Richie D.
Yelp
While there is a Rincon Mountain Winery tasting room located in downtown Carpinteria, I will be transparent in admitting that I have not been. However, I did receive a special invitation to an exclusive, members-only release party at Rincon Mountain Winery's property. The remote vineyard resides amongst the countless avocado and lemon orchards on top of Rincon Mountain. The property overlooks the coastal towns of Carpinteria and Santa Barbara, with unexpected summer heat similar to that of Ojai. I had the pleasure to meet the winemaker, Edward Darren, who studied Enology at Cal Poly and his in-laws. The parents-in-laws spoiled us by tossing homemade, deliciously fresh pizzas in a mobile stone pizza oven.
My group purchased several bottles that included their Dusty Vinyl (GSM) and Ranch Rules (40% Barbera, 40% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre), while tasting a few other wines offered. If you couldn't tell already by our selection, I like big red wines! All of the wines we enjoyed immensely with plenty of body, medium tannins and acidity, and gorgeous color. Not to mention, the property has the perfect angle to take in a winter sunset like nowhere else I've seen on the Central Coast. Everyone was extremely hospitable, knowledgeable and made it a pleasure to visit. What more could I ask for?! Fabulous wine, company, food, AND views!!
Pre-Covid Rincon Mountain Winery used to host local bands and other public events at their vineyard, however, these have since been suspended. For the time being, they offer small private group tours of their small production. Almost all of their wine is sourced from California's Paso Robles/Creston wine regions, however, they soon plan to offer estate wines *fingers crossed*. I truly believe they have found a 'needle in a haystack' with the perfect terrain and microclimate to grow and produce their own Bordeaux varietals.
After my visit to the vineyard, I can't wait to check out their tasting room in Carpinteria and take a few bottles home for my collection. Cheers!