Santa Barbara is one of the premier wine destinations not just in California, but in the world. The first tasting room, Santa Barbara Winery, opened in downtown Santa Barbara in 1962, and for 40 years it was the only tasting room in the city.
Around the turn of the millennium, many of the wineries that grow grapes in the surrounding mountains began opening tasting rooms in the city. The Urban Wine Trail refers to about 26 tasting rooms located within just a couple blocks from each other in the downtown area. It’s not only an excellent way to try the spectacular wines that this area is known for, but it’s a treat to get to know what defines this interesting and beautiful city.
The first wine grapes were grown in the Santa Barbara region by missionaries in the late 18th century, and the unique climate and two coastal mountain ranges have continued to produce some of the highest-quality viticulture in the country. The Santa Ynez Mountains and the farther inland San Rafael range create a series of transverse valleys and microclimates, making this region well-suited to grow a diverse range of grapes.
The Pinot Noirs from this region receive a lot of praise, and the range of warmer temperatures in the lower valleys to the cooler weather in the mountains means you’ll see a ton of variety here when it comes to wine selection. You’ll see Chardonnays, Cabernet Sauvignons, Syrahs, and nearly 50 other interesting and unusual varieties as you taste your way through Santa Barbara.
The Urban Wine Trail is popular for wine enthusiasts who want to taste the spectacular wines of this region without having to drive about 45 minutes northeast of the city to visit the wineries. Instead, you can head just downtown and taste your heart while enjoying the art, culture, food, and beer of Santa Barbara in addition to the wine.
The concentration of wineries, fine dining, and West Coast vibes make for a very interesting culture in downtown Santa Barbara. Most wineries offer 4 to 5 tastings for around $15. One of the most eclectic spots where you can start tasting is a neighborhood referred to as the Funk Zone. It’s very modern, featuring converted warehouses, graffiti murals, and other unique art pieces. When your taste buds need a break, take a tour of the Arts Fund Gallery.
If you crave a more mellow and traditional experience, head up Anacapa Street to the Presidio Neighborhood, where you will be surrounded by Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. There are plenty of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and some Bordeaux wines served in this part of town.
It’s impossible to fully savor all 26 wineries in just one day, but here are some of our favorites, where the ambiance and fine wines are exquisitely paired.
Definitely, a must-see on any Urban Wine Trail list, the Santa Barbara Winery is not only the oldest winery in the county, it practically puts this area on the map as an international wine destination. Located in what was once an old tire shop, Oreana Winery offers a stunning array of Pinot Noir, Syrah, small-batch reds, and refreshing whites. Out on the wharf, you can wander into Deep Sea Wines, which offers a stunning grenache blanc, or head out to Kunin for a spectacular sampler of the Rhone wines that Santa Barbara is known for.
The Aussie winemaker at Area 5.1 is known especially for his phenomenal dessert wines, and Au Bon Climate is praised for its Chardonnays and Pinots. The fresh, youthful atmosphere at Municipal Winemakers pairs nicely with their lighter rosés, dark reds, and Grenache. The Grassini Family Vineyards focus on Bordeaux varietals.
There is also a burgeoning craft-brew scene in Santa Barbara, and if you have some beer drinkers in the group, a great place to make everyone happy with their stunning beer and wine selection is Corks and Crowns.
Pick up a map and coupons at the Downtown Guest Services Center, and click here to plan your trip around upcoming events. Parking downtown is about $9 a day and if you plan on purchasing several bottles but not drinking much it’s worth driving so you can stash your wine in the car. Otherwise, we recommend checking out the list of transportation options or guided wine tours. The most popular time to visit Santa Barbara is during the summer, but the temperate climate and friendly locals make it a wonderful year-round destination.
Santa Barbara culture is an interesting blend of new, laid-back traditions, and the finest quality of living. There’s no greater way to get to know the city than by taking a stroll along the Urban Wine Trail and mixing with the locals. Enjoy the avant-garde art, soak in the surfer culture, and sip a world-renowned vintage as you take it all in.
