Currently my favorite Chardonnay. Justin Willett, winemaker, James Ontiveros, viticulturist. 51 year old, own rooted vines, 18 months in 35% new Damy oak. Mineral, complex, hints of ginger/animal cracker, citrus, 98 points Wilder/Purely Domestic #wine. Goodness gracious! 2019 Rancho Vinedo

Brian (Life of): 'We're all individuals!"
Random dude in back: 'I'm not!'
Good to see you here, Mark. Hope all is well. Come visit us in Santa Barbara #wine country.

First rains in Santa Barbara #wine country since Spring! Expected 1-3" total from the storm--a perfect way to start the year, get the cover crop up and avoid erosion on hillside #vineyards. We average about 10" a year historically, which makes us a Mediterranean desert. Sandy soil=great drainage

#santabarbarawinecountry is getting it's first measurable rain since May, 2024. The golden hills will move to green in the next month or so, and will be lush and gorgeous for your trip to our #wine country. Rain is excellent for washing salt from the vine roots, while irrigation adds salts.

I'm excited to have landed here to talk #wine , #winehistory , #santabarbarawine , #pinotnoir , #chardonnay , and all things #foodandwine. Let's share a glass and a chat!