Zaca Mesa Winery
Zaca Mesa Winery offers stunning vineyard vistas, acclaimed Syrah wines, and a picturesque setting perfect for tastings and events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Poppies bloom, mild weather
Zaca Mesa Winery
Best Time
Poppies bloom, mild weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Zaca Mesa Winery offers stunning vineyard vistas, acclaimed Syrah wines, and a picturesque setting perfect for tastings and events.
"One of the best decisions we made for our wedding was getting married at Zaca Mesa Winery."
🚗 Scenic Drive Delight
Enjoy the drive on Foxen Canyon Road; it's a beautiful prelude to your visit.
🍷 Syrah is a Must-Try
Don't miss their highly-rated Syrah wines, a signature of Zaca Mesa.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vineyard Views
Throughout the winery grounds
Stunning rolling vineyards and oak trees create a picturesque backdrop for wine tasting and picnics.
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Syrah Wines
Tasting room
Renowned for their exceptional Syrah, Zaca Mesa offers a taste of Santa Barbara County's finest red wines.
Picnic & Tasting Experience
Outdoor seating areas
Enjoy a BYOB picnic with a curated wine tasting flight brought to your table.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Scenic Drive
Bookings & Special Events
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Drive Delight
Enjoy the drive on Foxen Canyon Road; it's a beautiful prelude to your visit.
🍷 Syrah is a Must-Try
Don't miss their highly-rated Syrah wines, a signature of Zaca Mesa.
🧺 BYOB Picnic Friendly
Bring your own picnic to enjoy with their wine tastings outdoors.
📅 Check for Events
Zaca Mesa hosts weddings and events; verify tasting availability.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Drive Delight
Enjoy the drive on Foxen Canyon Road; it's a beautiful prelude to your visit.
🍷 Syrah is a Must-Try
Don't miss their highly-rated Syrah wines, a signature of Zaca Mesa.
🧺 BYOB Picnic Friendly
Bring your own picnic to enjoy with their wine tastings outdoors.
📅 Check for Events
Zaca Mesa hosts weddings and events; verify tasting availability.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Enjoy the winery grounds with your well-behaved canine companions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Zaca Mesa Winery is highly praised for its picturesque vineyard setting, delicious Syrah wines, and accommodating staff, making it a dream wedding venue and a delightful spot for wine tasting and picnics. While most visitors have an exceptional experience, a few have noted inconsistent service and tasting experiences.
"WEDDING REVIEW. We had our dream wedding here and it was absolutely perfect for us! We are so happy we chose Zaca Mesa!! Big Thanks to Jake!"
Arly M
"One of the best decisions we made for our wedding was getting married at Zaca Mesa Winery. We instantly fell in love with how remote it is and how you truly feel like you are surrounded by nothing by nature. It’s set back from the street so we didn’t have to worry about cars zooming by like at other venues. Between the vineyards, the oak trees and spring/summer poppies, the setting is absolutely picturesque. Not only is the venue stunning but the staff, especially Tara Creighton are top notch. It was important for us to be able to connect with the staff and Tara did an amazing job of working with us and helping to manage the event on the day of. She truly went above and beyond and we are so very thankful for all her help. Zaca Mesa was very flexible and catered to our specific desires and vision. The site fee was very reasonable and it allowed us to spend money on other details like live music vs paying a fortune for just the venue. Another one of our favorites things about Zaca Mesa and arguably one of the biggest factors in our decision, is their wine. The wine is delicious and being able to choose between both Tread and Zaca Mesa wines allowed us to have the variety that we were looking for. Our overall experience with Zaca Mesa was incredible. We are grateful for the memories we made there and for all the incredible staff that helped to make our day perfect. If getting married in wine country is your dream, check out Zaca Mesa, it will not disappoint."
Angelina Sciarrino
"I love Syrah and they produce a GREAT Syrah! My wife loved the Chardonnay as well. Great winery and great staff. Thank you!"
James Bailey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Zaca Mesa Winery is located on Foxen Canyon Road, a scenic route known for its vineyards. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering beautiful views. It's recommended to use GPS, but be prepared for winding roads.
Public transport options are very limited in this rural wine country area. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange for a private driver or ride-sharing service.
Many visitors drive the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, stopping at various wineries like Zaca Mesa. Consider a designated driver or a wine tour service for a more relaxed experience.
Yes, Zaca Mesa is situated along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, surrounded by numerous other wineries. You can explore producers like Sandhi, Tensley, and Storm nearby.
