Soil, Sheep, and Shared Moments: Regenerative Grazing at Groundstar Vineyard — Stewarding Tomorrow, Celebrating Today

At Groundstar, our work is guided by a simple philosophy: Stewarding Tomorrow, Celebrating Today.

Sheep grazing in a vineyard at Groundstar as part of a regenerative, soil-enhancing grazing program.

Living, biologically active soil at Groundstar — the foundation of healthy vines and quality grapes.

A sunset toast at Groundstar — where meaningful moments unfold against vineyard and hillside views.

Sheep grazing at Groundstar Vineyard, supporting living soils through regenerative, soil-enhancing practices.

From how we care for our soils to how we welcome community onto the land, everything we do at Groundstar reflects a commitment to long-term vitality — ecological, agricultural, and human. One of the most visible and meaningful expressions of that commitment is a new partnership with an unlikely but essential collaborator: sheep.

As we work toward our goal of becoming Regenerative Organic Certified® (ROC), we are excited to share our newly implemented regenerative vineyard grazing program — now a cornerstone of how we build living soils, resilient vines, and a landscape that continues to thrive for generations.

"Soil-First" Regenerative Grazing, in Partnership

A Great Pyrenees livestock guardian puppy in training at Groundstar, learning to protect and care for the flock.

Our regenerative grazing program is made possible through a partnership with Cuyama Lamb, a local, mission-driven sheep grazing operation that shares our commitment to thoughtful land stewardship.

Rather than simply turning animals loose or using them for weed control, this is prescriptive grazing — a carefully planned, holistic approach designed to support soil health and ecosystem balance. Together, we coordinate location, timing, density, and movement so that the flock works in service of the vineyard’s ecology to create a healthier, more resilient, and thriving environment above and below ground.

As the sheep move through the rows, they help:

• Cycle nutrients back into the soil

• Stimulate microbial activity

• Build organic matter

• Improve soil structure

• Promote carbon sequestration

• Support long-term vine resilience

The flock consists of primarily Rambouillet and Targhee crosses, fine wool sheep that are all in the Merino family. Protecting them are their devoted Great Pyrenees livestock guardian dogs (including one very adorable puppy in training), who live and work alongside the sheep day and night, ensuring their safety and wellbeing.

Observing this community in motion — sheep, dogs, vines, plants, and soil — is a daily reminder that regenerative agriculture is built on relationships, patience, trust, respect, and love.

Sheep grazing beneath clear coastal skies in the Sta. Rita Hills, surrounded by the open landscape.

A young lamb exploring the vineyard — a joyful sign of life and renewal at Groundstar.

The diverse landscapes of Groundstar — where vineyards, grasslands, waterways, and oak woodlands.

And yes… they are all so incredibly cute! From tiny lambs discovering the vineyard to fluffy mamas grazing beneath coastal skies, they bring joy, personality, and a touch of wonder to everyday ranch life. Visitors and partners alike often find themselves lingering just a little longer, captivated by their sweet sounds and pastoral presence.

From the Ground Up: Regenerative Grazing Vineyard Soils to Grow Exceptional Fruit

Cover crops thriving between vineyard rows at Groundstar, supporting soil health and biodiversity.

Integrating livestock into our vineyard system is a core regenerative tool that supports a holistic approach to viticulture rooted in observation, responsiveness, and respect for natural cycles. By building healthy, biologically active soils, we strengthen vine resilience, improve water efficiency, and reduce disease pressure — creating balanced growing conditions that naturally regulate yields. The result is fruit of exceptional integrity: nutrient-dense, site-expressive grapes that form the foundation of flavorful, complex, and age-worthy wines that reflect the distinctive character of the Sta. Rita Hills.

Watching sheep graze beneath coastal skies, alongside native grasses and oak-studded hillsides, is a reminder that agriculture can be both productive and poetic. Their presence brings vitality and rhythm to the landscape, reflecting what we strive to cultivate here: a working vineyard that is alive, dynamic, and deeply rooted in place.

You can learn more about our regenerative viticulture practices on our website.

Stewarding Tomorrow, Celebrating Today

A long-table gathering at Groundstar — bringing friends and community together to celebrate on the land. Marc Alt Photo.

Our approach to farming reflects a broader way of thinking about this place — captured in our ethos: Stewarding Tomorrow, Celebrating Today.

From regenerative soil care to thoughtful grazing, every decision we make is rooted in long-term responsibility. And from intimate celebrations to creative collaborations, every gathering here is shaped by presence, intention, and a genuine love for the land and community that surrounds it.

The same ethos that nurtures the land also guides how we welcome people onto the landscape. As part of our mission to share regenerative farming in meaningful, human ways, we are delighted to open Groundstar as a private destination for gatherings that bring people together — to connect, to celebrate, and to create lasting memories.

Our 80-acre vineyard and ranch estate provides a setting for:

• Intimate weddings and celebrations

• Thoughtful corporate retreats

• Farm-to-table dinners

• Creative collaborations and film projects

• Educational and nonprofit gatherings

Each event is grounded in the character of the land itself — vine-lined horizons, open skies, wildflowers, oak groves, and a sense of natural beauty that cannot be manufactured.

We believe meaningful gatherings are an extension of our work in the vineyard: moments where people reconnect with landscape, food, agriculture, and one another — creating space for purpose, presence, and possibility to unfold.

Join Us

Whether you are curious about regenerative viticulture, exploring a meaningful venue for your next gathering, or simply drawn to landscapes that are alive with intention, we invite you to connect with us through our Gatherings page to explore what’s possible and inquire about availability.

We look forward to welcoming you — and celebrating life, connection, and the beauty of Groundstar together.

Golden hour among the vines — savoring connection, conversation, and the beauty of Groundstar.