Sta. Rita Hills AVA

Sta. Rita Hills AVA encompasses transverse hills at the cool western end of Santa Ynez Valley. intense Pacific wind, fog, cool temperatures, and a long season, marine sedimentary soils with diatomaceous earth, shale, and sandy loam, and varied exposures shape high-acid Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

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Overview

Sta. Rita Hills AVA occupies transverse hills at the cool western end of Santa Ynez Valley. Elevation, slope, and distance from the Pacific create meaningful local differences. Intense Pacific wind, fog, cool temperatures, and a long season guide ripening, while marine sedimentary soils with diatomaceous earth, shale, and sandy loam influence drainage and vigor. Its clearest identity is high-acid Pinot Noir and Chardonnay; vineyard and producer links provide deeper specificity.

Geography & Climate

The AVA encompasses transverse hills at the cool western end of Santa Ynez Valley, with slopes, elevations, and exposures creating important variation.

Soils

Marine sedimentary soils with diatomaceous earth, shale, and sandy loam influence water retention, drainage, rooting depth, and vigor.

Wine Styles

The area is best represented by high-acid Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.