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NEW SINGLE-VINEYARD RELEASES FROM STA. RITA HILLS' FINEST
2014 RANCHO LA VIÑA VINEYARD PINOT NOIR
 This remarkable vineyard is located at the far western edge of the Sta. Rita Hills appellation where vines are fully exposed to the cool winds coming off the Pacific Ocean. The wine displays a medium garnet color, rich undertones and an appealing brightness from the pure fruit expression. Aromas of mixed berries are enhanced by hints of earth, anise and spice. On the palate, flavors of black cherry and red currant are accented by hints of black peppercorn and grilled portabella mushroom. An opulent mid palate supported by velvety tannins gives way to a lingering finish. The wine will continue to grow in complexity with additional cellaring. More info
 2014 RITA'S CROWN VINEYARD PINOT NOIR
Rita’s Crown is located at an elevation of 600 to 950 feet on a dramatic southwest-facing slope, making it one of the highest planted vineyards in the AVA. The site is particularly exposed to coastal fog and cool marine breezes from the nearby Pacific Ocean, and has sandy loam soils with ancient seashell deposits. This Pinot Noir is dense and rich with alluring, well integrated aromatics and flavors. Vibrant wild cherry and plum aromas mingle with hints of fresh earth, pink peppercorn and a subtle mineral component. On the palate, ripe cherry flavors are enhanced by a touch of pomegranate, dark chocolate and rose petals. The wine has an exceptionally luxurious texture from start to finish, assuring graceful development and excellent cellar potential. More info
UPCOMING EVENTS
 April 20-23, 2016 SANTA BARBARA VINTNERS SPRING WEEKEND
Celebrate four days of wine, food and fun throughout Santa Barbara Wine Country. The Festival Grand Tasting is on Saturday, April 22 from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m at River View Park in Buellton, and features new release wines from member wineries, food sampling from more than twenty food purveyors, live music, wine and culinary demonstrations, local artisans and a silent auction.
June 24, 2017 | 2:00 to 5:00 pm SANTA BARBARA WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
A favorite tasting for locals featuring over 50 premier Central Coast wineries and dozens of gourmet food purveyors. Takes place on the beautiful museum grounds along Mission Creek under the oaks. $75 for museum members, $100 for non-members.
Click here for our complete Winery Calendar of Events
Santa Barbara County has received an average of 175% of normal rainfall so far this season, resulting in lush cover crops in our vineyards. Cover crops help aerate the soil, prevent erosion and provide a a home for beneficial insects that feed on destructive pests such as mites and mealy bugs. When cover crops are tilled into the soil at the end of winter, they deliver valuable nitrogen to the soil that is usable by the grape vines.
Ken captured this photo of the cover crops and beautiful green hills on his latest visit to Rio Vista Vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills.
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