Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Award-Winning Santa Barbara County Wines
Founded in 1962 by Pierre Lafond, Lafond Winery & Vineyards holds the distinction of being Santa Barbara County's first post-prohibition commercial winery. What began as a vision to craft French-inspired wines has evolved into a multi-award-winning enterprise recognized nationally for its Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and Syrahs. Our family-owned operation continues to prioritize quality and innovation while maintaining deep roots in the Santa Barbara wine community. With vineyards in the Sta. Rita Hills, we combine generations of expertise with sustainable practices certified by the Sustainability In Practice (SIP) program.Our commitment to environmental stewardship aligns with our mission to produce exceptional wines that reflect California's terroir. The tasting room in Buellton welcomes visitors Thursday through Sunday, offering curated experiences that showcase our legacy and craftsmanship. As part of a broader family of Santa Barbara County businesses, we remain dedicated to advancing industry best practices while preserving the personal touch that defines our brand. Our team's decades of collective experience ensure that every bottle embodies both tradition and progress.
Services
Wine Production
Wine Tasting
Private Events
Wine Club
Vineyard Tours
Details
- Year established: 1962
Highlights and features
- Family-owned operation with nearly 60 years of Santa Barbara County viticulture history
- Award-winning portfolio recognized nationally for Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and Syrahs
- SIP-certified sustainable vineyard management practices since 2016
- Private event bookings available in scenic Sta. Rita Hills location
- Founding member of Santa Barbara's modern wine industry
Associations and certifications
- Sustainability In Practice (SIP)
Services
Wine Production
Crafting premium wines since 1962, our portfolio features nationally recognized Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and Syrahs. We combine traditional techniques with modern innovation to create wines that reflect Santa Barbara County's unique terroir. Our decades of experience ensure exceptional quality in every bottle.
Wine Tasting
Experience our award-winning wines through curated tastings in Buellton, CA. Visitors explore our portfolio Thursday-Sunday 11am-4pm. Reservations welcome but not required for individual guests. Private group experiences available by appointment with personalized arrangements.
Private Events
Host exclusive gatherings at our Sta. Rita Hills vineyard location. From intimate celebrations to corporate functions, our setting combines natural beauty with wine expertise. Custom packages available seven days a week with advance booking through our event coordination team.
Wine Club
Join our wine club for exclusive releases, member pricing, and priority access to limited vintages. Benefits include complimentary tastings, special event invitations, and curated shipments delivered directly to your door within shipping-eligible states.
Vineyard Tours
Explore our Sta. Rita Hills vineyards through guided tours explaining sustainable farming practices. Learn about our SIP-certified methods while walking among the vines. Available as part of private events or special group arrangements with advance reservations.
Questions
What are your regular tasting room hours?
Our tasting room is open Thursday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Individual visitors don't require reservations, but private groups should call ahead.
Can I book a private event at the vineyard?
Yes, we host private events seven days a week. Contact our event team at (805) 688-7921 to discuss availability, capacity options, and custom packages for your celebration.
Are your wines sustainably produced?
Our vineyards hold SIP (Sustainability In Practice) certification since 2016. We implement environmentally responsible farming methods while maintaining wine quality through third-party verified practices.
What wine varieties do you specialize in?
We specialize in Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah varietals, with national recognition for these wines. Limited quantities of other small-lot wines may be available seasonally through our tasting room.
Is there a wine club available?
Yes, our wine club offers exclusive releases, member pricing, and special benefits. Members receive curated shipments, event invitations, and tasting room perks with flexible delivery options.
Reviews (4)
Cindy Goyen
Jan 31, 2022
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Great winery and great knowledgable staff. The scenery is pastoral; with cows grazing on the green hills. If you live in the city, you'll appreciate the rustic country side from this Buellton vineyard. Did I mention there is picnic tables to sip your wine and take in the scenery.
Catherine H.
Nov 28, 2021
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Impromptu visit to this winery. We purchased a bottle of Syrah and had a picnic outside. There were several picnic tables. We enjoyed the wine and the beautiful scenery. Lucked out with warm weather. Highly recommend.
Martha W.
Oct 08, 2021
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We've been here numerous times and always ove the wine! This time we bought some Santa Rita Hills Chardonnay and has the most fun talking to Sandra Lafond. What a sweet person! Turned out I had taken a photo of her cat Louise a few years back when she posed next to a pumpkin. She was so grateful when I shared it with her. This time I got a great photo of Thelma on the counter by a menu! They have awesome wines and the grounds are spectacular! I love their Autumn decorations as well!
Christopher S.
Apr 05, 2021
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This is your starting point. As far as I am concerned, Lafond is the "Due North". I visited on my last day. Aside from being gracious hosts, I lucked out because I got a sample of their Rose AND the Riesling the day I visited. (This is one of the most diverse tasting lists of all the vineyards) They have a demonstrated appreciation for other vineyards and will make some suggestions if you ask. Established in the 70s, they have been here because they make great wines. I left with 2 bottles of Syrah and a clone 667 Pinot Noir. I really WISH I started at this location because they are so
