Foxen Vineyard & Winery: A Visit to Santa Maria’s Iconic “Shack”

History

Foxen Vineyard & Winery traces its roots back to 1985 when it was founded by Bill Wathen and Dick Doré. The duo shared a vision of crafting wines that embodied the true character of the Santa Maria Valley’s terroir. They planted their first vines on the historic Rancho Tinaquaic property, a location rich in heritage with roots going back to 1837.

Foxen’s commitment to sustainable viticulture and minimal-intervention winemaking became the cornerstone of its philosophy. Over the decades, the winery expanded its portfolio to include cool-climate varietals such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah, while also preserving the legacy of Bordeaux blends. Today, Foxen operates two tasting rooms: the modern solar-powered facility and the iconic Shack, which remains a nostalgic nod to its humble beginnings.

Winemaker

At the heart of Foxen’s winemaking is David Whitehair, a Santa Ynez Valley native who joined the winery in 2007. With experience spanning from California to New Zealand, David brings a nuanced understanding of cool-climate viticulture to his craft. His journey began at Brander Winery before stints at Cloudy Bay in New Zealand and Chalk Hill in Sonoma.

David’s deep connection to Santa Barbara County drew him back to the region, where he worked closely with co-founder Bill Wathen as an assistant winemaker. In 2016, David was promoted to head winemaker, taking the reins of Foxen’s celebrated portfolio. For David, winemaking is a delicate balance of science and art, with each bottle telling a story of the soil and vines from which it was born. His dedication is apparent not only in the glass but also in his active lifestyle. When he’s not in the cellar, you might find him training for marathons or scaling mountains with his loyal dog, Zeke, by his side.

The Property

Located along the picturesque Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, Foxen Vineyard & Winery is an idyllic retreat for those looking to explore the region’s renowned cool-climate wines. The property is home to two distinct tasting rooms, each offering its own unique experience.

The Foxen 7200 Tasting Room, or “The Shack,” exudes rustic charm with its unassuming façade and relaxed atmosphere. This historic location is where the story of Foxen began, and it still serves as a favorite spot for visitors seeking a laid-back wine-tasting experience. The Shack’s surrounding vineyards offer sweeping views of rolling hills and provide a sense of tranquility that enhances the tasting journey.

For those seeking a more modern setting, the main tasting room features a sleek design and eco-friendly touches, including solar panels. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgic charm of The Shack or the contemporary vibe of the main facility, Foxen offers a setting that perfectly complements its wines.

Tasting Options

Foxen offers a variety of tasting experiences tailored to casual sippers and seasoned connoisseurs. Tastings range from a highly reasonable $20 to $30 and require reservations to ensure an intimate and personalized visit.

The Shack focuses on small-batch wines and limited-production offerings, with an emphasis on Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Rhône-style blends. The unpretentious setting allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the stories behind the wines, often shared by knowledgeable staff with a passion for Foxen’s history and mission.

Over at the main tasting room, the selection expands to include Bordeaux-style blends and white varietals, showcasing the breadth of Foxen’s portfolio. Whichever location you choose, you’ll encounter wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir and the dedication of its winemaking team.

Wine Clubs

Foxen’s Wine Club is highly regarded for its flexibility and member benefits, earning it a 5-star rating for its thoughtful offerings. Members can choose from various levels, allowing them to customize shipments based on their preferences. Club perks include exclusive access to limited-production wines, discounts on purchases, and invitations to special events.

Perhaps the most enticing benefit is the access to member-only releases, which often include experimental wines or unique expressions of Foxen’s classic varietals. Joining the wine club is a great way to stay connected to the winery and enjoy its creations year-round.

Conclusion

Foxen Vineyard & Winery is more than just a stop along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail—it’s a testament to the rich history and vibrant future of winemaking in the Santa Maria Valley. From the rustic charm of The Shack to the innovative spirit of its solar-powered tasting room, Foxen offers a diverse and memorable experience for wine lovers of all kinds.

With its commitment to sustainable practices, a talented winemaker in David Whitehair, and wines that speak to the soul of the land, Foxen continues to be a standout destination in Santa Barbara County. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime fan, Foxen welcomes you with open arms and a glass that tells a story.

For reservations and more information, visit their website at foxenvineyard.com or call 805-937-4251.