3-Winery Tour Includes Tastings & Lunch from Santa Barbara

A Complete Guide to the Santa Ynez 3-Winery Tour with Tastings & Lunch

If you’ve ever wanted to taste your way through some of California’s best vineyards without the hassle of driving, this Santa Ynez-focused wine tour offers a well-rounded experience. Designed for wine lovers, curious travelers, or anyone craving a leisurely day amidst rolling vineyards, this tour combines expert guidance, delicious local wines, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a chance to explore some of Santa Barbara County’s most picturesque wineries, all with convenient transportation included.

What we love about this tour? First, it’s all about the experience: the variety of wineries visited, the quality of tastings, and the thoughtful inclusion of a picnic lunch. Second, the guides—who are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness—really elevate the day with their insights and personable approach.

A possible consideration? Group size is limited to 18, which is great for intimacy but might feel crowded during peak seasons. Also, the itinerary varies depending on the time of year, so each trip might feel just a little different, which could be a plus or a surprise.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a seamless, educational, and tasty introduction to Santa Ynez’s wine scene. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a fun day out, it offers a good balance of structured tasting and relaxed exploration.

Key Points

• Includes tastings at three carefully selected Santa Ynez wineries
• A delicious picnic lunch with multiple options
• Convenient pickup and drop-off from Santa Barbara hotels
• Guided by knowledgeable, friendly hosts
• Limited group size for a more personalized experience
• Varies depending on season, offering different winery options

What’s Included and What’s Not

This all-inclusive experience covers the wine tasting fees at three different Santa Ynez wineries, a picnic lunch with seven options, bottled water, and transportation aboard a deluxe touring vehicle. The tour is run by Grapeline Wine Tours, who manage the logistics, so you won’t need to worry about navigating or parking—just focus on enjoying the day.

Gratuities are not included, so if you feel your guide went above and beyond, a tip is appreciated but not obligatory. The tour requires travelers to be at least 21 years old, and service animals are welcome. It’s designed to be accessible for most, with near public transportation options for pickup points.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your Santa Barbara hotel or a neutral location, usually around mid-morning. From there, your driver/guide—often praised for their friendliness and knowledge—sets the tone for the day.

Stop 1: Santa Ynez Wine Trail — Rustic Charm and a Generous Tasting

Your first stop typically combines a piece of rustic vineyard charm with a chance to sample some fine wines. The selected winery might be Kaena at the Ranch, Andrew Murray Vineyards, Blackjack Ranch, Koehler Winery, or The Brander Vineyard. These stops boast beautiful vineyard views, making for perfect photo ops, especially if the weather cooperates.

Here, the tasting experience is paired with an artisan picnic lunch, which is thoughtfully designed to delight both your palate and your camera. Many reviews emphasize the quality of the lunch, with “great sandwiches” and “beautiful vineyard backdrops” making it more than just a meal—it’s a moment of enjoyment.

Stop 2: Santa Ynez Wine Trail — Heritage and Elegance

Next, the group moves on to a renowned winery, often with a long-standing reputation. Possible stops include Firestone Vineyard, Fess Parker Winery, Lincourt Vineyards, Foley Estate, Gainey Vineyard, Roblar Winery, or Foxen 7600. These locations offer tastings of world-class wines and showcase the craftsmanship and history behind the labels.

Expect to spend around 90 minutes here. This is your chance to taste more refined, possibly more complex wines, and learn about the region’s winemaking heritage from your guide. Several reviews mention the “wonderful knowledge” guides share, often surprising guests with their local insights.

Stop 3: Santa Ynez Wine Trail — Boutique and Rising Stars

Your last stop could be an intimate boutique vineyard or a well-known estate, depending on the season and availability. Possibilities include Vega Vineyard and Farm, Buttonwood Farm & Vineyards, Beckmen Vineyards, Kalyra Winery, Lafond Winery, Rideau Vineyard, or Vincent Vineyards. This final stop often provides a more relaxed, personal experience, rounding out the day on a high note.

Here, the focus may be on smaller, family-run wineries or newer establishments that are beginning to make a name for themselves. Many guests appreciate this variety, as it balances the more established vineyards with fresh, innovative producers.

The Value of the Experience

At $199 per person, this tour offers a lot of value—especially considering the inclusive tastings, a well-curated lunch, and transportation. When you factor in the convenience of being picked up and dropped off from your Santa Barbara hotel, it becomes even more appealing. It’s an all-in package that removes the stress of planning, driving, and navigating between stops.

Guests frequently comment on the quality of the guide, with reviews highlighting their friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer said, “Our driver Cary was very knowledgeable, friendly, and fun,” which underscores the importance of a personable host in making the experience memorable.

The tour’s flexibility and the changing seasonal itinerary mean you’re likely to see different wineries each time you go, keeping the experience fresh and interesting. And with a maximum of 18 travelers, it’s not a giant bus — it’s more like a small, friendly group where everyone can get closer to the guides and each other.

The Transportation and Group Size

Travel is aboard a deluxe touring vehicle, which means comfortable seats and air conditioning—important for California’s warm days or cooler mornings. The small group size (up to 18 guests) allows for a more intimate atmosphere, where guides can answer questions and share stories without feeling hurried.

Pickup is available from Santa Barbara accommodations, making the start of your day straightforward. The tour lasts about 6.5 hours—from pickup to drop-off—giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Authentic Guest Experiences

Guests consistently praise the guides, with reviews describing them as “knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “fun.” One reviewer noted, “Cary was a wonderful host/driver,” while another said, “Kris was an excellent guide and made the trip so much fun.” This personal touch and the ability to ask questions elevate the experience beyond just tasting wine.

The wineries themselves are often described as beautiful, with stunning vineyard views, which makes the trip not just about tasting but also about soaking in the scenery. Lunch is another highlight, with many guests raving about the quality and variety of the sandwiches.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a stress-free, all-inclusive introduction to Santa Ynez wine country. It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. If you’re curious about wine but don’t want to deal with driving or planning, this tour delivers convenience and education in one package.

It’s also excellent for those who enjoy a personal touch—thanks to the small group size and friendly guides. However, if you prefer a more adventurous, self-guided exploration, then this might not be the right fit.

Final Thoughts

This Santa Ynez 3-winery tour offers a well-balanced mix of wine tastings, scenic views, and engaging guides—all wrapped in a comfortable, hassle-free package. The inclusion of a picnic lunch and the convenience of hotel pickup make it an excellent value for a full day of tasting and learning.

Whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to sample a variety of wines at different estates, each with its unique character. Plus, the stories and insights shared by knowledgeable guides will deepen your appreciation for the region’s wines.

This tour is best suited for those who value comfort, convenience, and authentic local experiences. It’s a smart choice for travelers wanting a memorable day in California’s wine country without the stress of planning or navigating on their own.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes tastings at three Santa Ynez wineries, a picnic lunch with seven options, bottled water, and transportation on a deluxe vehicle.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, from pickup to drop-off.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age is 21 years old, so it’s only for adults.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Santa Barbara hotels are included, aboard a comfortable, small-group vehicle.

What wineries will I visit?
The specific wineries vary depending on the season, but they are all highly regarded options on the Santa Ynez Wine Trail.

Will I have time at each winery?
Yes, roughly 2 hours at the first stop and 1.5 hours at the second and third, allowing for tasting, exploring, and photos.

This Santa Ynez wine tour is a practical, enjoyable way to experience California’s wine country. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and excellent wines, it’s a day that promises memorable moments—so long as you’re ready to sip, learn, and relax.