Located on the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, Zaca Mesa Winery was the third winery established in Santa Barbara County. The vineyard was planted 1973-1978 and is most famous for the “Black Bear Block.” The oldest Syrah grape vines on California’s Central Coast. It’s difficult to talk about this label and not mention the influential winemakers that began their career at this establishment. In fact the list is so numerous that the industry has coined the term “Zaca University.” Previous alumni include Mike Brown of Kalyra Winery, Ken Brown of Ken Brown Wines, Adam Tolmach of The Ojai Vineyard and Jim Clendenen of Au Bon Climate. Despite this acclaim the general feeling of the location is laid back. The staff is friendly and we recommend this spot for beginners. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy one of the many outside spaces that include an oversize chess board and cornhole. Tours are available for $30 and must be made 48 hours in advance. Enjoy a tasting flight ($15) or reserve tasting ($25), waived with a two bottle purchase. Cheese boards are available for $15 and charcuterie boards for $19.