For over 26 years, the Koehler family has dedicated its collective heart and soul to Koehler Winery. Farming of the 40-acre property is actively managed by the Koehlers, and their eco-friendly approach and sustainable vineyard and winemaking practices aim to elevate the quality of the winery’s hand-crafted, small batch wines.
The enduring relationships developed over the years help to cultivate the family atmosphere on the property and among the team. The 50-year-old estate vines have been painstakingly nurtured by one of the Santa Ynez valley’s most skilled and knowledgeable viticultural teams, many of whom have been with Koehler Winery for decades.
The Koehler’s eldest son Derek literally grew up on the estate and has lately taken on a more prominent role at the winery. Derek recently spent a semester in France studying international practices within the wine industry and is intent on ensuring the best earth-friendly practices in farming and winemaking are continuously adapted into the operations of the family winery. He can also often be found helping out in the tasting room where his engaging personality and easy-going manner add to the warm, welcoming ambience.
Winemaker Trace Brueske often passes by the tasting bar on his way to the cellar or vineyard, stopping to say hello to guests and sharing his wisdom on our extensive assortment of wines. Trace is passionate about regenerative farming and sustainability and hopes to soon earn an Organic designation on many of his hand-crafted wines.
Koehler Winery’s popular tasting room and wine club manager, Dan Zurliene, recently celebrated his 20th anniversary with Koehler. Over one-hundred fifty members joined in to celebrate Dan, a local favorite beloved as one of the friendliest and funniest stewards in the Santa Ynez Valley.
Acclaimed for its pleasant hospitality and welcoming atmosphere, Koehler Winery invites families and friends to relax and enjoy your tasting or wines by the glass and bottle in one of our picturesque outdoor settings. If you prefer, bring lunch and sip wine on the picnic lawn. And be sure to stop and say hello to our four-legged friends and emus who hang out daily.
We welcome you to join us at Koehler Winery for an approachable, easygoing experience in Santa Barbara Wine Country!