Wonderful vineyard! We stopped by here during our Solvang trip. It was my first time doing a wine tasting so I specifically wanted a place that does wine flights. I liked the diversity of options because you could pick one of their flights or pick and choose wines to create your own flight. We came on a Monday morning right when they opened and sat outside. There were only two other parties so it was very calm outside. There was plenty of shade in their seating area so no need to worry about the heat. Since we made a reservation they gave us a nice paper that stated our party's name and a little congratulatory message since we were celebrating an occasion which was a sweet touch. For the fixed flights, they are 2 oz of wine each which isn't a whole lot, it's meant to be split between two people. I recommend bringing in your own snacks which is what we did because you will feel snackish drinking the wines! The server was kind and offered a lot of information about each wine that was served and was generally attentive to us. Overall, a good experience! read more

One of the most beautiful wineries in Solvang. The views here are breathtaking. The grounds well taken care of. The tasting room has style and the patio seating is one of a kind. The service is welcoming and friendly. Had a wonderful time with my husband enjoying wine and cheese and the views. Our hostess was kind and helpful so was everyone else we had contact with. The wine is delicious. It's by appointment only... read more

[Drinks] - Wine flight: I liked that we were able to pick any wines we wanted for our flight as at previous wineries, there'd be set flights already. We got a mix of red, white, and dessert wine to try. Our favorite one was the Rusack Sauvignon Blanc one that they're promoting. Not overly sweet but still provided a depth of flavor - Snack box: Includes meats, cheese, dried fruits, and crackers. When making reservations you can also choose to pre-order a snack box which we did and it was highly sought after by all of us as it paired well with the wine. Either that or we were feeling a bit hungry lol [Service] - Fast, attentive, friendly, helpful [Ambiance] - We sat outside since the weather was really nice with all the plants and decor around [Overall] - My bf's mom got a membership so it seems like at the very least they will be back lol! read more

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Extremely stuck up attitude. No one is even there to open the door because the owners are always away. No longer prioritizing customer service or the local community. read more

(I will try to not be so biased since I am a new member of this winery now) The lady and I decided to take a day trip to Santa Barbara to escape our busy Los Angeles lives. Part of that is spending time within the city of Santa Barbara, but also driving up to Santa Ynez to do a wine tasting. We have done this a couple times before and have been to some good wineries, but nothing to give me enough to want to become a member (until Rusack). Beginning with the ambiance, Rusack resides within the Ballard Canyon which overlooks the lush, green hills of pure nature with no other winery or home in view. Even better, Rusack has a canyon terrace deck with hundred year old oaks growing through the deck leading to a picturesque view. In regards to the wines, we decided to to two flights of a wine tasting which includes eight, 2oz pours. The cost of the tasting depends on the wines chosen for each of the canisters that are chosen. We also decided to do a charcuterie with the wines for additional fees which was a nice touch. We loved a majority of the wines we tasted, which fared from Pinot, to Chardonnay, to Zinfandel, to Cabernet, to Rosé. In regards to the service, we have had better. Yes, it was a Saturday. Yes, it was busy. However, we had a lot of waiting around which was luckily complimented by extra tastings. However, I had to initiate the desire to become a member after my very pleasant experience which I feel like I should not have had to do. Nevertheless, we were very observant of the other servers and how well they were doing which was enough for me to become a member. Thus, I recommend a tasting at Rusack Vineyards! read more

Rusack Vineyards - Wineries Near Me - Solvang, California

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Came here with the hubby before we ended our weekend in Solvang for my birthday. Place is gated and very beautiful. Plenty of outdoor seating with shade. We were greeted by a young lady who immediately handed us a glass of white wine and took us to our seats. It wasn't crowded and was very relaxing. We got a flight of wine & has ordered a cheese plate in advance to be able to enjoy it with the wine. Cute and elegant place to visit if you are in the area.. read more

