Cordon of Santa Barbara offers a focused exploration of Santa Barbara County terroir from its tasting room in downtown Solvang. Founded by Etienne Terlinden, the winery emphasizes site-specific expressions of Rhône and Burgundian varieties. The portfolio highlights balanced winemaking and technical precision, delivering wines that reflect the diverse microclimates of the region.
History of the Winery
Etienne Terlinden established Cordon of Santa Barbara with a background rooted in both European tradition and California technical experience. Terlinden, who also serves as a commercial diver, applies a disciplined approach to his winemaking process. The name Cordon refers to the permanent wood of the grapevine, a nod to the foundational elements of viticulture. Since its inception, the winery has maintained a small-lot production model, allowing for a concentrated focus on specific vineyard blocks across the Santa Ynez Valley and its surrounding AVAs.
Winemaker
Etienne C. Terlinden leads the winemaking team. His background includes time spent as a U.S. Navy SEAL, a discipline he translates into a meticulous approach to vinification. Terlinden emphasizes minimal intervention to allow vineyard characteristics to emerge, focusing on balance and structure. His style leans toward restraint, aiming for wines that pair well with food rather than relying on high alcohol or excessive oak extraction.
The Property
The tasting room is located in the heart of Solvang rather than on a vineyard estate. While it lacks vineyard views, the space offers a charming
courtyard environment typical of the town’s Danish-inspired architecture. Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, providing a quiet respite from the busy streets. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, suitable for walk-ins or planned visits.
Wine Club
The Cordon Wine Club provides members with regular shipments of limited-production bottlings. Members receive tiered discounts on all wine purchases and complimentary tastings at the Solvang location. The club often includes access to small-batch releases and library wines that are not always available to the general public. It serves as the primary distribution channel for the winery’s most sought-after Rhône blends and single-vineyard Pinot Noirs.
Tasting Options
Visitors can choose from a flight of current releases, typically priced around $28 per person. This fee is waived with the purchase of two bottles. The tasting list changes seasonally, featuring a mix of white and red varietals. Reservations are not strictly required but are recommended for weekends or larger groups to ensure seating availability.
Tasting Notes
2021 Cuvée Rouge 246 This red blend presents aromas of dried cherry, cranberry, and a hint of dusty earth. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with flavors of red plum and subtle baking spice. The tannins are fine-grained, leading to a clean, persistent finish. It shows good integration of fruit and savory elements. 93 Points
2022 “Les Jumeaux” Pinot Noir Sourced from the Sta. Rita Hills, this Pinot Noir displays characteristic notes of raspberry, bing cherry, and forest floor. The acidity is bright and lifted, providing a fresh counterpoint to the ripe red fruit. Herbal undertones of dried thyme appear on the mid-palate, supported by polished tannins. 92 Points
2023 Frémont’s Camp Alisos Canyon Petite Sirah A structured offering from Alisos Canyon, this wine opens with deep scents of blackberry, blueberry, and graphite. The mouthfeel is dense and compact, revealing layers of black fruit, cocoa, and black pepper. Firm grip marks the finish, suggesting it will benefit from short-term cellaring. 91 Points…