Region Description:
Commercial vineyards were literally non-existent in the region until the 1890's. In 2001 it gained its AVA recognition. The Santa Rita Hills run east to west inside the Santa Ynez Valley. The valley creates a natural channel allowing cool ocean air from the Pacific Ocean to flow through the valley. The micro climate created in the Santa Rita Hills area is well-suited for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.