This was my hubby's find on our last trip down to the central coast; he insisted on taking our friends for wine tasting. What a wide assortment of wines & good; take your time tasting, get a charcuterie board & crackers, so you can cleanse your palate in between tastings; you just might find something you'll enjoy & have to take home. Our server, Ann, was the best, filled us in on the wines, where the grapes are grown & allowed us to devise our tastings. There's plenty of outdoor seating, just lovely to sit back, take in the area & view, while enjoying a glass of yummy wine. Hubby loved it so much, he's a member, so we'll definitely be back. read more

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Being our 3rd stop from planned wine tasting spree-HH boys...expectations were a little low as i was thinking of maybe a little palate fatigued from tastings we did prior-(Alma Rosa and Casa Cassara)and yet again I thought otherwise...Rusack Vineyard were recommended for a reason indeed...from the rustic drive going there...to their welcome pour of sauvignon blanc as we were seated and from their varietals that we tried-delicate pinot noir and their round and bold syrahs!Our Lady host which i missed getting the name was also nice and accommodating... Our view from canyon deck overlooks the estate vineyards, with the rolling oak-studded hills providing a picture-perfect backdrop Truly an amazing experience! We are already planning to go back with our significant others and hopefully soon! read more

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The wine was great here. Ambiance was super beautiful too. Pam who answered the phone was super rude and hung up on us when we called the number by the gate and asked if someone was to open the gate since it was confusing to us how to enter. Sienna was our server (luckily not Pam) and was attentive in the beginning but then we didn't see from the time she gave us the tastings to the time we had to pay and we took a while. We literally had to go and search for her to pay. I'd highly recommend if you are looking for great wine and ambiance without the need for an attentive server. read more

Rusack Vineyards - Wineries Near Me - Solvang, California

Beautiful surroundings. Delish reds. Decent service. Mrs Rusack is daughter of Mr Wrigley, as in chewing gum, Catalina, Wrigley field. Not sure how it pairs with wine, but it worked out well for her. read more

Quaint little winery off the beaten path. A very short drive from solvang! Reservations: not necessary if you're a group under 6 people. We were a group of 2 and were able to just walk right in. Parking: there's a free lot w ample spots. Dogs: it's a dog friendLy place. No dogs allowed where you go inside to grab your wines, but dogs are allowed on the porch area and the grass so long as they are leashed. Wines: we thought the whites were preTty good. Surprisingly for us, the chardonnay was our favorite from the lot! Picnic: a lot of people brought their own food to eat. We brought fruit and chocolate to snack on w our wines. Ambiance: it's a very Homey backyard feel. You're just chilling on chairs and tables near other guests and looking out into the vineyards. It's quite lovely and a very chill atmosphere. Price: $18 a person to taste 5 different wines. read more

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Visited this vineyard before we left Solvang. They take reservations only. We called prior to coming to make a last minute reservation. Since it was a slow Sunday, we were able to come within 30 minutes. You're given a complimentary wine glass upon arrival. I'm absolutely in love with their patio seating area facing the vineyard. It's so calm and relaxing! We got a flight of wine ($30) and a red white glass. Prices were affordable and the service was great. I definitely recommend this winery! read more

Rusack Vineyards - Wine Flight - Wineries Near Me - Solvang, California

Wine: 4 stars Ambiance: 4.5 Stars Service: 3 Stars Wine: We enjoyed the wines here. I liked having the carafes on hand so we could pour at our own pace. I normally gravitate towards Pinot Noirs, but we ended up purchasing a 2017 Zinfandel which was a surprise hit. Ambiance: Loved the deck and patio area. The seating areas overlooking the vineyard are so peaceful and each are set far enough a part that you don't feel crowded. It was even more magical when the overhead string lights popped on as the sun was setting. I only wished there was a little more table space for wine, water, tasting carafes and food - but I'll take the blame for that since we picked our own table out. Service: We did not feel super welcome upon arrival. We were told we were the last reservation for the day (and we were right on time), but made to feel like that was an inconvenience somehow? We were told we could sit anywhere, but our server appeared exasperated when we took a moment to decide whether we wanted to be on the deck or patio area. I chalked it up to it just being a long busy day, but things did not get better. After being seated, it took a very long time for our server to return. Once our flight of wine was finally delivered, she began to walk away, before catching herself, realizing she didn't even give us any context or background on the wines or the winery. And even so, she really gave us the bare minimum. It was a bummer being in such a lovely setting, and not having the service match. read more