The roads leading to Zaca Mesa are generally well-maintained but are rural and winding. Drive cautiously and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend visits, to ensure you can enjoy a tasting experience. Check their website for the most up-to-date information and booking options.
Opening hours can vary, but Zaca Mesa is typically open for tastings and visits during daytime hours. It's always best to confirm current hours on their official website before your visit.
Tasting fees can vary depending on the flight chosen. Some visitors have noted being charged for tastings after initial samples, so clarify pricing upfront.
Yes, Zaca Mesa is known for being a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) picnic-friendly winery. They offer outdoor seating where you can enjoy your own food with their wines.
Absolutely! Zaca Mesa is a very popular venue for weddings and private events, offering a picturesque vineyard setting.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire property offers stunning photo opportunities, from the rolling vineyards and oak trees to the picturesque event spaces. The scenic drive along Foxen Canyon Road also provides beautiful shots.
For professional photoshoots or wedding photography, it's essential to contact the winery in advance to discuss arrangements and any associated fees.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Springtime is also ideal with blooming poppies.
Zaca Mesa is frequently featured in wedding photography due to its romantic vineyard setting. It's also popular for landscape and lifestyle photography.
Yes, feel free to take photos of the wine bottles you are enjoying. Many visitors share their tasting experiences online.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Zaca Mesa Winery does not typically serve prepared food. They encourage visitors to bring their own picnics to enjoy on the grounds.
Think cheese boards, sandwiches, salads, and other portable items that pair well with wine. Keep it simple and enjoyable to eat outdoors.
Yes, the nearby towns of Los Olivos and Santa Ynez offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
For events like weddings, you will typically work with approved caterers. The winery provides the stunning venue.
Zaca Mesa is known for its Syrah, which pairs well with grilled meats, stews, and hearty dishes. Their Chardonnay complements seafood and poultry.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Bring a picnic with a variety of foods.
* Pack outdoor games or activities for kids.
* Ensure children are supervised, especially near vineyards or any water features.
* Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds.
🐶 Dog Lovers
Tips for visiting with dogs:
* Keep your dog on a leash at all times.
* Bring water and a bowl for your pet.
* Be mindful of other guests and ensure your dog is well-behaved.
* Take advantage of the outdoor seating for a relaxed experience with your pup.
💍 Wedding & Event Planners
+2Key considerations for events:
* Book well in advance, as Zaca Mesa is a popular venue.
* Coordinate with the winery regarding catering, decor, and any specific requirements.
* Leverage the picturesque surroundings for photography and guest enjoyment.
* The flexibility in site fees allows for creative budgeting for other event elements.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Zaca Mesa Wine Experience
One of the unique aspects of visiting Zaca Mesa is their BYOB picnic policy. This allows guests to curate their own culinary experience to perfectly complement their wine selection. Imagine a beautiful spring afternoon, surrounded by vineyards, enjoying a gourmet picnic with a glass of Zaca Mesa's finest. This combination of high-quality wine and a personalized dining experience makes for a memorable visit.
While the wine is a primary draw, the knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff significantly enhance the tasting experience. Visitors have noted how helpful and informative the staff can be, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the visit. However, it's worth noting that some reviews mention inconsistent service, so managing expectations and clarifying details with staff is always a good idea.
Zaca Mesa as a Wedding Venue
+2The winery's staff, particularly individuals like Tara Creighton, are frequently praised for their exceptional service and flexibility. They are noted for going above and beyond to help manage events and cater to the couple's specific vision. This personalized attention is crucial for couples planning their special day, making Zaca Mesa a favorite for many.
Beyond the stunning scenery and dedicated staff, the reasonable site fees at Zaca Mesa are a significant advantage. This allows couples to allocate more of their budget towards other important elements like live music or decor, rather than being solely consumed by venue costs. The ability to choose from both Tread and Zaca Mesa wines also provides desirable variety for wedding guests.
Sustainability and History
The winery also boasts a notable historical connection, having been recognized for serving President Ronald Reagan's preferred California wines at a White House state dinner. Founded in 1973, Zaca Mesa has a long-standing presence in Santa Barbara County's wine scene, contributing to the region's rich viticultural history.
This blend of modern sustainable practices and historical significance offers a deeper appreciation for the Zaca Mesa experience. It's a place where you can enjoy excellent wine while also connecting with the legacy and environmental stewardship of the region.
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