Richie D.
Yelp
Rarely do you hear such high reviews and remarks for a business, and then your visit or experience in person is even better than expected! I suppose I'm use to being disappointed...but Stolpman NEVER disappoints!
Since those three trustworthy recommendations to go to Stolpman (plus stellar Yelp reviews), I have become a wine club member, visited their private property twice and have gone to their Stolpman tasting room (and So Fresh Garage) on countless occasions.
Here are a few adjectives that come to mind when thinking about Stolpman Vineyards:
FAMILY ORIENTED:
The Stolpman family not only cares for their land, but also their employees. I have met Tom and his son Pete who are extremely down to earth. With their workers in mind, they created a La Cuadrilla ("The Block") label and club where all the proceeds go back to those who take care of the vineyard in the form of benefits and a financial bonus. Rubén, the winemaker and grape whisperer, has his home on the property with his wife María. María manages the vineyard team and has her own wine label called "Para María" consisting of both a Mourvedre Rose and Red blend. Furthermore, they have become part of not only the vineyard business but also the Stolpman family with Rubén as the padrino/godfather for Pete's children.
FRIENDLY:
I always find their Los Olivos tasting room extremely welcoming and friendly. Although not the fanciest of options in Los Olivos, their ranch-looking home has a large outdoor porch and patio with tables. Every time I walk up to the gate, they welcome us with a smile. Even better, the vineyard performs conscious and dry farming (when possible) using native fermentation and minimal manipulation. A nod to Mother Nature! Oh, and did I mention they love dogs?! Be sure to check out @dogs_of_stolpman on Instagram.
VARIETY:
Unlike most wineries in the Santa Ynez Valley, Stolpman comes to mind when looking for a delicious Sangiovese--NOT the locally renowned Pinot Noir! They are also constantly expanding their varietals beyond the expectations. There is honestly something for everyone. Whether it is their crisp Uni Roussanne, or a complex GSM blend. For those who like cold, drinkable carbonic wines, they also offer the So Fresh Garage for a hip, affordable, pool-pounder option. Their tastings are included for all the club members too.
PRICE-POINT:
Their wines vary from crazy affordable yet local "table wines" (which is better quality yet similar price than what Trader joe's offers), to high-end Estate wines (Pilocene, Hair of the Bear, La Croce and Angeli). No matter what you have in your wallet, you will walk away with a stellar bottle of local wine.
A few tips for your visit:
- Make a reservation via Tock for their tasting room, particularly during the weekend.
- Their vineyard in Ballard Canyon is strictly by appointment only but absolutely stunning. Release wine taco parties are often held here. Don't miss out on seeing the Mother Vine or the graceful Oak Tree.
- Feel free to bring your dog along. After all, they're family.
- If you have a group that isn't knowledgeable about wine, this is a wonderful place to bring them as an introduction to wine tasting without being pretentious.
¡Salud!