In the heart of Santa Barbara’s vibrant Funk Zone, The Valley Project offers a unique tasting experience that transports visitors through the diverse terroirs of Santa Barbara County. On a recent visit, I had the pleasure of exploring their tasting room, guided by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable hostess who brought each wine’s story to life.
The experience began with The Valley Project 2022 Sauvignon Blanc from Vogelzang Vineyard in Happy Canyon. Known for its warm days and cool nights, Happy Canyon provides an ideal climate for Sauvignon Blanc, allowing the grapes to develop vibrant acidity and tropical fruit flavors. This wine was a refreshing introduction, bursting with notes of passion fruit and a hint of minerality that reflected the vineyard’s unique terroir.
Next, we tasted the 2021 Chardonnay from Bien Nacido Vineyard in Santa Maria Valley. This renowned vineyard benefits from a cool, fog-laden climate, perfect for producing Chardonnays with bright acidity and complex flavors. The wine was a delightful expression of its origin, offering a harmonious blend of citrus and stone fruit with a subtle touch of oak, capturing the essence of Santa Maria’s microclimate.
The journey continued with The Valley Project 2021 Pinot Noir from Rancho La Vina Vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills. Sta. Rita Hills is celebrated for its cool climate, influenced by coastal breezes, making it a haven for Pinot Noir. This wine showcased the region’s potential with its elegant structure, featuring aromas of red cherry and earth, complemented by a silky texture that lingered on the palate.
We then explored the 2020 Cinsault from Camp 4 Vineyard in the Los Olivos District. This area is known for its warm climate and diverse soils, providing a perfect environment for Rhône varietals like Cinsault. The wine was a lively expression, with aromas of red berries and a touch of spice, embodying the warmth and richness of the Los Olivos District.
Our tasting concluded with The Valley Project 2021 Petit Verdot from Vogelzang Vineyard in Happy Canyon. Petit Verdot thrives in Happy Canyon’s warm climate, developing concentrated flavors and deep color. This wine was a bold finale, with intense notes of blackberry and violet, balanced by firm tannins and a long finish.
As a special treat, we tasted Kunin’s 2020 Pape Star Central Coast Red Wine. Kunin Wines, the owners of The Valley Project, craft this blend with a nod to Rhône traditions. The wine was a harmonious blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, offering a rich tapestry of dark fruit, spice, and earthy undertones—an exquisite reflection of the Central Coast’s diverse vineyards.
The Valley Project is more than just a tasting room; it’s a tribute to the complexity and beauty of Santa Barbara’s wine regions. With each glass, guests are taken on a journey through the county’s distinct microclimates, guided by passionate hosts who make the experience both informative and delightful. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious novice, The Valley Project promises a memorable exploration of Santa Barbara’s vinous landscape.
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