Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Santa Barbara County, the Santa Rita Hills has quietly become a trending wine tour destination. With its unique terroir, diverse grape varieties, and stunning vineyard views, this gem has transformed into a prominent destination for wine tours, luring limo visitors with its exceptional wines and gorgeous wine country. Let us delve into why the Santa Rita Hills is undoubtedly worth a visit and why limo wine tours have become increasingly popular here.
What Makes Sta. Rita Hills Unique?
One of California’s youngest AVAs (American Viticultural Areas), it was established in 2001. Prior to 2006, it was known as Santa Rita Hills but due to protests from a wine region of Chile, the region was renamed to Sta Rita Hills in 2006. Situated in between the small towns of Buellton and Lompoc, the area features the coolest and windiest climate of the Santa Ynez Valley. In fact, its microclimate is fifteen degrees cooler during the growing season than the eastern part of the Santa Ynez Valley. Wineries have existed in this area since the early 1970s but few commercial wineries were present prior to the 80s. It remains one of the smallest AVAs in the state.
The Wine Scene
The Santa Rita Hills is home to 3,000 vineyard acres, 60+ vineyards, and 50+ wineries. It is particularly famous for its exceptional Pinot Noir. Among the most popular wineries here is the pioneering Sanford, which was one of the first vineyards here. Wine tour clients also frequently visit Alma Rosa, Babock, Lafond, and Melville Vineyards. The tasting room at Alma Rosa was depicted in the film Sideways and is particularly famous. The LA Times has called the winemaker at Babock one of the top ten winemakers of the year, while Lafond is an excellent option for outdoor picnicking. Adobe tours at Sanford is also a popular choice for wine tours.
What Else?
The town of Lompoc has been named the gateway to Santa Rita Hills wine country. Here you have many options for dining, wine-tasting, horseback riding, lodging, and more. The most fully restored of all California missions, La Purisma Mission, is a particularly popular stop for limo riders. Lompoc offers a plethora of delights, from exquisite dining and wine-tasting to adventurous horseback riding and comfortable lodging options.
SEE ALSO: Top-Rated Santa Ynez Wine Tours!
The Santa Rita Hills have emerged as a wine destination that embodies the best of California’s wine country. From its awe-inspiring terroir and captivating vineyard views to the burgeoning wine scene and exceptional wineries, it offers an enchanting experience for wine lovers. The growing popularity of limo wine tours further enhances the allure of Santa Rita Hills, ensuring that visitors can revel in the splendor of the region’s wines and breathtaking landscapes with comfort, luxury, and elegance. So, whether you are an ardent wine connoisseur or simply seeking a memorable escapade, Santa Rita Hills is a must-visit limo destination that promises an unforgettable wine tour adventure.
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