Tom and Marilyn Stolpman founded Stolpman Vineyards in 1990 after making the decision that Marilyn’s dream of an “investment we can enjoy” could include finding the perfect piece of property that could grow world-class wine grapes.Through extensive experimentation with many varietals, the team has perfected its offerings of Syrah, Roussanne, Sangiovese and Sauvignon Blanc. Limited plantings of Grenache, Viognier, Petite Sirah, and Chardonnay serve as blending grapes.
Rusack was established in 1995 by Geoff Rusack and Alison Wrigley Rusack with a commitment to creating world-class wines. In the years since then, this dedication to quality has meant some dramatic changes at the winery. The most visible change is in the vineyard. Following the 2001 harvest, many of the original vines were pulled out and replanted. Utilizing cutting edge technology and taking advantage of Ballard Canyon’s unique terroir, varieties to be grown were carefully chosen and limited to those clones best suited to the microclimate. Syrah, Sangiovese, and Sauvignon Blanc have been planted, along with smaller lots of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot to be blended into the renowned "Anacapa."
The Bonaccorsi Wine Company, founded in 1999, emerged from the vision of Master Sommelier Michael Bonaccorsi, who aimed to craft exceptional Burgundian and Rhône-style wines in California’s Central Coast. Recognized as one of the top Master Sommeliers in the world, Mike was a perfectionist and a collaborative force within the local winemaking community. His first vintages garnered acclaim, with some of the highest-rated Pinot Noir and Syrah wines that even graced the tables of the White House and some of the finest restaurants across the United States.
Despite his success and accolades, Mike remained humble, known for his keen sense of humor and generosity. Tragically, he passed away suddenly in January 2004 at the age of 43, leaving behind a loving family, including his wife, Jenne Lee Bonaccorsi, his parents, and 11 siblings, among them Rich and Joe.
From 2004 to 2018, Jenne took the reins of Bonaccorsi Wine Company, continuing the legacy by producing some of the most highly acclaimed wines in the Central Coast. Rich and Joe supported Jenne throughout these years, participating in harvests, pouring wines at tastings, and championing the Michael Bonaccorsi Memorial Scholarship at Allan Hancock College, along with the endowment at the University of California, Davis, aimed at nurturing the next generation of winemakers.
Rich and Joe have always believed in their brother Mike's vision. From the company’s inception, they served as financial partners, wine pourers, informal salespeople, and, most importantly, proud brothers. Now, alongside their wives, Desiree and Mary Clare, they continue to carry forward the Bonaccorsi Wine Company with love, humility, and immense joy, inviting wine enthusiasts to experience the passion and spirit that define their family’s wines.
Image: Saman Teher, Pixabay
DEEP SEA and Conway Wines are produced by siblings Tom, John, and Gillian Conway in Santa Barbara, California.
DEEP SEA Wines are sourced from coastal vineyards to reflect the maritime influence of the Pacific Ocean. Crafted in a contemporary style, these wines cater to the modern wine drinker.
Conway Wines are sourced from the highest quality vineyards in Santa Barbara. The best barrels, lots, or vineyard sources are reserved for this label, which was created for the Conway family. These wines exhibit the most character, complexity, and ageability in the cellar.
Based in Santa Barbara County, much of the land planted with grapevines is located within twenty miles of the Pacific Ocean. The coastal air is cooler than inland regions, and the unique geology of Santa Barbara County, particularly in areas like the Sta. Rita Hills, traps cool air and moisture in the valleys. This “ocean effect” allows the grapes used for DEEP SEA wines to ripen over a longer period. The slow, steady development of this fruit leads to the perfect balance of sugar, acidity, and mature flavors, signaling the ideal time to harvest. Wines from this area are known for their balance, bright acidity, and beautiful California fruit, all of which are captured in DEEP SEA wines.
DEEP SEA and Conway Wines are produced by siblings Tom, John, and Gillian Conway in Santa Barbara, California.
DEEP SEA Wines are sourced from coastal vineyards to reflect the maritime influence of the Pacific Ocean. Crafted in a contemporary style, these wines cater to the modern wine drinker.
