Santa Ynez Wine Tasting Itinerary: The Ideal 1, 2 & 3 Day Schedule
Whether your in Santa Ynez Valley for a relaxing afternoon or a full wine country weekend, this detailed Santa Ynez wine tasting itinerary walks you through when to arrive, where to sip, where to eat, and even where you can enjoy a bring your own picnic. We’ve included precise timing and curated winery experience so your trip is effortless, delicious, and unforgettable.
📍Day One: Buellton & Santa Ynez—Laid Back Estate Charm
☕9:30 AM – Light Breakfast in Solvang
Stop by Good Seed Coffee Boutique in Solvang for a light breakfast and quality espresso before a day of tasting. Grab a pastry or breakfast bowl to start the morning right.
🍷11:00 AM – Tasting at Brick Barn Wine Estate
Brick Barn Wine Estate is the perfect first stop. Located just outside Buellton on a historic 35-acre estate, Brick Barn’s outdoor tasting spaces and vineyard views set the tone for the day. Try estate grown Albariño, Cabyrah Rosé, and Syrah. Reservations recommended.
Picnic Friendly? Yes—shaded tables and patio furniture available for snacks or light bites brought from town.
🕧12:30 PM – Lunch at Industrial Eats
Head down the street for a wood fired lunch at Industrial Eats, a beloved Buellton stop known for artisan sandwiches, flatbreads, and locally sourced dishes. Great for groups and casual diners alike.
🍷2:00 PM – Tasting at Buscador Winery
Buscador Winery is just down the street. Inside a modern warehouse space, you’ll meet big red wines and personal service from the winemaker himself. Look for bold Bordeaux style blends and rich Rhône varietals.
🍷3:30 PM – Tasting at Tierra y Vino
Wrap up the afternoon at Tierra y Vino, just a stones throw from Buscador. A cozy tasting room known for Tempranillo, Sauvignon Blanc, and Grenache Rosé. It’s a peaceful, intimate spot with deep roots in Santa Ynez winemaking.
🛏️Where to Stay: Vinland Hotel in Solvang—Boutique and central.
🚗Travel Tip: Book a designated driver or car service—Ubers are available but limited after 5 PM.
📍Day Two: Los Olivos & Ballard Canyon—Rhône and Village Vibes
☕9:30 AM – Morning Stroll + Coffee at the Baker’s Table
Hop on over to Santa Ynez and enjoy fresh pastries and a cappuccino at The Baker’s Table. Their organic breakfast items are a local favorite. Take a stroll around the town afterward and check out the boutique shops.
🍷10:30 AM – Tasting at Stolpman Vineyards
Stolpman in Ballard Canyon offers fresh, energetic lineup—”Love You Bunches” red, Roussanne, and Syrah—alongside stories about sustainable farming and dry farmed vines. Great way to energize your morning.
🕛12:00 PM – Picnic Lunch at Beckmen Vineyard
Beckmen not only offers gorgeous views of their vineyard next to gazebos and duck ponds, but they welcome guests to bring their own food. Stop at local deli like El Rancho Market, Lucky Hen Larder, or Panino on the way and pack a gourmet spread to enjoy with their elegant estate grown Syrah and Chardonnay.
Picnic Friendly? Yes — tables available outdoors.
🍷2:00 PM – Tasting at Story of Soil
Located in downtown Los Olivos, Story of Soil focuses on site specific Grenache and Pinot Noir. Their tasting room is small, intimate, and educational. Reservations recommended.
🍷3:30 PM – Tasting at Dragonette Cellars
Have time (and energy)? Visit Dragonette for complex, highly rated Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. It’s a top tier experience for serious wine lovers.
🛏️Where to Stay: Fess Parker Wine Country Inn — Walkable, elegant, and central to everything.
🍽️Dinner Suggestion: Bar Le Côte — Excellent seafood and wine pairings
📍Day Three: Sta. Rita Hills—Coastal Pinot & Chardonnay Country
☕9:30 AM – Coffee & Pastries at Bob’s Well Bread
Stop by Bob’s Well Bread in Los Alamos or Ballard for artisan morning fuel before heading into cooler wine country. A very popular and must try bakery in the valley.
🍷11:00 AM – Tasting at Sanford Winery
Sanford is legendary in Sta. Rita Hills. Visit their dramatic stone and wood tasting room and sample Pinot Noir from historic vines like Sanford & Benedict.
🕧12:30 PM – Lunch at The Hitching Post II
Made famous by the movie Sideways, The Hitching Post II in Buellton serves classic California cuisine and house wines with a side of local lore. Try the burger or grilled artichokes.
🍷2:00 PM – Tasting at Melville Winery
Melville offers one of the most picturesque tastings in the valley. Sip estate grown Pinot Noir and Viognier while overlooking rows of vines stretching toward the coast.
🍷3:30 PM – Tasting at Babcock Winery
Right next door to Melville is Babcock. A fun and eclectic way to end your trip with an upscale funky thrift store inside the tasting room barn. Plenty of seating outdoors and themed “living rooms” indoors.
🛏️ Where to Stay: Hotel Ynez — modern, cozy hideaway tucked among oaks near Solvang.
🚗 Tasting Tip: Consider booking a tour van for a full day in Sta. Rita Hills if your group plans to buy or taste heavily.
Final Tips for Your Santa Ynez Wine Tasting Itinerary
- Reserve early: Most wineries accept walk-ins but reservations are always recommended
- Stay hydrated: Bring water bottles and snacks
- Buy bottles you love: Many places will waive the tasting fee with a bottle purchase
- Pack a cooler: Keeps cheese, chocolate, or leftovers picnic ready
- Use a driver or rideshare: Wine country is safest (and more fun) when you plan ahead and have a designated driver
Keep In Touch
We hope this detailed Santa Ynez wine tasting itinerary helps you plan the perfect getaway—whether you’re here for a day or staying for the weekend. Be sure to include a stop at Brick Barn Wine Estate on your journey; we’d love to share our wines and estate with you. Have questions, want to share your experience, or just say hello? Follow us on Instagram @brickbarnwineestate and tag us in your adventures—we’re always excited to see how you sip and explore Santa Ynez wine country!
