John Sebastiano Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills
As spring arrives on the Central Coast, John Sebastiano Vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills is coming to life. Bud break is here and the vineyard is energized. We’ll be back soon for site visits to soak in the views and watch the vines grow in the coastal breeze.
A Unique Vineyard with a Coastal Twist
Located on the eastern edge of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA, John Sebastiano Vineyard has a cool, windy climate that shapes its grapes. With steep slopes and diverse soils, this site produces Pinot Noir, Syrah and other Rhône varieties known for their acidity and complexity. The coastal influence extends the growing season and allows for slower ripening and more depth in the wines. These wines are characterized by high acidity and moderate tannins, making them well-suited for aging. The wines also offer a variety of intriguing scents, including incense, dried flowers, and minty herbs, which contribute to their overall appeal and complexity.
Overview of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA
Nestled in Santa Barbara County, California, the Sta. Rita Hills AVA is a gem of a wine region. Positioned on the western edge of the Santa Ynez Valley, where the Santa Ynez River meets the Pacific Ocean, this AVA boasts a unique combination of climate, soil, and geography that makes it a prime location for growing exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes.
The cool, foggy climate of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA is heavily influenced by the Pacific Ocean, which moderates temperatures and extends the growing season. This results in wines with remarkable depth and complexity. The region’s soils, a mix of clay, loam, and sand, provide excellent drainage and aeration, essential for healthy grapevines.
Home to several notable vineyards, including the renowned John Sebastiano Vineyard, the Sta. Rita Hills AVA is celebrated for its Pinot Noir and Syrah wines. These wines are characterized by high acidity and moderate tannins, making them well-suited for aging. The wine specs often include flavors of cherry, licorice, and savory notes, adding to their complexity and appeal.
For wine enthusiasts, the Sta. Rita Hills AVA is a must-visit destination. With its scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and rolling hills, the region offers a picturesque backdrop for wine tasting and tours. Many wineries and tasting rooms provide opportunities to explore the diverse wine stock and experience the nuanced flavors that define this exceptional wine region.
Bud Break: The New Season Has Begun
Bud break is one of the best times of the year, it’s the start of the vineyard’s annual cycle. Tiny green buds are popping out of the vines, another vintage full of possibilities. As we enter this new season we’ll be following the vineyard’s progress to ensure the best conditions for the fruit to grow.
Whether you’re a wine lover, viticulture enthusiast or just a fan of John Sebastiano Vineyard, stay tuned for more updates as we go from bud break to harvest.