Driving west along peaceful Santa Rosa Road, be careful not to startle any horses that take up the road while being led from one pasture to another. In addition to being horse country, this idyllic valley is within the celebrated Santa Rita Hills Appellation, and is home to the beautiful hillside vineyards of the elegant and sophisticated Lafond Winery.

Owner Pierre Lafond has the distinction of starting Santa Barbara Winery in 1962, the first post-Prohibition winery in the county. In 1998 construction began on Lafond Winery, with son David Lafond as general contractor and Pierre Lafond as Architect. This very functional operation incorporates the tasting room as part of the winery, with large windows allowing views into the barrel room. Both the indoor and outdoor production areas are also visible, allowing a ringside view of the winemaking process.

The airy tasting room has a sampling bar at one end and handcrafted gift items, olive oils, cloth napkins, earthenware pots and specialty wine accessories scattered throughout. Two lovely picnic areas grace the property: one with a fountain, tables, and chairs; and the other looking out at a peaceful view of the valley and vineyards. The winery focuses on three wines: Pinot Noir, Syrah and Chardonnay.