The Santa Ynez Valley wine region, located in Southern California’s Santa Barbara County, is home to over 100 wineries set among rolling hills. One of our favorite places to explore is the charming town of Los Olivos, where around 20 tasting rooms are conveniently located within walking distance of each other. With local restaurants, boutique shopping, and cozy places to stay nearby, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed day of wine tasting. You’ll also find several beautiful wineries scattered throughout the countryside, but we always appreciate the convenience of exploring Los Olivos on foot. Below are a few of our favorite Santa Ynez Valley wineries.
Saarloos and Sons
Saarloos and Sons is one of our top wineries in Los Olivos—and a must-visit on any wine-tasting trip to the Santa Ynez Valley. This family-run winery tells its story through each bottle, as every wine is dedicated to a family member and features a family photo on the label. Our favorite wines include the Barnburner Estate Syrah and the Family Tree GSM (Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre). Guests can enjoy their wine flights in a stylish modern tasting room or relax outdoors by the fire pits and water features. For a unique treat, try the signature flight of mini cupcakes paired with your tasting.
Larner Vineyard & Winery Tasting Room
Another favorite Los Olivos winery is Larner Vineyard & Winery. The small, cozy tasting room connects to a boutique shop offering souvenirs, candles, and even a few children’s activities—making it a welcoming stop for families. We especially enjoyed the Syrah 2021 and Elemental 2021. Guests can also unwind with a glass of wine on the outdoor patio overlooking the center of town and soak in the friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Kaena at The Ranch
Just outside Solvang, Kaena at The Ranch offers a scenic countryside escape for wine lovers. Formerly located in Los Olivos, this new space is family- and dog-friendly, with wide green lawns, lawn games like Connect Four, and frequent live music events. Be sure to check their website for the latest schedule. The spacious tasting room includes both indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a glass under the California sun. Our favorite wines were the 2021 Grenache Clone and 2020 Ronin. Guests can bring a picnic or purchase light snacks on-site while watching horses roam the nearby ranch. Free parking is available, and it’s just a five-minute drive from Solvang or about fifteen minutes from Los Olivos. Just down the road, you’ll also find Ostrichland USA—a quirky stop where visitors can feed ostriches and emus. It’s a popular attraction, so expect some traffic on busy days.
Final Thoughts
Whenever we have the chance, we love visiting the Santa Ynez Valley wine region. With so many wineries to explore, Los Olivos stands out for its walkability and small-town charm, while spots like Kaena at The Ranch offer a peaceful countryside escape. Whether you’re sipping Syrah in the heart of Los Olivos or relaxing under the sun in Solvang’s rolling hills, the Santa Ynez Valley truly captures the spirit of California wine country. For more recommendations on where to stay and eat in the Santa Ynez Valley, visit our website.