spanish Franciscans tended grapevines and made small amounts of wine at Mission Santa Ines.
Credit for the Los Olivos name goes to Alden March Boyd, one of the areaâs first settlers. In 1885, he bought a chunk of land, 157 acres to be exact, and named it Rancho de Los Olivos.
Fred Brander was a pioneer in this wine region. After studying at UC Davis, he interned at Dry Creek Vineyard in Sonoma. And in 1975, he ventured out on his own to plant a 40-acre vineyard in Los Olivos.
Fred discovered the area was perfect for Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon. And Brander Vineyard was born.
Convinced Los Olivos had a unique microclimate, he led the charge to establish the Los Olivos District AVA. And in 2016, was successful in getting it recognized.
Today, there are more than a thousand acres of vineyards in the district. And there are dozens of wineries and wine tasting rooms throughout the AVA (American Viticultural Area).
Climate and Terroir
Located in Santa Barbara Countyâs Central Coast, the Los Olivos District AVA is 30 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean.
What sets it apart? Well, unlike the rest of California where mountains are parallel to the coast, this regionâs transverse ranges run east to west. This funnels the cold ocean breezes down the valley. And makes it surprisingly one of Californiaâs coolest wine regions.
Los Olivos is a nested AVA of the Santa Ynez Valley AVA. Bordered by Happy Canyon AVA and Ballard Canyon AVA, it includes small towns like Los Olivos, Solvang, Ballard, and Santa Ynez.
The landscape and soil here are very uniform compared to the rest of the Santa Ynez Valley. And thatâs a big part of why it was recognized as its own AVA.
This area is an alluvial terrace, with gravelly soils like the Bordeauxâs left bank. Itâs got good drainage going on, which keeps the vines healthy. But also retains enough water to keep them from getting too thirsty.
Being further inland, the climate is moderate, with warm, sunny days. Less fog than areas to the west means warmer days and chillier nights. Just right for ripening those grapes without losing their zing.
The lack of rainfall makes organic farming easier, reducing the need for fungal disease treatments. Plus, the root-louse phylloxera is less of a concern, allowing some vines to survive without grafting onto American rootstock.
What Wine Is Los Olivos Known For?
Los Olivos is known for Bordeaux and RhĂ´ne varieties. If youâre not familiar with these regions, think Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc for Bordeaux. And Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Viognier for RhĂ´ne.
In Los Olivos, youâll find a fresher style of Sauvignon Blanc. Usually unoaked and zesty, it packs more acidity than white wines from the warmer Happy Canyon AVA.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are made in a lighter style than other Californian big-hitters. And some fantastic Syrahs and Viogniers are coming out of this region. Youâll even find Spanish and Italian varietals like Tempranillo and Sangiovese.
In the downtown Los Olivos tasting rooms, you can sample wines from other Santa Barbara County AVAs. So, youâll often see Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Sta. Rita Hills, for example.
VIP Wine Tastings
As a member of The California Wine Club, one of the perks I receive is VIP winery tours and tastings in California. They work with small producers who love to host wine club members when visiting the area.
All I had to do was reach out when I was planning my trip. They not only set up some complimentary tastings but also offered insights into other wineries and local dining spots worth exploring. Visiting those wineries felt special, an experience that went beyond the usual.
đ Visit the website to learn more about this benefit and the access you get to small-batch wines you often wonât find outside of the winery.
Recommendations may be affiliate links on which I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps me share new wine destinations with you and I only recommend products and services that I love and think youâll love too!
Los Olivos Wine Tour
If youâre sticking to downtown Los Olivos wineries, thereâs no need to book a tour. The townâs more than 25 tasting rooms are all within steps of each other.
But if you want to visit wineries outside of town, a wine tour definitely has its advantages. You wonât have to worry about driving. Or organizing all the bookings. And some tour companies can get you into wineries that arenât normally open to the public.
This is a great small group tour that includes hotel pick-up, all your tastings, lunch, and snacks. Or if you prefer more one-on-one attention, try this private wine tasting tour. Both options pick up throughout Santa Ynez Valley or even from the city of Santa Barbara.
đ Book the Small Group Tour or the Private Wine Tasting Tour
Where to Stay for Visiting Los Olivos Wineries
There arenât many hotel options in downtown Los Olivos. So, I recommend staying in the nearby town of Solvang. This historic village is famous for its Danish architecture and delicious bakeries. Plus, youâll find even more wineries in Solvang and fantastic restaurants.
For a great value, I recommend the Vinland Hotel & Lounge. This pet-friendly hotel was recently renovated. And it has a pool and an excellent hotel bar. Plus, itâs convenient walking distance to all the sights.
If youâre looking for a little more luxury, go for the Corque Hotel. Itâs perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway. And it even has its own on-site restaurant.
đ¨ Book the Vinland Hotel & Lounge or Corque Hotel
FAQs About Los Olivos Wine Tasting
When Is the Best Time to Visit Los Olivos Wineries?
Being in Central California, Los Olivos is beautiful year-round. Not too hot in the summer. And temps are still in the 60s in the winter.
Summer is peak season, so avoid it if crowds are not your thing. And during the busy fall harvest, youâre less likely to see winemakers in the tasting room. Iâd recommend trying winter or spring if youâre looking for a more intimate tasting experience.
If youâre visiting in October, donât miss the Santa Barbara Vintners Festival. Taste wines from more than 50 local wineries. And enjoy regional food pairings. Plus, you may even get to meet the winemakers and winery owners.
Whatâs the Best Way to Get to Los Olivos?
