A celebration to honor my great-aunt’s 100th birthday. That’s how I recently wound up in Santa Barbara, CA. My sweet aunt El has walked this earth for an entire century – can you even imagine?! Of course, most of the trip was spent with family: drinking chardonnay, gathering for meals, overwhelming our sense of smell at the International Orchid Show, and getting schooled on Brandy Alexander’s by none other than aunt El. [LIFE HACK: she claims the secret to living 100 years is a glass of chardonnay at 5pm every day, and I have no reason to doubt her!] In the midst of everything, I managed to find myself with an entire day to explore the area. And seeing how the course of longevity is best accompanied by a nice evening glass of chardonnay, how could I not delve into all that Santa Ynez’s wine country has to offer?
When most people think of California wine, they think Napa Valley. And rightfully so. But when visiting Santa Barbara, there’s no need to head 400 miles north for a great wine experience. Instead, head to the Santa Ynez Wineries, a short 40 minutes north of downtown. Throw in the town of Solvang and, if you really want to mix it up, a stop at an ostrich and emu farm, and you have yourself the perfect little one-day adventure.
A Modern Tasting Experience
Kick off your Santa Ynez wineries day at Alma Rosa Winery’s tasting room. Alma Rosa is the first certified organic vineyard in Santa Barbara County. Alma Rosa’s tasting room is located in an industrial park in Buellton, about 45 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara and just a few miles from the Danish town of Solvang. The tasting room is open seating, with a mixture of low tables with benches and high tops with stools. Unlike many places, tastings are conducted table side rather than standing along a tasting counter. Once the wine is poured and explained, you’re left on your own to sip and socialize until you’re ready for your next tasting.
Interact with Ostriches and Emus
Need a little break before your next tasting? OstrichLand USA offers a unique way to get some fresh air while getting up close and personal with ostriches and emus. For $5 you can walk the grounds and for an additional $1, you can feed the animals. The animals are trained to eat from the feed buckets and will hang out near the fences waiting for you (or at least your feed). Remember, these are wild animals so keep your hands on your side of the fence and hold on tight to the feed pan — those things don’t mess around when it comes to food!
French Countryside Meets California Vibes
Next, continue to Sunstone Winery. Sunstone Winery has been declared “Best Santa Ynez Valley Tasting Room” several times, and who can argue? The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive is the stunning stone building lined with vines and surrounded by beautiful gardens and inviting sitting areas. The tasting room is located through a striking arch doorway incorporated into a stone building that feels like it should be in the French countryside. Head straight to the tasting counter or veer to the right for a sample of their oils and vinegars. The stone walls, delicious wines, and welcoming wine specialist may make you not want to leave the tasting area, but be sure to venture onto the grounds and take in the scenic views while your enjoy a glass of wine.
Danish Retreat
After Sunstone Winery, take a break from wine with a visit to the Danish town of Solvang. Grab a bite at one of the several restaurants lining the streets of this small town then pretend you’ve magically teleported to Denmark as you take a stroll amongst the Danish-style architecture. Be sure to stop by one of the Danish bakeries – there are five within five blocks – and grab dessert to take to the next winery.
Oak Trees and Rolling Hills
Wrap up your Santa Ynez wineries day at Rusack Vineyards. Rusack Vineyards is only 10 minutes from Solvang and though it may look small from the outside, don’t be deceived. Their unique tasting experience starts at the counter where you receive your pour, then head outside to enjoy your tasting under the ancient oak trees while you take in the rolling hills of Ballard Canyon. When you’re ready for your next tasting, head back to the counter, let them know which one you’re on, then head back outside and enjoy the rest of your mini Santa Barbara getaway.
