If you’re exploring Santa Barbara’s Santa Ynez Valley’s Wine region and find your self near Buellton, I suggest you visit Alma Rosa Winery’s Tasting Room.  Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards was founded in 2005 by Sta. Rita Hills winegrowers Thekla and Richard Sanford.

The name originates as a tribute to the place and the people behind the wines; alma means soul and rosa refers to the California Ranch Santa Rosa land grant, where their Rancho El Jabalí Vineyard is located.  Alma Rosa Wines are meant to represent the soul of the place.

The cool loft like vibe of the tasting room.

The private room in the back where I’ve enjoyed tastings both during my most recent visit and during my first visit last Spring with Winemaker Nick de Luca (who is also incredible.)  We also learned during our tasting with Richard and Thekla that the cool fireplace mantle (shown above) and other vintage looking details were hand picked by the duo in New York at an antique store.  I loved the interesting history these little touches added to an already gorgeous tasting room.

Founders, and husband and wife team, Thekla and Richard Sanford.  They are truly a dynamic couple who were such gracious and engaging hosts. It was a treat getting to share their wine with them.

The incredible Blanc do Blancs Sparkling Wine we enjoyed during our visit.

What’s a wine tasting without a little pizza. Jeff Olsson, Alma Rosa’s neighbor, Chef, and Owner of Industrial Eats (another must try spot in Buellton) swung by to deliver pizzas during our tasting.  And boy were those pizzas delicious.

Me and Richard Sanford. What an honor meeting and spending some time with him. He was literally one of the founding fathers of this region and it was such a surprise putting a face and lovely personality to the name I’ve heard so much about over the years.

The line up of Alma Rosa Wines I tasted with Winemaker Nick de Luca during my initial visit to Alma Rosa Winery. Their wines are right up my alley with incredibly flavorful grapes. Each wine reflects the terroir, the distinct personality of the vineyard, and the gentle touch of an amazing winemaking team.

Me and amazing blogger Elise of What The Fab. Check out some of her coverage of our amazing Blogger & Media weekend in Santa Barbara here on What The Fab. This gorgeous shot was taken by her husband, Omied, of Arvin Studios.

Thanks to the Alma Rosa team and Thekla and Richard for the incredible visit hosting me and the other bloggers and media. This is an evening I will treasure and remember as a highlight of my Santa Barbara Wine Country visits.