Riverbench Vineyard And Winery - Winery

A Lovely Boutique Winery in Central California

Riverbench Winery is a boutique winery dedicated to making small-batch sparkling and still wines in central California. Their approach to winemaking involves sustainably grown vineyards on the banks of Sisquoc River, known as the Santa Maria Bench. Their first grapes were planted on the river banks in 1973, the same year the winery was established. Since this time, many leading wineries in the region purchase grapes from the Riverbench vineyards to produce their own wines.

Riverbench Winery began making their wines in small quantities as early as 2006; their wines are exclusively available at the winery and tasting room.

The Premium Sparkling Wines of Riverbench Winery

In 2008, they committed to producing premium sparkling wines inspired by the history of sparkling wine production in France’s Champagne winegrowing region. In 2019, wine tasting flights at Riverbench featured their first sparkling wine made solely out of the grape variety, Pinot Meunier.

Sustainable Agricultural Practices in the Vineyards of Riverbench

The vineyards planted on the Santa Maria Bench feature alluvial soils that contain sand and gravel. Santa Maria is characterized by valleys that enjoy a unique microclimate favoring productive growth and quality cultivation of vines. The grape types grown include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier. Each block of vines is individually attended, and old vines are nurtured or replanted when the time comes for them to be replaced.

There is strict use of sustainable and organic methods in their vineyards that ensures the high quality of grapes and also protects the surrounding environment and health of their vineyards. Riverbench helps to protect the vines for future use and support their staff’s economic and social interests. Since 2008, the Riverbench has been a SIP Certified vineyard for its commitment to sustainability.