Story of Soil

Story of Soil pairs single-vineyard winemaking with a Los Olivos, California, tasting room, making it a worthwhile stop for travelers interested in Santa Barbara County beyond its familiar Pinot Noir. Winemaker Jessica Gasca brings an apprenticeship at Sanguis and experience stretching back to her first vintage in 2012. Her focus stays deliberately narrow: individual grape varieties from carefully chosen vineyards, made in small lots with gentle handling and minimal intervention.

Pinot Noir takes several forms here, including bottlings from Gold Coast Vineyard, La Rinconada Vineyard, and Bentrock Vineyard. Syrah gets similar attention through separate bottlings from Ampelos Vineyard, Stolpman Vineyard, and Presquile Vineyard. Sauvignon Blanc, Gamay Noir, and rosé of Pinot Noir broaden the choices. The appeal is the chance to explore vineyard differences without limiting the tasting to one grape.

The tasting room at 2928 San Marcos Avenue opens daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with patio space and wine available by the glass or bottle. Seated tastings cost $30 per guest; reservations are strongly recommended because seating is limited, though walk-ins fit when space allows. A separate private winery experience offers a seated tasting among the barrels for $50 per guest, with reservations for one to eight people.