Rusack Vineyards

In Santa Barbara County's prestigious Ballard Canyon, Rusack Vineyards transforms 17 meticulously cultivated acres into some of California's most distinctive estate wines. This boutique operation stands apart through its commitment to small-production excellence and innovative terroir-driven winemaking that captures the essence of one of the Central Coast's most promising appellations.

Founded as a family passion project on 48 acres of rolling, oak-studded hillsides, Rusack Vineyards embodies the pioneering spirit of modern California winemaking. Under the guidance of winemaker Steve Gerbac, the estate has developed a reputation for crafting wines that speak authentically to their unique maritime-influenced microclimate. Gerbac's philosophy centers on minimal intervention techniques that allow the distinctive terroir to express itself through careful vineyard management and precise winemaking decisions that honor the land's natural characteristics.

Syrah dominates the estate plantings, producing the flagship wines that have established Rusack's reputation among collectors seeking authentic Central Coast expressions. The portfolio extends to carefully selected blocks of Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, each benefiting from the property's diverse soil composition and strategic hillside positioning. The vineyard layout follows natural contours to optimize drainage and sun exposure, creating ideal conditions for even ripening and concentrated flavor development. These ultra-premium wines reflect the warm days and cool nights that define Ballard Canyon's exceptional growing conditions, resulting in wines with remarkable depth and elegance.

The Rusack experience centers on intimate, personalized encounters with the estate's winemaking philosophy and distinctive terroir. The property's scenic location among rolling hills provides a stunning backdrop for private tastings and vineyard tours that reveal the meticulous attention to detail behind each vintage. Visitors discover the careful vineyard management practices that reduce erosion while enhancing soil health, contributing to the sustainable approach that defines the estate's long-term vision. The intimate scale ensures personalized attention and deep insights into the winemaking process.

For wine enthusiasts seeking authentic Central Coast expressions and collectors pursuing distinctive California terroir, Rusack Vineyards offers an exclusive window into Ballard Canyon's emerging excellence. Contact the estate directly to arrange private tastings and discover why discerning collectors are adding these limited-production wines to their cellars.