The original property was purchased in 1972 by a group of ambitious investors. They planted the vineyard in 1973. With few other vineyards to learn from, the vineyard was originally planted with numerous varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Grenache, Chardonnay, and Syrah. Zaca Mesa was one of the first wineries in Santa Barbara County since Prohibition. As the vineyard grew and viable production began, a winery was built on the estate in 1978 and later expanded in 1981. By the early 1990’s, we had determined that the varieties (Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Viognier, and Roussanne) grow the best on our site. We, then, decided to focus on the grapes varieties of the Rhône Valley of France. Our decision was reinforced in 1995 when Wine Spectator placed our 1993 Syrah #6 on their Top 100. It is still the only Santa Barbara County wine to break into their top 10. Additionally, our Syrah was served by President Clinton to French President Chirac at the White House. As one of the pioneers in the Santa Barbara County, Zaca Mesa was a training ground for many. Ken Brown was our first winemaker and later started Byron in Santa Maria Valley. Jim Clendenen and Bob Lindquist worked at Zaca Mesa before venturing out on their own to start Au Bon Climat and Qupé, respectively. Other alumni include Lane Tanner, Daniel Gehrs, Chuck Carlson of Curtis, and Adam Tolmach of Ojai. By 1988, the ownership group was reduced to just one of the original investors and that has not changed since. The Cushman family has a passion for winemaking and a long-term commitment to quality.