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Santa Maria Valley This funnel shaped region is host to arguably the longest growing season in California (125 days) due to chill average temperatures around 64 °F. It is the regions first AVA, (established in 1981) and the first region that planted Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in Santa Barbara. Santa Maria contains Bien Nacido vineyard, a sought-after 900 acre vineyard for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Look for Chardonnays with flavors of lemon zest, nectarines and pears and a firm backbone of acidity–built to age. Pinot Noirs are highly aromatic (violets, roses, spices) with an undertone of savory meat and a powerful structure. Syrah also seems to be at home here as well, bringing meaty, tobacco, and spice notes in a more Northern Rhône style than a Californian one. Santa Ynez Valley This is by far the largest AVA in the region,…