Ancient Peaks Winery
Discover wines shaped by ancient sea bed soils, offering unique complexity and a taste of California's rich geological history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Ancient Peaks Winery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover wines shaped by ancient sea bed soils, offering unique complexity and a taste of California's rich geological history.
"The wine, the food, and the service will keep us coming back!"
🎯 Book Tastings in Advance
Secure your spot for wine tastings, especially on weekends.
🍽️ Come Hungry for Food
Their seasonal menu goes beyond cheese plates; it's a culinary experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Margarita Vineyard Tasting
Tasting Room
Experience wines shaped by ancient sea bed soils, offering unique complexity. A true taste of the region's geological history.
Estate-Grown Wines
Tasting Room
Savor exceptional wines from their sustainably farmed estate, known for its diverse and rich soil composition.
Seasonal Menu Pairings
Restaurant
Enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes that perfectly complement their award-winning wines. Come hungry!
Vineyard Views & History
Vineyard
Immerse yourself in the stunning landscape and learn about the rich history of the Santa Margarita Ranch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Experiences
Embrace the Relaxed Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tastings in Advance
Secure your spot for wine tastings, especially on weekends.
🍽️ Come Hungry for Food
Their seasonal menu goes beyond cheese plates; it's a culinary experience.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Service is relaxed; savor the experience, don't rush.
🚗 Easy Access from 101
Conveniently located just off Highway 101.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tastings in Advance
Secure your spot for wine tastings, especially on weekends.
🍽️ Come Hungry for Food
Their seasonal menu goes beyond cheese plates; it's a culinary experience.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Service is relaxed; savor the experience, don't rush.
🚗 Easy Access from 101
Conveniently located just off Highway 101.
⛰️ Explore Unique Soils
Learn about the ancient sea bed, volcanic, and granite soils.
✨ Special Events
Check for events like rosé launches or collaborations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ancient Peaks Winery for its exceptional wines, particularly the Cabernet Sauvignon and unique estate blends, and its delicious, well-paired seasonal food. The knowledgeable and warm service, especially from staff like Suzy and Kyle, significantly enhances the experience, making it feel personal and memorable. The winery's rich history and unique terroir, derived from ancient sea bed soils, are also frequently highlighted as fascinating aspects of the visit.
"We had such a wonderful time at Ancient Peaks! Suzy was our waitress and she made the whole experience unforgettable. She guided us through the wine tasting with so much knowledge and warmth, and even engaged with my daughter, which made it extra special. The food was absolutely amazing and paired perfectly with the wines. Highly recommend this place—we’ll definitely be coming back! 🤍"
Kathleen Prado
"We stopped here for a wine tasting before our zip line adventure across the street. We enjoyed the wine and food. The pace of service is relaxed so don't come if you are in a hurry. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the company of your party as you indulge with good food and wine. Definitely recommend having a tasting and the charcuterie board. Wonderful place to visit!"
Joseph Gambino
"Just got home from an exceptional experience at Ancient Peaks Winery. My wife and I had been there before and thoroughly enjoyed it, but today our server, Kyle, took us to the next level. His knowledge of the wine and the history of the vineyard and Santa Margarita Ranch made our tasting and lunch something that stood out from even our positive previous experiences. The wine, the food, and the service will keep us coming back! Thank you, Kyle, for making our time at Ancient Peaks something we will always remember!"
Dennis Eaton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ancient Peaks Winery is conveniently located just off Highway 101 in Santa Margarita, California. It's about 14 miles from the Pacific Ocean and a short drive from San Luis Obispo.
Yes, ample parking is typically available for visitors at the winery.
While public transport options are limited in the area, ride-sharing services or taxis can be arranged. Many visitors opt for a designated driver or a wine tour that includes transportation.
The most direct route is typically via Highway 101. The winery is situated on the Santa Margarita grade, offering scenic views as you approach.
Yes, the Santa Ynez Valley and Paso Robles wine regions offer numerous other wineries, charming towns like Los Olivos, and attractions like Cold Spring Tavern. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book wine tastings in advance, especially for weekend visits, to ensure availability.
Ancient Peaks Winery is typically open daily from 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current hours.
Yes, they offer various tasting experiences, often including estate tastings and guided tours that delve into the vineyard's history and unique soils.
While entry to the grounds and restaurant may be free, wine tastings and tours typically have associated fees. Check their website for current pricing.
Policies on pets can vary. It's best to contact the winery directly to inquire about their pet-friendly areas and any restrictions.
🍽️ 🍷 Wine & Dining
Their Cabernet Sauvignon, Renegade Red Blend, and wines from the Oyster Ridge collection are highly regarded. They also offer Zinfandel and Merlot. +3
Yes, you can enjoy wines by the glass or purchase bottles to take home. They also have a restaurant with food pairings.
Ancient Peaks offers a seasonal menu with dishes designed to complement their wines, often including charcuterie boards and other fresh options.
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon and Renegade Red Blend have received high praise. Vintages like the 2018 Zinfandel and 2014 Oyster Ridge are also notable. +1
Wines are available at a wide range of price points, catering to various budgets, from accessible options to premium selections.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Golden hour, especially during sunset, offers beautiful lighting over the vineyards. The fall foliage also provides stunning backdrops.
Beyond wine tasting, they offer vineyard tours, and sometimes collaborate on events like horseback riding and ziplining experiences.
The vineyard is situated on ancient sea bed, volcanic, and granite soils, which contribute to the unique complexity and flavors of their estate-grown wines.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for friends and groups looking for a scenic wine experience with good food and a relaxed atmosphere.
Visitors describe it as charming, welcoming, and having a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere, perfect for enjoying wine and company.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for opportunities that might engage younger visitors, such as exploring the grounds or enjoying a picnic-style meal. While there aren't specific children's activities, the scenic vineyard views and the historical context of the ranch can be interesting. Always confirm pet policies if you plan to bring a dog, as this can impact family visits.
💰 Budget Travelers
Purchasing wine by the glass or sharing a charcuterie board can be more economical than individual meals. Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to potentially find more value. The winery also offers wines at various price points, allowing you to find bottles that fit your budget for purchase.
🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
For an extended romantic escape, inquire about overnight stays in their cozy rentals.
This allows you to fully immerse yourselves in the wine country experience, enjoying leisurely evenings and mornings surrounded by the serene landscape. Visiting during the fall for the foliage or enjoying a sunset tasting can add an extra touch of romance.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Terroir of Ancient Peaks
These ancient fossilized oyster shells and mineral-rich earth contribute significantly to the complexity and characteristic flavors found in their estate-grown wines. This unique soil composition allows for sustainable farming practices that yield exceptional grapes. The winery focuses on varietals that thrive in these conditions, producing wines with depth and character. Visitors can learn about this fascinating geological heritage during vineyard tours, gaining a deeper appreciation for the wines they taste.
Key wines that showcase this terroir include their acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon, the complex Oyster Ridge blend, and their robust Zinfandel. Experiencing these wines at the winery allows you to connect the taste directly to the land from which it came.
+1Beyond the Wine: Experiences at Ancient Peaks
The winery also collaborates with local businesses for unique events. Past events have included 'Ride & Sip' packages combining horseback riding with wine tasting, and even opportunities for ziplining over the vineyards.
+1 These activities add an element of adventure and make a visit to Ancient Peaks a memorable outing, especially for groups or those seeking a more dynamic experience.Furthermore, the winery itself is steeped in history, having evolved from a simple tasting room to a full-fledged destination. The Santa Margarita Ranch's story, including its historical significance as a stagecoach stop, adds a layer of cultural richness to the visit.
Social
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