Just so you know, they are exactly open to the public. I used the contact form on their website to ask about a reservation with two weeks notice and they turned me down. You apparently have to get on their allocation waitlist to maybe get a visit but don't know it works. Disappointed as I was hoping to take some friends from Australia. read more

Gorgeous patio is what makes tasting here divine. Really a 4 or 5, except for.... We had two pourers, one nice, one a bit of a curmudgeon. But hey, just take your pour to the patio and hope you get nice one for next pour. Curmudgeon emphasized, "You pay for the tasting. We don't do the typical nonsense of taking away the tasting fee if you buy bottles." OK. We did not buy bottles and just paid for the tasting. The wine was good. Several of them very good. We would have bought if it had covered tasting. Indeed they would have made money. The patio was so nice. Wine quite good. Their policy: dumb. Their curmudgeon: he should not be a wine pourer. Yet look at my gorgeous photo of that patio and try for yourself. Their barely blush rose was my favorite. read more

Rusack Vineyards - Wineries Near Me - Solvang, California

Still one of my favorites, and a wonderful value to the many others in this valley. Rusack is a true boutique winery that makes a excellent Chardonnay, and an estate Syrah. Do ask for their Reserve Syrah which has 100% Syrah from their own vines. One of the best serene views of any wineries in the area. Plan ahead and bring a picnic and maybe enjoy a bottle amongst friends and family. Be sure to give JuJu, the resident vineyard's kitty, a scratch. read more

Rusack Vineyards - Wineries Near Me - Solvang, California

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Wine: the wine was the best part, they had a delicious assortment within the estate flight, including the syrahs Ambiance: the views and the property itself is beautiful, and should be a great place to lounge and let time pass Service: here's where things took a turn. Initially the service was great, they seated us immediately and were attentive while they took our order. It was an extremely windy day and we had some casualties, including spilled wine and broken glassware (around our puppy, mind you). Once they were able to accommodate for these issues - we were completely forgotten. The tables to the left, right, and two tables to the back had their servers visit an incredibly high number of times, while we did not receive any attention for the remainder of the stay. It was a a crap ending to a day we were looking forward to, but nothing seemed to go in our favor read more

One of the smaller vineyards in Ballard Canyon. We had a reservation and were able to get in on Saturday, the wines were fine, not stellar, but enjoyable. Our female server though seemed like she didn't want to be there that day, we told her it was our first time here, but her mood was not welcoming, didn't give us any background on the winery or about the grapes or anything else, other than we pour 2oz pours and you can mix and match. Maybe it was an off day but the experience could of been better read more

Rusack Vineyards - Ballard canyon in the background - Wineries Near Me - Solvang, California

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Wow! Just visited the Winery for the first time and apparently they changed their tasting room experience. It's now reservation only (which was easy to make) and they have a beautiful remodeled terrace for outdoor tasting. Went with my girlfriend and her parents and we really enjoyed our time! The tastings are totally customizable so you pay a couple bucks for each wine you pick out. This worked great since we all wanted to try different wines! They came in generous 2oz carafes and I felt the value was great for the quality of the wine. I was dying to try the Zin from Catalina Island and was not disappointed! Really, all of the wines were delicious. I must mention that as soon as we walked out of our car to approach the tasting room we were greeted with glasses of Rose! Needless to say, they are focusing the new rollout on customer experience and really are killing it! We bought a few bottles and drank the Pinot right away at an early dinner in Los Olivos. Will surely be back soon! read more

We came up to this picturesque winery a few weeks ago. It was everything we hoped and more. Sweeping views, incredibly comfortable cushioned chairs and couches outside, amazing service, and delicious wine. Our server, Robert, was so warm and friendly. His knowledge about the wines was both exceptional and accessible. He made the experience really fun and special. read more

