Santa Ynez Wine Country

Santa Ynez wine country is one of several wine appellations in Santa Barbara County. One can easily explore this exciting wine country when visiting Solvang, Buellton or Los Olivos. It is about a 45-minute drive from the city of Santa Barbara. There are many excellent wineries to explore on this wine route. You can view our favorite wineries along this route on our “Santa Ynez Wine Trail.” Any time of the year is a good time to visit this area. The weather in Santa Ynez is usually mild during this time of the year. Pack a lunch from the Los Olivos Market and make your way to this wine country. The most exciting wine being produced these days in Santa Ynez is Syrah. Rusack Vineyards makes our favorite Syrah. This part of the Santa Ynez wine route is in a sub wine appellation called Ballard Canyon. The canyon provides the precious climate needed to grow the Syrah grape. It is a “must” that you stop in at Rusack and try the Syrah while enjoying a picnic lunch on their deck.