Foxen Vineyard & Winery: A Taste of History on the Santa Barbara Coast
- A historic winery on the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail.
- Known for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
- Housed in a rustic, solar-powered former blacksmith shop.
- Offers a relaxed and authentic tasting experience.
- A perfect stop on the Santa Barbara Coast drive pack.
- Two tasting rooms: "The Shack" for Burgundy, RhĂ´ne and Loire varieties, and the FOXEN tasting room for Bordeaux and Italian varieties.
- Founded in 1985 by Bill Wathen and Dick Doré.
- Named in memory of William Benjamin Foxen, an English sea captain and early Santa Barbara pioneer.
A Taste of History on the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail
The sun-drenched hills of the Santa Ynez Valley roll by, a panorama of golden grasses and ancient oaks. The road, a ribbon of asphalt winding through this idyllic landscape, is a driver’s dream. Each curve reveals a new vista, each straightaway invites a little more throttle. This is the heart of the Santa Barbara Coast drive, a journey not just through stunning scenery, but through the very soul of California’s wine country. And nestled along the famed Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, a destination awaits that is as rich in history as it is in the flavors of its celebrated wines: Foxen Vineyard & Winery.
The Driver's Arrival
After a spirited drive, turning off Foxen Canyon Road and onto the gravel drive of Foxen Vineyard is like stepping back in time. The destination is not a grand, imposing chateau, but a rustic, unassuming building known as “The Shack.” This converted blacksmith shop, with its weathered wood and tin roof, exudes an authentic, old-California charm that is immediately captivating. Parking is ample and easy, a welcome practical detail for the road-weary traveler. The air is still, the only sounds the crunch of gravel underfoot and the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. There’s a sense of peace here, a feeling of having discovered a hidden gem, far from the polished and pretentious.
A Tale of Two Tastings
Foxen offers not one, but two distinct tasting experiences, each with its own character. “The Shack,” the original heart of the winery, is where you’ll find their Burgundy, Rhône, and Loire varietals. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, the focus squarely on the wine. It’s a place to linger, to chat with the knowledgeable staff, and to savor the nuances of their acclaimed Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Just a short stroll away is the newer FOXEN tasting room, a modern, solar-powered facility where the Bordeaux and Italian varieties are showcased. The contrast between the two spaces is a testament to the winery’s journey, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a standard-bearer for Santa Barbara wine.
The Wines: A Legacy in a Glass
Foxen’s reputation is built on the quality of its wines, and a tasting here is a masterclass in the potential of the Santa Ynez Valley. The Pinot Noirs are the stars of the show, elegant and expressive, with a complexity that speaks to the unique terroir of the region. The Chardonnays are equally impressive, balanced and vibrant, with a refreshing minerality. But the exploration doesn’t end there. The Italian varietals, like the Nebbiolo and Sangiovese, are a delightful surprise, a nod to the experimental spirit of the winemakers. And the Bordeaux-style blends are rich and structured, a perfect expression of the California sun.
The Legacy of Captain Foxen
The winery is named in honor of William Benjamin Foxen, an English sea captain who was an early pioneer of Santa Barbara County. His story is a fascinating one, a tale of adventure and perseverance that is woven into the fabric of the region. The winemakers, Bill Wathen and Dick Doré, are his descendants, and their commitment to quality and authenticity is a tribute to his legacy. This connection to the past gives the winery a depth and a soul that is palpable, a sense of place that is as important as the wine in the glass.
Practicalities for the Driver
Foxen Vineyard & Winery is open daily for tastings, and reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. The tasting fee is reasonable, and the experience is well worth it. The dress code is casual, as befits the rustic setting. While there is no restaurant on-site, the grounds are a beautiful spot for a picnic, so consider picking up some local cheese and charcuterie to enjoy with a bottle of your favorite Foxen wine.
The Verdict
For the driver exploring the Santa Barbara Coast, a stop at Foxen Vineyard & Winery is more than just a wine tasting; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to connect with the history of the region, to savor the flavors of its unique terroir, and to enjoy a moment of peace and tranquility in a beautiful setting. The wines are exceptional, the atmosphere is welcoming, and the story is captivating. It is, in short, a destination that perfectly embodies the spirit of The Stable: a celebration of the journey, and the memorable stops along the way.
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