Rusack Vineyards - a woman pouring wine into glasses - Wineries Near Me - Solvang, California

I think we had the curmudgeon a past reviewer described. First, this is a lovely venue if you want to do a picnic with your tasting. It's on a hill which affords it probably the best venue of the wineries in The Valley. The drive in is rural and lovely. The wines are good but not to the point we'd buy them. That may have changed if one of the two hosts at least acted like they enjoyed their job or even talking to people. We forgot to tell them we had a passport tasting until the second pour and from there on we were reminded at each turn that we forgot to do that until we checked out. For that reason we all took turns going back in for pours and just sat outside on the patio and stayed out of the bar area. They did not try in any way to inform when they poured and would just say here's our Pinot from here. I'd ask so tell me more about the vineyard and get a raised eyebrow and a few more perfunctory facts. Ok. Fine. I really tried to engage both the man and the woman working there but it's obvious they are not happy with their job. At least that lovely Monday afternoon. There were four of us there and we all felt it. We're all also older adults so it's not even that they don't like younger guests. Pours are skimpy but not sure if that's what they do when they find out you have a passport. I asked myself if I drank $18 worth of wine at the end and no I did not. I mistakenly set a foot in the barrel room (right next to the bar and it's not cordoned off or with a closed door) and was scolded not to do that. Ok I give up. Wine not good enough and picnic site not lovely enough to override the tense vibe and lack of warmth from your staff. read more

We have been a member of Rusack Vineyards for a couple of months now and our experience has been great! From the customer services, to informing us of the different types of wines and where they come from. The atmosphere is absolutely stunning. I highly recommend making a reservation and checking out Rusack! Oh and ask for Frank! He is absolutely incredible and very informative! read more

We spent the weekend in SB/Solvang area and Russack was definitely a highlight! We opted to grab a seat outside (all with such amazing views) and come back to the tasting room to get the additional pours. The wines were wonderful and next time we know to BYO picnic to pair them with! read more

Rusack Vineyards - Beautiful landscaping - Wineries Near Me - Solvang, California

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No more free wine glasses! I went on 12-15-18 and our server said they no longer give out free wine glasses with tasting. Our tasting was $15 for 5 wines but they said their price will go up to $18 for wine tasting. They don't credit your wine tasting with purchase either. Still loved their wines I felt it was the best wine from the 3 places we visited. read more

Nice location and beautiful views and a relaxed experience. The Zinfandel wines were a bit light for my taste. The server was friendly and engaging and helped us find some darker reds. read more

Rusack has a very pretty and inviting patio. They claim they like dogs and cats. Some patrons bring their dogs. Rusack also sells books with the titles "Wine Dogs" and "Wine Cats". So, I'd go with them really liking pets :-) The people pouring the wine are very friendly. Last time we had the pleasure of Marti looking after us. You can tell she likes (working at) Rusack. The wines are great. The Sauvignon Blanc is the best I have tasted in Santa Barbara County so far. Very refreshing. I like their reds, too. read more

Rusack Vineyards - Wineries Near Me - Solvang, California

Wow!!!! We went for our first tasting at this stunning vineyard. The patio under the oak trees was beautiful. So serene. Robert was fantastic and guided us with wines we might enjoy after we had finished a tasting and he was right on. He really took time to understand what we liked and didn't like and helped pick wines that were just to our liking. We couldn't have asked for more beautiful wines or a more beautiful setting. We were so impressed with their service and their wine that we just had to join their wine club. read more

Rusack Vineyards - Patio - Wineries Near Me - Solvang, California

Wonderful family owned winery in Ballard Canyon. The hospitality matched the wines and we thoroughly enjoyed our tasting. Large deck (has heaters) that you can bring in snacks (or lunch) get a bottle of wine and relax. This is the only winery open to the public in Ballard Canyon. Very peaceful. read more

