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A Place Shaped by Wind, Fog & Light
Located in the heart of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA, Groundstar sits at the convergence of coastal influence and mountain form. Morning fog funnels through the transverse valley, creating what we often call “refrigerated sunshine”—a cool, steady climate that slows ripening, preserves natural acidity, and builds aromatic complexity.
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For visitors, this means expansive views, rolling grasslands, oak-dotted hillsides, and a serene environment defined by nature’s rhythms. For winemakers, it means fruit with purity, balance, and unmistakable Sta. Rita Hills character.
The Estate
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Total Property: 82 acres
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Elevation: 475–520 ft
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AVA: Sta. Rita Hills (Santa Barbara County)
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Topography: Gently rolling slopes, transverse range
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Ecosystems: Grasslands, oak woodland, riparian corridor​
Soils
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A mosaic of well-drained soils influences each block:
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Tierra loam & sandy loam — excellent drainage, encouraging deep roots
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Botella clay loam — moderate water retention, adds structure
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Variation of slopes and aspects — promoting low vigor, concentrated fruit
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The Vineyard
Groundstar currently has ~25 acres planted, with additional acreage planned.
Varieties & Clones
Pinot Noir
115, Pommard 4, 777, 667, 2a, 828
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​Syrah
Estrella, 383, 470
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​Grenache
Alban
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Viognier
1
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​Riesling
49​
Farming Overview
We farm organically, with biodynamic practices and a transition toward Regenerative Organic Certification. Full details live under:
→ Stewardship
→ Regenerative Viticulture
→ Practices
Certifications
CCOF Certified Organic | CSWA Certified Sustainable
ROC Regenerative Organic Certified® in progress
Practicing Biodynamic
Fruit Availability
We work with a select group of winemakers who share our commitment to quality and intention.
Vineyard History
1999–2013 – Original vineyard site established under Ampelos
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2001 - Blocks 1-4 planted (15 acres)
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2004 - Blocks 5-14 planted (10 acres)
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2013 - Riesling Block planted on own-roots
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2005–2023 – Vineyard expansion + certification milestones
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2006 - Conversion to organic and Biodynamic farming
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2008 – SIP (Sustainability in Practice) Certification
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2009 - Demeter Biodynamic Certification & CCOF Organic Certification
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2019 California Certified Sustainable Winegrowing (CCSW)
2024 – Groundstar Vineyard & Estate™ begins new stewardship era
2024-2025 – Organic recertification, biodynamic practices renewed, ROC Regenerative Organic Certified® application accepted
2026–2028 – Chardonnay plantings & additional acreage coming online