Conway Wines are sourced from the highest quality vineyards in Santa Barbara. The best barrels, lots, or vineyard sources are reserved for this label, which was created for the Conway family. These wines exhibit the most character, complexity, and ageability in the cellar.
Based in Santa Barbara County, much of the land planted with grapevines is located within twenty miles of the Pacific Ocean. The coastal air is cooler than inland regions, and the unique geology of Santa Barbara County, particularly in areas like the Sta. Rita Hills, traps cool air and moisture in the valleys. This “ocean effect” allows the grapes used for DEEP SEA wines to ripen over a longer period. The slow, steady development of this fruit leads to the perfect balance of sugar, acidity, and mature flavors, signaling the ideal time to harvest. Wines from this area are known for their balance, bright acidity, and beautiful California fruit, all of which are captured in DEEP SEA wines.
When Bennie Cassara first set foot on this mountain top retreat he knew this was the place for which he had been looking. Bennie a brick mason by trade was busy running his Masonry construction company in Orange County California, but he was looking for a place where he and his could get away from the daily grind. It was in 1990 the first vines were planted on the tiny hilltop estate. Bennie Cassara chose Pinot Noir grapes at the urging of his friend Brian Babcock of the Babcock Winery. Brian told Bennie his property would be the perfect growing environment for Pinot Noir grapes, this variatal is grown on hillsides in France, and Brian knew the combination of warm days and cool foggy nights would be perfect. Much of the rest of the story is in the glass.
Founded in 1996 by Bill Foley, Lincourt is a producer of ultra premium wines from the Santa Barbara County. Named in honor of Bill and Carol’s two daughters, Lindsay and Courtney, the Lincourt winery is located in the heart of Santa Barbara wine country, on Alamo Pintado Road in the Santa Ynez Valley. Originally a dairy farm, the 30 acre property retains the rural charm and simplicity of an earlier era. The quaint tasting room is located in the former farmhouse.
In the Sta. Rita Hills, it all began with Sanford. In 1971, the Sanford & Benedict Vineyard became the first vineyard in what would develop into a world-class, cool-climate wine-growing region. From its inception, Sanford Winery has been a pioneer in the Sta. Rita Hills, thriving and innovating under the vision and hands-on leadership of the Terlato family.
The story starts with botanist Michael Benedict and his friend Richard Sanford, who were dedicated to finding a cool climate location with just enough heat to ripen wine grapes without over-ripening them. They sought a place where they could grow grapes and craft wines that would rival the best in Europe.
Michael embarked on an extensive journey, researching and touring the cool coastal regions of California to find the ideal site. After much observation and data collection, he identified a unique part of the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara County, located at the foot of what would ultimately become the Sanford & Benedict Vineyard. The first vines were planted in 1971, and the Pinot Noir from this remote vineyard soon generated significant buzz. This success inspired others to seek out the magic of the region, establishing the foundation for what is now the Sta. Rita Hills AVA.
Though Michael Benedict and Richard Sanford would part ways after the 1980 vintage, Sanford Winery continued to flourish. Over the years, it has remained notable for its pioneering history and for producing exceptional wines from the Sanford & Benedict Vineyard, which also supplied cuttings for many surrounding vineyards.
Epiphany finds its identity and passion in the production of esoteric Rhone-based varietals and blends from some of the finest vineyard designates in California.
Ampelos has been a family endeavor from the start.Initially “corporate folks”, we loved getting away to the Sta. Rita Hills on the weekends and dreamt of one day planting our own vineyard and making wines. A cancelled meeting in New York on the morning of September 11, 2001 helped us to realize that someday was today! Driven by a deep love and passion for the art of viticulture. We are truly a small boutique winery producing about 3500 cases a year. Our focus is viognier, rosé of syrah, pinot noir, syrah and grenache.
Pierre Lafond opened Santa Barbara Winery in 1962. Lafond Vineyard first planted in 1971 and Lafond Winery opened in 2001. Bruce McGuire: winemaker David Lafond: General Manager.Bruce's winemaking philosophy begins in the vineyard. He believes the quality and integrity of the wine is extricably linked to what happens in the field, from pruning in winter, to the harvest in autumn.
