Santa Barbara County in southern California, has been a hotbed of new plantings and producers over the last twenty-five years. Located near the Pacific Ocean about 100 miles north of Los Angeles, there are six AVAs in the county, from Santa Maria Valley at the north, to Santa Ynez Valley in the south. This results in a variety of micro-climates and terroirs, with several of the zones running east-west. These latter districts enjoy the benefits of ocean breezes sweeping across the vineyards, moderating the afternoon heat. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, two cool climate varieties, excel in this county, especially in zones such as Santa Maria Valley and Sta Rita Hills, while Riesling and Merlot have been successful in Santa Ynez Valley. (Wine/Appellations)