Best Vineyards in Santa Ynez Valley to Visit This Year
If you’re planning a trip to wine country, this guide to the best vineyards Santa Ynez has to offer is your go to resource . We’ve organized the valley by its most iconic wine regions, spotlighted standout tasting rooms, and included local food and lodging suggestions—so you can sip, stay, and explore like a pro.
Sta. Rita Hills: Cool Climate Wines & Ocean Breezes
Sta. Rita Hills is famed for producing refined Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with coastal character.
Melville Winery
Nestled in the heart of Sta. Rita Hills with indoor outdoor tasting and sweeping ocean cooled vineyards, Melville offers seated flights, vineyard walks, and a “Beyond the Barrel Tour” for a deep dine into their winemaking philosophy.
Sanford Winery
As one of the AVA’s pioneers (first plantings in 1971), Sanford sits among historic vineyards. The tasting room is a rustic luxury escape with exposed beams and hearths, offering estate tastings and ATV vineyard tours.
The Hilt Estate
Sleek and modern, Hilt presents expressive Chardonnay and Syrah in a minimalist, architect designed setting that honors both aesthetics and terrior.
Babcock Winery
A stylish, retro infused tasting room with vintage mid century decor. Known for approachable Pinots and Chardonnays in a fun atmosphere akin to a “groovy lounge.”
Pence Vineyards
A biodynamically farmed estate offering artisanal blends in an elegant rural tasting room overlooking native oak and rolling hills.
Where to Eat and Stay in Sta. Rita Hills
Eat: Capulin Eats & Provisions – Located in nearby Lompoc, this charming spot blends local, seasonal ingredients with Latin inspired flavors. Whether you’re grabbing a hearty breakfast burrito or a fresh, vibrant lunch plate, Capulin delivers delicious, thoughtfully crafted meals with a community driven vibe.
Stay: Sideways Inn – Nestled in Buellton, this eclectic, retro chic inn offers a unique blend of comfort and nostalgia. Made famous by the film Sideways, it’s a perfect base for exploring Sta. Rita Hills, with cozy rooms, a stylish lounge, and easy access to local wineries and tasting rooms.
Ballard Canyon: Bold Rhône Reds
Ballard Canyon’s limestone and clay soils produce concentrated Syrah, Grenache, and Rhône blends.
Stolpman Vineyards
Family owned and farming sustainability, Stolpman is known for its expensive Syrahs, sought after Viognier, and fun “Field Blend” series—all poured in their cozy tasting barn.
Beckman Vineyards
A biodynamic pioneer in the canyon with a scenic pondside tasting patio; their Syrah and Cabernet stand out for structure and flavor.
Where to Eat and Stay in Ballard Canyon
Eat: The Gathering Table (Solvang) – Revived by Chef Budi Kazali in the former Succulent Café space, this restaurant offers a shareable, seasonal menu blending French Asian influences. With locally sourced produce, seafood, and meats, it delivers an elevated yet warm dining experience—perfect for a refined evening close to Ballard Canyon.
Stay: The Ballard Inn – A charming and elegant inn in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, The Ballard Inn blends historic character with modern comforts. With luxurious rooms and an onsite restaurant, it’s a serene retreat just minutes from top wineries in Ballard Canyon.
Santa Ynez & Buellton: Home of Brick Barn
This easygoing sub region offers accessible tastings and scenic estates like Brick Barn.
Brick Barn Wine Estate
An estate winery set on a historic 35-acre ranch. Tasting flights feature estate Albariño, Rosé, and Syrah, poured under shaded patios overlooking mature vines.
Folded Hills
A sustainably farmed estate with panoramic hillside views and a friendly tasting room. Their organically grown Rhône style wines pair exceptionally well with the serene hilltop setting.
Buscador Winery
Located in the emerging “vineyard row” of Industrial Way, Buscador offers bold Bordeaux and Rhône style varietals served in a lively, barrel lined industrial warehouse. Winemaker Matt Kowalczyk personally pours in a casual, art filled space that energizes locals and visitors alike.
Tierra y Vino
Founded by Andres Ibarra, this boutique estate produces Grenache Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, Tempranillo, and more. The intimate tasting room downtown is known for generous hospitality and small production gems.
Ken Brown Wines
Led by veteran winemaker Ken Brown, this tasting room showcases handcrafted Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc in a cozy space on Buellton’s foodie friendly strip.
Where to Eat & Stay in Buellton
Eat: Vega Vineyard & Farm– A relaxed farm to table experience offering wine, craft beer, and fresh seasonal fare in a scenic countryside setting. With a spacious outdoor patio, farm animals, and live music on weekends, it’s a family friendly stop that captures the spirit of Santa Ynez wine country.
Stay: Flying Flags RV Resort– More than just an RV park, Flying Flags offers a unique range of accommodations from vintage trailers to luxury cabins and safari tents. With pools, fire pits, a general store, and communal spaces, it’s a lively, comfortable hub for travelers exploring the surrounding wine regions.
Los Olivos: Walkable Tasting Village
Los Olivos is a compact tasting destination perfect for an afternoon stroll.
Saarloos & Sons
Witty blends poured in a charming cottage, known for its big reds, personality, and cupcakes.
Carhartt Family Wines
A welcoming garden tasting room with approachable blends and friendly hosts.
Story of Soil
Jessica Gasca’s boutique operation focuses on Grenache and Syrah from single vineyard blocks, served in an intimate setting.
Evan’s Ranch by Gainey
A chic, new tasting room in town showcasing cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot.
Waylan Wine Co.
Minimalist approach to wine making, highlighting fruit from across the valley in a bright, modern tasting bar.
Where to Eat and Stay in Los Olivos
Eat: Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café – A beloved local staple offering California cuisine with Mediterranean flair, this cozy café serves up fresh, seasonal dishes alongside a thoughtfully curated wine list featuring local favorites. Perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner in the heart of wine country.
Stay: Hotel Ynez – Tucked among oaks and olive trees just minutes from Los Olivos, Hotel Ynez is a serene, design forward escape. With spacious rooms, hammocks, fire pits, and a laid back California aesthetic, it’s an ideal retreat after a day of wine tasting.
Plan Your Visit to the Best Vineyards Santa Ynez Has to Offer
- 🍷 Reservations recommended for most estate tastings
- 🧳 Dress in layers—valley mornings can be crisp with temperatures getting warm in the afternoon.
- 🚗 Designate a driver or plan ride shares between tasting rooms
- 💡 Ask about specialty experiences (vineyard tours, library flights) for a more special visit
