Found in a warehouse district south of Santa Barbara’s bustling downtown and a “nine iron shot” from the beach, Whitcraft Winery creates cult status wines in its humble non-picture postcard location. The tasting room is small but attractive with its tasting counter made from old wine boxes.

Chris Whitcraft is obsessed with producing the highest quality wines. His signature varietals are Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and the almost unknown Lagrein.
Chris entered the wine profession over 30 years ago, first as a retailer then as a journalist, wholesaler and ultimately a producer. Because of his long time wine industry credentials, he has been able to secure contracts with premium growers. This superior fruit is then made with great care into his fruit forward style wines.

All of the reds and most of the whites are never fined, filtered or pumped and the smallest amount possible of sulfur is used. No other chemicals, other than natural yeast and, if necessary, natural acids are used. Also available is a high end ($120) sparkling wine. Sadly he will no longer produce the Lagrein after the 2005 vintage.