An astounding 200-plus wineries populate the mere 3,789 square miles of Santa Barbara County. What makes this area so suitable for viticulture? The West Coast’s only mountain range that runs east to west has created a natural wonder: six distinct American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) right in Santa Barbara County. In fact, there are so many wonderful reds, whites, and bubblies that mapping your wine tour can feel a bit daunting. Thankfully, there are numerous exceptional tasting rooms right in Santa Barbara proper. Leave the car at home and try these unique urban vino experiences without leaving the city.
A great introduction to the area’s wine, this popular room offers guests an educational tour of the region’s six AVAs with a whimsical schoolhouse vibe. See soil samples from each appellation while admiring the beautifully informative chalkboard mural.
You don’t need security clearance to visit this Cold War–style spot. Crack open the “top secret file” to find a list of the winery’s tasty blends that feature on-brand names like Collusion, Close Encounter, and Conspiracy Red.
Sparkle-lovers, this one’s for you. Riverbench’s estate, located in nearby Santa Maria, is one of the only wineries in the area that specializes in bubblies. The chic Funk Zone tasting room also sells bottles covered in glitter for you to take home.
Long before Santa Barbara’s downtown tasting rooms became trendy, Au Bon Climat was pouring its Old World–style Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. Located near the Presidio in the historic El Paseo section, locals love ABC for its cozy-yet-upscale feel and frequent deliveries of complimentary cheese plates.
Serving luscious Pinot Noirs and offering up some serious Jacques Cousteau vibes, Deep Sea is as close to an offshore tasting as you can get on dry land. This Stearns Wharf spot offers sweeping views of the Pacific from its giant glass windows and breezy outdoor deck.
This lively spot in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone is known for its bright-tasting vinos and clever decor. Enjoy flights from its original label in a creative spot featuring a cheeky filing cabinet wall, a chandelier made of bottles, and even a wine fountain. Refills, anyone?
Get the VIP treatment at this appointment-only spot. Sanguis provides an intimate experience paired with exceptional wines. Owner Matthias Pippig, who hails from L.A.’s popular La Brea Bakery, crafts everything himself, from the labels’ artwork to the balanced Syrahs.