Los Olivos is about a 45-minute drive from the city of Santa Barbara. If youâre flying in, there is an airport in Santa Barbara. Or you can fly into Los Angeles and itâs a 3-hour drive north from there.
How Many Wineries Are There Near Los Olivos?
Within the Los Olivos District AVA, there are 12 bonded wineries. But in downtown Los Olivos, there are more than 25 tasting rooms. Wines in these tasting rooms come from throughout Santa Barbara County.
Are Los Olivos Wineries Open Year-Round?
Most of the wineries in Los Olivos are open year-round. Just be sure to check their website before stopping by in the off-season.
Do You Need Reservations for Los Olivos Wineries?
Reservations are recommended at many Los Olivos wineries. And some even require them, especially if youâre going to the winery property.
If youâre visiting in the off-season or on a weekday, you shouldnât have an issue walking into most tasting rooms downtown. But for weekends and in the summer, Iâd recommend booking in advance.
How Much Does Los Olivos Wine Tasting Cost?
Most tastings will run you around $20 to $25. But can be $35 to $45 for premium or library wines. And some wineries will waive the fee if you purchase a few bottles or join the wine club.
Check out my guide if youâre wondering how much wine tastings are in other regions.
Can I bring my kids and pets to the wineries?
Some wineries in Los Olivos are kid-friendly. But itâs best to check the website in advance to make sure itâs not 21+.
Many wineries welcome dogs in the outdoor spaces. And some even allow them inside the tasting room. Again, double-check their policy before showing up with your pup.
Learn more about what to consider when planning your winery visits in my guide to wine tasting etiquette.
Do Los Olivos wineries have food?
There arenât many Los Olivos tasting rooms and wineries that have food for purchase. Some do allow you to bring your own though.
In downtown Los Olivos, I recommend Panino for delicious sandwiches (located next to the adorable Los Olivos General Store). If youâre heading up Foxen Canyon, you can pick them up on your way and enjoy a picnic.
For table service, donât miss the Los Olivos Wine Merchant & CafĂŠ. Not only is it one of the best restaurants in the area, but itâs also where the famous double date scene occurred in the movie Sideways.
Los Olivos District AVA
History of Los Olivos Wineries
Los Olivos is one of the oldest winegrowing areas in Santa Barbara wine country, with some of the earliest vineyards being planted here. Back in 1804, Spanish Franciscans tended grapevines and made small amounts of wine at Mission Santa Ines.
Credit for the Los Olivos name goes to Alden March Boyd, one of the areaâs first settlers. In 1885, he bought a chunk of land, 157 acres to be exact, and named it Rancho de Los Olivos.
Fred Brander was a pioneer in this wine region. After studying at UC Davis, he interned at Dry Creek Vineyard in Sonoma. And in 1975, he ventured out on his own to plant a 40-acre vineyard in Los Olivos.
Fred discovered the area was perfect for Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon. And Brander Vineyard was born.
Convinced Los Olivos had a unique microclimate, he led the charge to establish the Los Olivos District AVA. And in 2016, was successful in getting it recognized.
Today, there are more than a thousand acres of vineyards in the district. And there are dozens of wineries and wine tasting rooms throughout the AVA (American Viticultural Area).
Climate and Terroir
Located in Santa Barbara Countyâs Central Coast, the Los Olivos District AVA is 30 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean.
What sets it apart? Well, unlike the rest of California where mountains are parallel to the coast, this regionâs transverse ranges run east to west. This funnels the cold ocean breezes down the valley. And makes it surprisingly one of Californiaâs coolest wine regions.
Los Olivos is a nested AVA of the Santa Ynez Valley AVA. Bordered by Happy Canyon AVA and Ballard Canyon AVA, it includes small towns like Los Olivos, Solvang, Ballard, and Santa Ynez.
The landscape and soil here are very uniform compared to the rest of the Santa Ynez Valley. And thatâs a big part of why it was recognized as its own AVA.
This area is an alluvial terrace, with gravelly soils like the Bordeauxâs left bank. Itâs got good drainage going on, which keeps the vines healthy. But also retains enough water to keep them from getting too thirsty.
Being further inland, the climate is moderate, with warm, sunny days. Less fog than areas to the west means warmer days and chillier nights. Just right for ripening those grapes without losing their zing.
The lack of rainfall makes organic farming easier, reducing the need for fungal disease treatments. Plus, the root-louse phylloxera is less of a concern, allowing some vines to survive without grafting onto American rootstock.
Los Olivos Wines
Los Olivos is known for Bordeaux and RhĂ´ne varieties. If youâre not familiar with these regions, think Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc for Bordeaux. And Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Viognier for RhĂ´ne.
In Los Olivos, youâll find a fresher style of Sauvignon Blanc. Usually unoaked and zesty, it packs more acidity than white wines from the warmer Happy Canyon AVA.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are made in a lighter style than other Californian big-hitters. And some fantastic Syrahs and Viogniers are coming out of this region. Youâll even find Spanish and Italian varietals like Tempranillo and Sangiovese.
In the downtown Los Olivos tasting rooms, you can sample wines from other Santa Barbara County AVAs. So, youâll often see Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Sta. Rita Hills, for example.
Check out More U.S. Wine Destinations
Discover Santa Barbara Wine Country: Essential Guide
10 Best Los Olivos Wineries & Wine Tasting Rooms
10 Best Solvang Wineries & Wine Tasting Rooms
The Best Wineries in Dry Creek Valley (Wine Tasting Itinerary)
Have you visited any of these Los Olivos wineries? What are your favorite wines from this region?
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