“I couldn’t agree more with Appellation America’s description of Santa Maria Valley as ‘one the finest viticultural regions in North America.’ It may well have the highest overall quality of grapes and wines of any appellation in California…The Santa Maria Valley is an insider’s secret.”

-Steve Heimoff, acclaimed wine writer

Welcome to the Santa Maria Valley Wine Trail.

Here, in northern Santa Barbara County on California’s Central Coast, you will savor world-class wines at more than a dozen local tasting rooms set amid rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, which were prominently featured in the hit wine-themed movie Sideways.

Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah are just some of the wines that excel in the valley’s temperate coastal climate, which is shaped by a rare “transverse” geography that runs west to east and encourages the influx of cool marine breezes.

The Santa Maria Valley also boasts a local cuisine to match its wines—Santa Maria Style Barbecue. This world-renowned culinary tradition dates back to the 1800s, and is today enjoyed across the region at restaurants, events and celebrations, providing a perfect complement to the wines of the Santa Maria Valley.