If you’re a wine lover looking for a new place to explore, Santa Barbara, California should definitely be on your list. This region is home to some of the best wine bars in the country, offering an array of wines from local vineyards, as well as from around the world. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the best wine bars in Santa Barbara, what makes them special, and why they are definitely worth a visit.
Intermezzo
Intermezzo is a spot that’s loved by locals and visitors alike. It’s the perfect place to go if you want to get a true taste of local flavors, whether you’re after a nice meal, a glass of Santa Barbara wine, or both. Their European-style terrace is ideal for enjoying the scenery while you make your choice from their comprehensive wine list. If you consider yourself to be a bit of a connoisseur, then you won’t be disappointed. Intermezzo has won Wine Spectator Magazine’s Best of Award of Excellence 10 years in a row.
The Good Lion
The Good Lion is a popular cocktail bar located in downtown Santa Barbara, but it also offers an impressive selection of natural wines. This bar is known for its creative cocktails and laid-back atmosphere, making it a great place to try something new. If there are people in your group who don’t love wine as much, this is a great spot for a bit of variety.
Loquita
Loquita is a Spanish-style tapas bar located in downtown Santa Barbara. If you’re after a bit of Rioja or Tempranillo, then you’re in luck. You’ll feel transported to the Mediterranean, as this bar features a selection of wines from Spain and other parts of the world, as well as creative cocktails, tapas, and a variety of small plates. Loquita is a great place to go if you want to try something new and different.
Santa Barbara Wine Collective
The Santa Barbara Wine Collective is a cooperative tasting room located in the Funk Zone neighborhood of Santa Barbara. This tasting room is a collaboration among six different wineries, giving visitors the chance to try a variety of wines in one location. Enjoy a tasting on their sunny patio, or take a wine and food pairing class.
The Valley Project
This bar, located in the Funk Zone, specializes in wines from Santa Barbara County, and offers a selection of wines that highlight the different microclimates and soils that go into the making of the wine you get to enjoy there. They even offer a “Winemaker’s Experience,” which is a private tasting with one of their featured winemakers, where you can learn about the winemaking process, ask questions, and taste a selection of wines that have been specifically chosen by the winemaker.
Satellite
Satellite is a trendy vegetarian restaurant and wine bar located in downtown Santa Barbara. This bar features a curated selection of wines from around the world, with a focus on natural wines, as well as craft beers for those who’d rather skip the vino. Satellite is a great place to go if you’d like to dive into the world of wine education, or just to enjoy a chic evening out with friends or a date.
Barbareño
Barbareño is a restaurant and wine bar located in downtown Santa Barbara, focused on featuring the stunning flavors of the Central Coast. This bar features a selection of wines from local vineyards, as well as creative, farm-to-table, seasonal cuisine. Barbareño has a cozy, intimate atmosphere, with a warm, welcoming decor that reflects the restaurant’s commitment to local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
Santa Barbara is a great destination for wine lovers, with a variety of wine bars that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a classic wine bar with an extensive wine list or a more laid-back spot that specializes in small-batch wines, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Santa Barbara.