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| As much as rocky coastlines and golden hillsides conjure up visions of California, the sight of sprawling vineyards bring to mind the state's unique landscape. It is no surprise that wine grapes have become Santa Barbara County's first-ranked agricultural crop, with 19,000 acres of vineyards spanning 50 miles of scenic countryside. Though area wineries produce numerous superb vintages, many experts and critics consider Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah to be among the best in the world. |  |
| There are many ways to savor Santa Maria Valley wines. A favorite way is to enjoy wine tasting on the beautiful Santa Maria Valley Wine Trail.
The Santa Maria Valley possesses the rare geographic feature of being an east-west running valley. This valley channels cool ocean air into the region, creating mild temperatures year-round. The area is also blessed with a growing season that is approximately four weeks longer than most other California wine growing regions. The unusually long growing season and cool summer temperatures combine for slow maturation and long "hangtime" of the grapes. In addition, the Santa Maria Valley has porous, extremely well drained soil which restricts vine vigor and forces the plant to focus its energy on fruit development. The result of all of these factors is more intensely flavored and well-balanced wines. |
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email: info@santamaria.com
Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitor & Convention Bureau
614 South Broadway
Santa Maria, CA 93454
800-331-3779
fax: 805-928-7559
Copyright © 2003 - 2007
[Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitor & Convention Bureau].
All rights reserved.
