Gainey Estate
Our story in the Santa Ynez Valley begins more than 60 years ago when our family acquired 1,800 acres of undeveloped land. Here, on what we call the Home Ranch, we ran cattle and horses while growing 600 acres of fruit, vegetables, flowers and hay. In 1984, after years of travel and appreciation of European wines, Dan Gainey’s Father saw a similar potential in Santa Barbara County as a world class growing region. With that insight, he developed 50 of Estate vineyards, planting Bordeaux varietals, Syrah and Riesling and the Gainey Estate Vineyards were born. In 1997, we acquired and developed the Evan’s Ranch Vineyard in the western Santa Ynez Valley,
with the planting of 54 acres of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah, several years ahead of what was to become the Sta. Rita Hills, one of the most exciting cold-climate growing regions in California. We further added to our Sta. Rita Hills’ holdings in 2009 with the planting of 44 acres of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir on the northwestern edge of the Sta. Rita Hills at Rancho Esperanza Vineyard. Our wines reflect over 60 years of farming and winemaking knowledge passed down by each
generation, with expertise that has been honed and developed over decades. We are proud to
consistently control the quality throughout the entire process from grape to glass. We make wines that respect each varietal’s character and are meant to be enjoyed at the table with food, family and friends. Because of the various terroirs we farm in both cold and cool climates, we produce a full spectrum
of wines highlighting the diverse range of what is possible in Santa Barbara County. We are great stewards of our land, respecting its heritage and this community, while farming sustainably and protecting the environment for the next generation. As our family’s legacy in Santa Barbara County continues with the fourth generation, we are motivated to always improve, never rest on our laurels, honor tradition while welcoming change, and create more lasting and memorable experiences.
On behalf of my wife Diane, we invite you to join us on our family’s journey in this very special wine region of California.
Cheers,
Dan Gainey
Philosophy
" Winemaking is first and foremost an artistic pursuit. A creative process sharped by intuition, sensitivity, and a deep connection to the vineyard. however, great art needs structure, and this where science plays a vital role. I use it not to control the wine, but to support & safeguard the beauty I'm trying to express. Crafting compelling wines requires versatility....the thoughtful, nuanced touch that Pinot Noir demands is entirely different from the structure & intention needed for Cabernet Sauvignon. Each varietal, vineyard, vintage call for a distinct approach, and that constant evolution is what keeps the work so meaningful" - Jeff Lebard
Biography
As Gainey's winemaker since 2007, Jeff Le Bard brings a consistency of vision, style and quality to our wines. Jeff is also an ardent student of his craft, always seeking new information in the pursuit of incremental innovation. He is particularly fascinated by the juxtaposition of art and science, and how both disciplines can be mastered to create wines of significance. "My goal is to find a place where beauty, elegance and nuance exist while retaining proper scientific boundaries to ensure that the art lives on inside the bottle."
In his spare time, Jeff enjoys mountain biking and grabbing a pint at the local brewery.
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