What a place for picture perfect and scenic wine tasting in the Santa Ynez valley! Pack a picnic basket and head out to Rusack's where ample outdoor seating overlooking the vineyards in the shade of magnificent Old California Oak trees. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/rusack-vineyards-solvang?select=lDf90cDVEKryRrlcYjd_GQ#Pd56wZOBkjHz8IUvukW4sA http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/rusack-vineyards-solvang?select=lDf90cDVEKryRrlcYjd_GQ#GPXslP_utzUcrvicE2TLUg http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/rusack-vineyards-solvang?select=lDf90cDVEKryRrlcYjd_GQ#G3cdBxbghBworTrJxQ2q6A The tasting room is open seven days a week from 11am to 5pm. The tasting fee is $9.00, and includes a beautiful crystal logo glass to take with you as a souvenir of your visit. Their wine club members(Anacapa Cellar Club )get complimentary wine tasting and may bring up to four people in their group! They were very nice, organized and courteous even on a busy weekend afternoon. A decent line up included 7 samples...... Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay Rosé Pinot Noir Sangiovese ANACAPA Syrah " Soul of the Vine" Their dessert wine, stole the show. "Rich and mellow, with a honey - caramel nose and subtle flavors of honeysuckle, pear and orange sherbet, this wine truly embodies the soul of the vine" Not syrupy or sappy as many dessert wines tend to be... Located close to Solvang this a winery worth the trek to their somewhat remote location. I would and plan on making a repeat visit, picnic basket in hand. read more

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As with the Rancho Sisquoc review, none of the wines we tasted on this trip wowed us much but this winery possesses a beautiful place to picnic and sample the product, going so far as to save the native oaks by building their tasting deck around them. Very cool. It's one of the closest wineries to Solvang so if you don't look forward to the long drive up and through the beautiful Santa Ynez, you can keep it short here, sip wine and dine on traditional Danish fare in town right alongside the other hordes of tourists. Visit The Kitchen and save some room for the awesome fudge. read more

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"Wine improves with age. The older I get, the better I like it." --- Anonymous "I cook with wine; sometimes I even add it to the food." --- W. C. Fields This was a lovely last visit here on the second day of our wine tour through SB Wine Country. Unlike the previous two winery visits, this was at the public facility instead of at production location. However, John Falcone Rusack's winemaker set up a precise tasting session in his office with place settings, spitting cups, water...everything to do a proper tasting. And we needed the spitting cups because we went through everything they made! Mostly reds but a few of their whites. Everything very good but a few standouts were memorable: the Solomon Hills Pinot, the Anacapa red blend and, the revelation of the tasting, an excellent Zinfandel from of all places Catalina. Absolutely outstanding and made in a food friendly style sadly lacking in most CA zins these days. I also enjoyed Falcone's 2009 Cabernet made in Paso from his eponymous winery Falcone. I had drank the 2008 with lunch at Avant but the 2009 was even better...more fruit, more structure...better balance even coming from Paso whose cabernet's I generally dislike. An excellent effort! John sat with us for two hours and told a variety of stories about the Industry and the Catalina project. The Catalina wine is expensive owing to production costs but I would definitely buy the Zinfandel for myself and as a gift. As my Yelp friend Robin Z. noted, the grounds are lovely, perfect for picnic...and as Falcone has been winemaker for just a few years I bet they have greatly improved since her 2009 visit. Nice end to the wine tour part of the Day :) read more

A hidden gem tucked away in the hills of Solvang. Go there to enjoy the tranquility of wine country on their wood deck under oak trees, but you will some of the areas best Syrahs. The wine is moderately priced, each wine tasted was balanced and complex, yet fun and enjoyable. If you like dessert wines, they have a Late Harvest Semillon that is excellent! read more

