A Bright Moment for Groundstar Vineyard Grenache: Jancis Robinson Score & Story of Soil Review

Groundstar Vineyard’s Grenache from Story of Soil has earned an exceptional 17.5/20 score from Jancis Robinson, spotlighting the expressive terroir of our Sta. Rita Hills regenerative vineyard and the winemaking talent behind this celebrated wine.

More details — and a link to the full report — below.

Jancis Robinson with Story of Soil winemaker Jessica Gasca in Buellton, California.

Groundstar Vineyard Grenache Earns 17.5/20 from Jancis Robinson

We are thrilled to share that Story of Soil’s Grenache from Groundstar Vineyard has been awarded an outstanding 17.5/20 by Jancis Robinson — one of the highest-rated wines in her latest report on Santa Barbara County.

This recognition is a powerful testament to winemaker Jessica Gasca’s talent and the expressive potential of our site.

Story of Soil Groundstar Vineyard Grenache 2023 Jancis Robinson Review

Jancis Robinson Tasting Story of Soil Groundstar Vineyard Grenache at the winery in Buellton, CA

Jancis Robinson Reviews Story of Soil Groundstar Vineyard Grenache

In her review, Robinson writes:

“Transparent ruby. Smells like a serious wine with real structure and rose petals. Real freshness. Dry finish. Serious.”— Jancis Robinson, 17.5/20 

The complete Jancis Robinson report and tasting notes are available on JancisRobinson.com.

This exceptional score reflects not only Jessica’s thoughtful, terroir-driven approach, but also the evolution of Groundstar Vineyard as a benchmark for site-driven quality in the Sta. Rita Hills.

Groundstar Vineyard Grenache: A Bright Moment for Site-Driven Farming and a Focus on Stewardship

Planted in 2001 on Tierra sandy loam and Botella clay loam, Groundstar sits five miles west of Buellton, where strong ocean influence keeps the site cooler than many surrounding vineyards.

Today, we farm the estate with the same pioneering spirit that defined its history:

• Certified Organic (CCOF)

• Certified Sustainable (CSW)

• Practicing Biodynamic

• Currently progressing toward Regenerative Organic Certification (ROC)

  
  

Story of Soil’s 2023 Grenache reflects that foundation. The wine was crafted with:

• Native-yeast fermentation

• 25% whole cluster

• Gentle pumpovers only

• 20 months in neutral oak

• A commitment to transparency and purity that aligns beautifully with our farming philosophy

  
  

We are deeply honored to see our vineyard expressed with such clarity and intention.

Celebrating Our Santa Barbara County Community

One of the most meaningful aspects of Jancis Robinson’s report is the spotlight she placed on the people of this region — many of whom we are proud to call friends, neighbors, and collaborators. Her visit highlighted the thoughtful work of:

• Camins 2 Dreams – Mireia Taribó & Tara Gomez

• The Joy Fantastic - Amy Christine, MW, and Peter Hunken

• Âmevive – Alice Anderson

• A Tribute to Grace – Angela Osborne

• Folded Hills – Kim Busch with Angela Osborne leading winemaking

• Tyler / Mae Estate – Justin Willett

• Tatomer – Graham Tatomer

• Chanin - Gavin Chanin

Together, these growers and winemakers embody what makes Santa Barbara County so exceptional: a shared commitment to authenticity, experimentation, and stewardship of the land.

We feel privileged to be part of this community — one whose collective energy continues to elevate our region’s standing on the global stage.

With Gratitude

To Jessica Gasca: thank you for your support, vision, and your ability to allow Groundstar fruit to shine. To our neighbors and fellow growers: your craftsmanship inspires us daily.

And to Jancis Robinson: thank you for recognizing the depth, diversity, and integrity of Santa Barbara County wines — and for honoring the work happening in our vineyards. We hope you will come back and visit again soon.

This moment belongs not only to Groundstar and Story of Soil, but to the entire region we love.

Exploring Groundstar-Grown wines with our winemaking community — pictured here with Kurt Russell of GoGi Wines.

Explore Groundstar-Grown Wines

Meet our community of winemakers who bring Groundstar to life in the cellar, the glass, and at your table. → Discover Groundstar-Grown Wines