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“The Santa Maria Valley is an insider’s secret…”

                                                                                        -Wine writer Steve Heimoff

Sometimes it's the unbeaten path that leads to the best discoveries. Such is the case in the Santa Maria Valley , where fine wine, world-famous barbecue and open roads make for a uniquely memorable—and flavorful—wine country experience.

The Santa Maria Valley unfolds along the northern perimeter of Santa Barbara County on California ’s Central Coast . Here, the valley boasts a rare “transverse” geography, an east-west orientation that channels cool ocean air. The result is one of California ’s longest growing seasons, fostering an exquisite climate for Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah and many other varietals.

The perfect conclusion to an afternoon of wine tasting can be enjoyed at a number of local restaurants, several of which specialize in Santa Maria Style Barbecue, a 150-year-old regional culinary tradition founded on native ingredients and methods.

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