This is the best looking vineyard location I've ever seen and experienced. Amazing views of the hills on the horizon dotted with trees... perfect garden lining the drive. The balcony is perfect... set underneath these big old oak trees with superb canopy. Man... they have this garden and grass area that is paradise. We got there at 11:15 AM before the lunch crowd hit and had the place all to ourselves. The birds were flying down and bathing in the birdbath. What a spectacle. Saw bluebirds... red birds... sparrows ... really cool. I don't even like birds. Oh yeah, I guess they serve wine inside. We don't know. We came for the VINEYARD. We did buy a bottle for the road to show them our love. They were nice people... I told them to LOOK OUT for Jeff's review. I drove up 3 hours from Los Angeles... I would drive there again just to go to Rusacks and drink it all in. (PS- I have to laugh at the people who expect the wine servers to be their best friends...please... bring your own friends next time) read more

This was my first Santa Ynez valley winery, so I don't have a lot of basis for comparison, but I thought Rusack was great. Get off the 101 to a windy road flanked by farms and horses and soon you will find Rusack. It is one main tasting room with a bar, but the fun part is the large outdoor area with nice wicker tables and huge old trees. The view consists of rows of grapevines and a few sets of rolling hills in the distance. This is the perfect place to bring a date or your family, and I thought it would be absolutely beautiful for a wedding. For $9 they set you up with a six-wine tasting menu and they let you keep the nice glass embossed with "Rusack" as a keepsake. The wine list starts with the lightest white and then proceeds through progressively more serious reds (okay let's face it, I'm no wine connoisseur) and finally it ends with a white dessert wine sweeter than candy. I don't know a lot about wine, but I liked how they were set up in order so that even a wine dummy like me could follow the progression. You pay up front and then sip and get more at your own pace, so you could easily spend an afternoon enjoying the scenery. Note: They have light food options (I specifically remember prosciutto) but judging by the zillion other people doing this they let you bring your own food. Some families brought coolers with lunch and snacks and others brought containers full of takeout. They are also kid-friendly. read more

Rusack Vineyards - The front entrance - Wineries Near Me - Solvang, California

If you are looking for a casual, down to earth place (with excellent service) to hang with your family / friends then this is the right place! I totally dig the vibe, they are also dog friendly, plus you are welcomed to bring your own snacks as you enjoy their excellent wine selection. We came without any reservation on a Saturday afternoon, and our group was seated within minutes in the outdoor area. I loved the patience and recommendations of the staff, they are very knowledgeable, and we their bottle to the very last drop. Parking was fairly easy, it took us a while to find a shaded spot, but if you are not picky, this should not even be an issue. Highly recommend this place, and would definitely visit again! read more

This is a little slice of heaven. I'm so glad this place was suggested to my friend and I. I highly suggest you bring a picnic, and plan to spend just that little bit of extra time here just enjoying the weather and scenery/ view. It is such a relaxing place, and just soak it in. The customer service was above par! My friend and I both really liked the Savignon Blanc, and we usually lean towards full bodied reds...so we both really like those kinds of surprises. read more

Rusack! The name makes me giggle a little bit. A testament to my maturity I guess. By the time we got here, I was getting tipsy so we shared a tasting. I think it was $10 for 7 pours, no glass. The tasting room had a cute little couch area with a coffee table. And you can get water out of a jug with those tiny paper cones. That was helpful. It's difficult to judge the wine for me since mostly, it all tasted very similar, especially by the 3rd tasting. :) read more

My girlfriend and I went here as a spontaneous adventure, and she was excited about it. The view was incredible, and the patio was beautiful! Wine was delicious, but the service was terrible. We were there for about an hour wine tasting, and none of the servers checked in on us at all! Our server offered us water in once we were seated but never came back with water when he brought us the wines. We kept looking at the servers, and they completely ignored us. They also checked in on other tables multiple times and not us not once. That was ridiculous. read more

My fave was the Sauvignon Blancarte from the tasting and I'm usually a red wine drinker. read more

Rusack Vineyards - Wineries Near Me - Solvang, California

This place was hopping this weekend...standing room only, and they seemed to be having some technical issues with the register. So, I'm not sure this is a fair review, but here goes: 2 stars for service - unfriendly and unattentive (again with the caveat that it was really busy) 3 stars for the wine - decent but overpriced 3.5 stars for the setting - beautiful and remote, good for a picnic on the lawn read more