The Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance promotes the wine industry in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA located in Santa Barbara County on California's Central Coast.One of California's smallest AVA's, the Sta Rita Hills is home to just over 2,000 acres of Pinot Noir and 500 acres of Chardonnay vineyards. AVA pioneer Richard Sanford planted the first vineyard in 1974 and the region has contiuned to grow and prosper producing aromatic, balanced and food friendly wines.Just a few miles off the Pacific Ocean the transverse mountain range funnels a cool marine layer across the valley, providing the perfect growing conditions for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The cities of Lompoc and Buellton bookend this charming neighborhood and welcome visitors with genuine hospitality.
