The Set Wines

Brothers Billy and Christopher Hines bring Louisiana hospitality to The Set Wines, a small-batch producer in Lompoc, California, working with fruit from the Sta. Rita Hills American Viticultural Area in Santa Barbara County. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay anchor the Burgundian influence, while Syrah, Gamay, and Viognier broaden the range. Organically farmed home vineyards supply the fruit; the emphasis is on wines for the dinner table rather than bottles that demand a special occasion.

Christopher’s interest in music gives the winery its name and visual identity: drum sets, set lists, and sound waves all play a part. The labels translate instrumental wavelengths into graphics, giving the bottles a look that departs from the usual vineyard sketch. Current releases range from a $25 2023 Rosé to a $60 2022 Select Pinot Noir.

The visit is about the working winery, not the scenery. At 1700-B Industrial Way, guests taste inside a metal building filled with tanks, with no vineyard panorama. A single $20 tasting covers five current releases over 90 minutes, often with winemaker Christopher pouring and explaining the wines. Appointments run Thursday through Monday, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. It is a good fit for travelers who prefer access to the person making the wine over a landscaped terrace.