The practice of sustainability is nothing new at Buttonwood Farm Winery & Vineyard. It began in 1968 when owner Betty Williams purchased the beautiful property, named after the buttonwood tree, a sycamore native to Santa Barbara County. From the onset, Betty initiated many projects involving cultivation of the land, including Buttonwood’s vineyard, peach orchard, row crops, and tasting room gardens.

Through the years, Buttonwood has always practiced as many organic methods as possible to nurture and protect its vines from pests, predators, and disease. Since healthy soil yields healthy plants, a drip irrigation system is used, along with the planting of cover crops, and monitoring and adjustment of the soil’s nutrient content.

The payoff comes in the quality of flavor evident in the wines. Under Winemaker Karen Steinwachs’ skillful guidance, Buttonwood’s old-vine fruit is crafted into wines styled along traditional European lines.  Karen and her winemaking team create wines that speak of the soil of the Buttonwood Estate. Wines that are well structured and balanced. Wines that shine on the table with a meal.

Buttonwood’s warm, inviting tasting room is sunny and peaceful. Flower arrangements from the farm’s cutting garden surround visitors as they taste Buttonwood’s acclaimed Sauvignon Blanc and other Bordeaux varieties. Art from Betty’s daughter and Buttonwood label artist Seyburn Zorthian’s abstract designs grace the walls, and visitors are welcome to stroll the tasting room garden, developed by Betty to provide an oasis and serve as a respite to the senses.

The beauty of sustainability is that business and commerce need not be at odds with the environment. All connected with Buttonwood strive to blend environmental concerns with the business and fun of making and enjoying wine.

Tasting Room Open Daily 11–5.