
Paradise Springs Winery in Santa Barbara features a charming tasting room with award-winning wines, providing a perfect spot to enjoy locally crafted vintages.
Cruising up the 101 North, I took pleasure in watching the Pacific Ocean shimmer in beauty. The day had already been a satisfying blend of business and indulgence. A productive walkthrough at Malibu Wines & Beer Garden in preparation for an upcoming event, followed by a quick stop at Sports LTD to pick up a sleek new snowboarding helmet made me feel productive, satisfied and ready to enjoy myself. I was greatly looking forward to spending the evening in Santa Barbara with my friend Katharine, for a night of wine and delicious dining.
Katharine had initially suggested we walk from her place to the Funk Zone on State Street. Once I arrived, I realized that was a cute idea – if it had it been a beautiful summer evening in June. But with January’s chill in the air, I ordered us a shared ride instead.
Katharine had mentioned Paradise Springs Winery, a spot she had passed countless times but never actually visited. That, I decided, would need to change. Some places are simply meant to be experienced, and tonight, we would do just that.
After a lively and rather friendly ride, we were dropped off at Paradise Springs Winery. After walking up to Loquita to make sure we knew where dinner would be, we walked back to Paradise Springs Winery and took a seat next to the fireplace.
Looking around, I was impressed. When she had suggested that we do wine tasting at the Funk Zone – I had no idea that the area was so – modern and chic.


Eager to converse and enjoy our time before dinner, we both ordered a glass of Paradise Springs Winery’s 2022 PINK ASH ROSÉ (92 pts – 88% Grenache, 5% Syrah, 5% counoise, 1.5% Mourvèdre, 5% Cinsault).
As Katharine prefers sweeter wines, this was perfect. It was dry, flavor filled and perfect for sipping. I loved that it was not sparkling – and just a pleasant glass of wine to enjoy by an outdoor fire.
Relaxing and talking, the evening took on that effortless, unhurried rhythm that only great company and a perfect setting can provide. The lively yet refined atmosphere of Paradise Springs Winery felt like an ideal appetizer to our dinner at Loquita around the corner. Sipping the beautifully balanced rosé, we let the conversation flow, savoring our moments together as much as the wine.
It was a well balanced evening, with hints of sweet laughter and friendship.
Paradise Springs Winery
210 State StreetSanta Barbara, California 93101