Did you know that there are over 120 wineries in Santa Ynez Valley? Wondering, which ones out of 120 pour the best red wine? Wonder no more! The team and I put on our tasting hats on over the weekend to explore this very question. Here are our four favorite wineries pouring delightful reds in Santa Barbara County.
1. Sunstone Winery
Welcome to one of the oldest organic vineyards in Santa Ynez Valley! This 28-acre retreat is home to varietals like Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and more. But they are the most well-known for their world-class Bordeaux and Rhone-style wines. They even won a Santa Barbara Independent reader poll as “Santa Barbara’s Favorite Red Wine.” Also, the majority of their wines receive 90+ ratings from Wine Enthusiast.
Tasting Fee: $20 Per Person – Six Wine Tasting Flight
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2. Gainey Vineyard
Welcome to a fourth-generation family-owned winery! Founded in 1984, Gainey Vineyard was established as a Spanish-style winery designed to produce small quantities of high-quality wine. The Sta. Rita Hills, home to some of their vineyards has an ideal climate for flavorful reds. Recently, the release of their 2108 Limited Selection Pino Noir was given 93 points by the Wine Enthusiast.
Tasting Fee: $20 Per Person – House Flight
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3. Roblar Winery & Vineyard
Feeling hungry on your quest to enjoy the best red wine in Santa Ynez Valley? Roblar Winery & Vineyard has you covered! They have a tasty bites menu from the farm right next door. Their menu changes on a seasonal basis to ensure only the freshest of ingredients. It’ll come as no surprise that their reds, pair fabulously with their fresh cheese and fruit!
Tasting Fee: $15 Per Person – Classic Wine Tasting | $20 Per Person -Reserve Wine Tasting
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4. Vincent Vineyards & Winery
Specializing in French Cabernet varietals, this family-owned and operated winery in Santa Ynez Valley offers a wide selection of delightful reds. The quality of their wine speaks for itself as the majority of their reds often receive above 90 points from Wine Enthusiast. You also won’t find their wines anywhere else, as they’re not available for wholesale or retail – they’re exclusively for wine enthusiasts who visit their winery in Santa Barbara County. So, make sure to grab a couple of bottles before you leave, so you can enjoy their wine weeks after visiting.
Tasting Fee: Varies
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Explore Santa Ynez Valley With A Wine Tour
There are so many phenomenal wineries in Santa Ynez Valley! Do yourself a favor and schedule a luxurious wine tour, so you can ensure you get the full wine tasting experience. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed. We have professional drivers with vehicles of all sizes (from a luxury sedan to a Limo Bus) to transport you safely. Our team of travel concierges are standing by to help recommend some of the best wineries in Santa Ynez for red wine. You can give them a call to set up a wine tour or learn more at (805) 620-7233, or fill out the form below for a complimentary wine tour quote.
