Who owns Rusack Vineyards?

Answered by Marvin Richey

Rusack Vineyards is owned by Geoff Rusack and Alison Wrigley Rusack, a husband and wife team who established the vineyard in 1995. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting their wines and experiencing the beauty of their Ballard Canyon estate firsthand.

Geoff and Alison are passionate about and have dedicated themselves to producing exceptional grapes and crafting high-quality wines. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of their vineyard and winemaking process.

The Ballard Canyon estate spans forty-eight acres, with seventeen acres dedicated to grapevines. The vineyard is meticulously cared for, with Geoff and Alison overseeing every detail. From the pruning of the vines to the harvest of the grapes, they are involved in every step of the process.

One of the things that sets Rusack Vineyards apart is their focus on the Ballard Canyon appellation. This region, located in Santa Barbara County, is known for its unique microclimate and diverse soils, which are ideal for growing grapes. Geoff and Alison saw the potential of this area and were among the first to plant vineyards in Ballard Canyon.

I had the opportunity to visit the Rusack Vineyards estate and was struck by the beauty of the surroundings. The vineyard is nestled in the rolling hills of Ballard Canyon, offering stunning views of the Santa Ynez Valley. The estate is a peaceful oasis, with rows of grapevines stretching out as far as the eye can see.

During my visit, I had the pleasure of tasting some of the wines produced by Rusack Vineyards. Their portfolio includes a variety of red and white wines, each showcasing the unique characteristics of the Ballard Canyon terroir. From their elegant Chardonnay to their complex Syrah, every wine I tasted was a testament to Geoff and Alison's dedication to quality.

In addition to their wine production, Rusack Vineyards also operates a tasting room on their estate. This inviting space allows visitors to sample their wines and learn more about the winemaking process. The staff at the tasting room are knowledgeable and passionate about the wines, making for a memorable and educational experience.

Rusack Vineyards is owned by Geoff Rusack and Alison Wrigley Rusack, a couple who are deeply committed to producing exceptional wines from their Ballard Canyon estate. Their attention to detail, passion for winemaking, and dedication to their craft make Rusack Vineyards a standout in the Santa Barbara wine region.