SANTA BARBARA WINE COUNTRY: HISTORY, AVAs, TERROIR, KEY GRAPE VARIETIES
Santa Barbara Wine Country and its relatively diverse sub-AVAs keep demonstrating that Santa Barbara is a world-class cool climate growing region and one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Learn more about our unique winemaking region!
HISTORY OF SANTA BARBARA WINE COUNTRY
From early days to modern times
The rich history of Santa Barbara wine country dates back to the late 1700’s. Explore the path Santa Barbara viticulture took from mission wine to award winners.
AVAS OF SANTA BARBARA WINE COUNTRY
A wine region like no other
Santa Barbara County is home to 283 wineries and 7 officially recognized American Viticultural Areas or AVAs: They are Santa Maria Valley AVA, Santa Ynez Valley AVA, Sta. Rita Hills AVA, Ballard Canyon AVA, Los Olivos District AVA, Happy Canyon AVA, and Alisos Canyon AVA (pending).
TERROIR OF SANTA BARBARA WINE COUNTRY
"Great place to be a grape"
Benefiting from a very special topography, with the influence of ancient marine soils and cool climate, the terroir of Santa Barbara Wine Country is truly unique and allows local winemakers to create exceptional wines.
KEY GRAPE VARIETIES OF SANTA BARBARA WINE COUNTRY
Ideal farming conditions
From Chardonnay to Pinot Noir, Syrah to Grenache, Santa Barbara and its relatively diverse sub-AVAs are demonstrating that Santa Barbara Wine Country is a world-class cool climate growing region, allowing many varietals to reach their full potential.
