
Stolpman Vineyards
Santa Barbara
Address:
Stolpman Vineyards - Los Olivos Tasting Room, Alamo Pintado Avenue, Los Olivos, CA, USA
Website:
Winemaker:
Sashi Moorman and John Faulkner
First Vintage:
1994
Accepts Visitors:
Yes
PRESTIGE

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Summary
Stolpman Vineyards is a family-owned winery located in the heart of California's Central Coast, specifically in the Santa Ynez Valley. The vineyard, encompassing acres of rolling hills, is situated over a rare limestone substrate and microclimate which results in a unique terroir that is reflected in the character and profile of their wines.
Upon entering the vineyard, visitors are greeted by neatly organized rows of vines that stretch across the picturesque landscape, tended with meticulous care to ensure sustainable farming and the health of the environment. The trellises are filled with a diverse selection of grape varieties, but the vineyard has built its reputation primarily on exquisite Syrah, Sangiovese, and other Rhône varietals.
The Stolpman family is passionate about their commitment to natural wine-making techniques. They employ dry farming, meaning they do not irrigate their vines, which encourages the roots to dig deep into the earth to find water, thereby enhancing the mineral flavors in the grapes. The vines are cultivated using organic practices and the estate is known for its pioneering use of "own-rooted" vines, eschewing the common grafting onto rootstocks, which contributes to the individuality and depth of their wines.
The estate boasts a state-of-the-art winery where art meets science. Combining traditional methods like native yeast fermentations with modern technology, they manage to extract a pure expression of their unique terroir. The winery's cellar is home to a collection of French oak barrels, where wines are aged to perfection, allowing for complexity and nuance to develop.
Visitors to Stolpman Vineyards can enjoy an array of experiences, from tastings in their elegant tasting room that showcases panoramic views of the vine-covered hillsides to tours that give an in-depth look at the vineyard's sophisticated viticulture practices. The tasting room staff is knowledgeable and welcoming, eager to share the stories behind each bottle and the vineyard’s history.
The portfolio of Stolpman wines is diverse, with each bottle capturing the essence of the vineyard's exceptional location. The Syrah is a standout offering, often characterized by its rich, bold flavors coupled with a smooth, elegant structure. The Sangiovese is another jewel, presenting the drinker with a balance of bright acidity and juicy fruit notes typical of the varietal but with a distinct California twist.
Stolpman Vineyards is not just about the wines, but also about the experience and connection to the place. Their dedication to land stewardship and innovative wine-making reflects in each glass, offering a taste that is not just of wine, but of the land, climate, and hard work that goes into the production of each vintage.
Moreover, the winery often hosts events that pair their wines with gourmet meals, emphasizing their connection to the culinary world and providing an immersive sensory experience between the palate and the plate. For any luxury travel, food, and wine aficionado, Stolpman Vineyards epitomizes the blend of tradition and innovation, offering an authentic taste of California’s Central Coast.