Martian Ranch and Vineyard

Why visit Martian Ranch and Vineyard in Santa Barbara County?

Nan Hageland claims to have named Martian Ranch and Vineyard by combining the names of her sons, Martin and Ian, but that does not stop the tongue-in-cheek decorations of this winery. Their mascot is a little alien that shows up on the corks, and you can find each vineyard marked by Area 51-style signs. They even give their wines astronomy-themed names, such as the citrusy Grenache Blanc ‘Mother Ship.’ The winery includes astronomy in their farming methods, as well. They use the holistic Biodynamics method of agriculture founded by Steiner. Hageland loves the challenge that this method brings, and she revels in the chance to teach others about her methods.

The tasting room does refrain from laying on the Martians, though. A polished wooden bar with polished wooden barstools give guests a welcoming place to hang out as they look into the barrel room and the inner workings of the winery. If you really want to get the best experience though, there is an out-of-this-world lake that guests can explore on the property. A pier juts out to allow swimming and just sticking your toes in the water. The baby hills, spotted with lichen-covered trees, make this a wonderful place to picnic. You can also see the syrah, tempranillo and Grenache varietals of grapes ripening in the sun, or follow the broad dirt path through the ranch. You might just have as much fun as Hageland does.

Martian offers an Albarino and a Tempranillo. These are both Spanish grapes varieties that are gaining in popularity. Make sure you give them a try, and pick up a bottle or two if you like them, when you are visiting the winery.

Always keep on the look out for the friendly martians when you visit the winery!

Address: 9110 Alisos Canyon Rd, Los Alamos, CA
Phone: (805) 344-1804
Tasting Room Hours: Wednesday through Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm.