In 1999, this land in the heart of Santa Barbara's Santa Rita Hills AVA became Sea Smoke Vineyard. Located on south-facing hillside bluffs, our Sea Smoke Estate receives plenty of sunshine but then, so does most of California. What makes our vineyard truly special is its shallow clay soils, south facing slopes, and the layer of marine fog (sea "smoke") that travels up the Santa Ynez River canyon each evening, cooling our vines. This cooling influence makes extended hang time possible prior to harvest allowing flavors and tannins to fully mature, while still maintaining lovely acidity. This results in wines that are lush, elegant and expressive
