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Sunday, March 17, 2013

Santa Barbara's ultimate wineries

By Philip von Wrede


Santa Barbara's best-kept wineries

For great shopping, great food, great culture and wineries, Santa Barbara has it all. Unlike the commercialism of Napa, try escaping to Santa Barbara. With the beaches, the eateries and resorts, I think Santa Barbara is the most unique wine region in California.

Santa Barbara is a pedestrian-friendly community with incredible architecture, beautiful mountains, rolling valleys and miles of exotic beaches.

The 3 top wineries are Santa Barbara Winery, Kalyra Winery and Oreana Winery.

Santa Barbara Winery is located at: 202 Ancapa St in Santa Barbara. Started in 1962 by Pierre Lafond, the winery was the first since prohibition and helped spark the wine industry of the Santa Ynez Valley. Santa Barbara Winery produces the following wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Chardonnay, Syrah, Petite Syrah, Pinot Noir among others.

Only $5 bucks for wine tasting. 6 different wines and you get to keep the glass for only $5! Amazing value, great atmosphere and friendly staff! Notably exceptional wines and the Riesling is incredible! After a great day of wine tasting, plan on stopping by this winery and stroll out onto the beach since the beach is within walking distance to the winery.

Overall this was a great experience, very enjoyable, and drinkable wine, even for those not used to it, or those for whom this may be your first tasting. We will certainly be back to visit Santa Barbara Winery.

Secondly, located 212 State Street is Kalyra winery. Their main winery is in the Santa Ynez valley and this is their second location. Just two blocks from the beach, Kalyra has a cool, fun, adventurous wine experience. The winemaker is from Australia and has been making wine in Australia and California for over 20 years which gives the winery an Australian vibe. The winery also has free movie nights periodically.

For a $10 wine tasting fee, we tasted 3 reds, 3 whites and 2 dessert wines. Their specialty is dessert wines, this spot is incredible if you are into the sweeter variety.

Overall, I must say that I had a fantastic wine experience here, and will gladly return in the near future. If you were into the movie, "Sideways" (2004), try to spot where Miles (Paul Giamatti) and Jack (Thomas Haden Church) meet Stephanie (Sandra Oh) at the bar. It was here at Kalyra!

Last but not least and located at 205 Anacapa street is is Oreana Winery. With creative wines such as "bacon wine", this winery is a must try. When visiting Oreana, they were very generous with their tasting. This winery did not skimp on the tastings. A definite plus especially when it's great wine. This winery was redeveloped from an old gas station and using its bones, transformed it into an incredible winery tasting room.

When visiting Santa Barbara, these are 3 wineries that you need to visit.




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