Winery Details

Riverbench Vineyard was established in 1973, when its first Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes were planted on the property. For years since then, some of the most renowned wineries in Santa Barbara County have purchased Riverbench fruit for their own wines. Over time, Riverbench has become a prominent name for high quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the Santa Maria Valley. 
 
In 2004, a group of local families purchased the property and began making their own wine label using small quantities of their exceptional fruit – Riverbench Winery was born. The first vintage included both Estate and Reserve versions of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Since then, the portfolio has increased to include new interpretations of these noble varietals. All Riverbench wines are made in limited quantities, and many are available exclusively through their tasting room. 

• Nickname: Winemaker Chuck Ortman became one of the first Californian winemakers to explore the benefits of barrel fermentation of Chardonnay, earning him the nickname “Mr. Chardonnay.”

• Location: Riverbench Vineyard is situated on the southeastern edge of the Santa Maria Valley, an appellation known for its diverse microclimates and ideal conditions for growing Burgundian varieties.

• Bench: The vineyard is situated on the Santa Maria Bench, which is land made up of alluvial soils formed of sediment deposited by flowing water thousands of years ago.