Dragonette Cellars

Dragonette Cellars is a boutique winery nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara County, an area celebrated for its diverse microclimates and rich winemaking tradition. This winery is the brainchild of brothers John and Steve Dragonette, alongside their close friend and fellow wine enthusiast, Brandon Sparks-Gillis. Their shared passion for crafting exceptional wines led to the founding of Dragonette Cellars in 2005.

Located in the charming town of Los Olivos, Dragonette Cellars is part of the vibrant wine scene of the Santa Ynez Valley, a sub-region acclaimed for its ideal conditions that cater to a variety of grapes. The winery has made a name for itself through its dedication to sustainable farming practices and minimal intervention philosophy in winemaking, allowing the true character of the fruit to shine in each bottle.

Dragonette Cellars takes pride in its meticulously cared-for vineyards, which are situated in some of the most coveted locations within Santa Barbara County, such as the Sta. Rita Hills, Ballard Canyon, and Happy Canyon appellations. These areas are renowned for their unique soils and maritime influences, which contribute to the complex flavor profiles in the wines. The winery has a particular focus on Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc, but also produces a limited amount of Syrah and Grenache, showcasing the versatility of the region's terroir.

Upon visiting the winery, guests are greeted by an intimate and welcoming tasting room where they can experience the Dragonette Cellars' portfolio. The ambiance reflects the winery's philosophy: elegant, understated, and designed to focus attention on the wines themselves. The tasting experiences are educational and personalized, allowing visitors to delve into the nuances of each vintage and understand the impact of vineyard location on the wine in their glass.

The winemaking process at Dragonette Cellars is thoughtful and precise, with close attention to detail. Grapes are handpicked at optimal ripeness to preserve their inherent qualities. In the cellar, the use of native yeasts for fermentation and the careful aging of wines in a mixture of oak barrels aid in developing depth and complexity without overwhelming the wine's natural character.

Dragonette Cellars' wines have received accolades for their balance, elegance, and expression of place. The winery's limited production ensures that each wine is a careful curation of the best that their vineyards can offer. With each vintage, wine enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the release of these small-batch treasures that embody the meticulous care and passion infused from vine to bottle.

For those seeking to indulge in the full Dragonette Cellars experience, the winery often hosts events and wine club memberships offering exclusive access to limited releases, special tastings, and member-only gatherings. The winery's commitment to excellence and community has not only earned them a dedicated following but has also positioned them as a jewel in the crown of Santa Barbara's wine region.