About Sta. Rita Hills
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the corner of California’s Central Coast
The Sta. Rita Hills is a designated AVA (American Viticulture Area) located between the towns of Buellton and Lompoc. The three east-west running hillsides were geologically twisted and pushed up from the sea floor in ancient times to reveal patches of soil types such as sand, clay and diatomaceous earth. The east-west orientation invites the ocean winds and moisture to filter through the valleys and hills, providing unusually cool temperatures for this latitude and longer growing seasons. Temperatures are known to drop 30-40 degrees between day and night time. This diurnal shift is what nurtures the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes to grow in this unique region.
As you venture east from Buellton toward Santa Ynez, the ocean influence diminishes and temperatures rise. Meaning in roughly 10-20 miles you can find other varietals such as Syrah, Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon that thrive on the heat. There are designated AVAs for these areas too – namely Ballard Canyon, Los Olivos District, Santa Ynez Valley, and Happy Canyon. Within a span of 40 miles, this special corner of California’s Central Coast is home to a breadth of varietals and a winemaker’s dream.
