Hitching Post

In the picturesque landscapes of Santa Barbara County, a winery has emerged as a true beacon of exceptional winemaking. Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Winery, founded by the dynamic duo Gray Hartley and Frank Ostini, has not only captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts but has also played a significant role in putting Santa Barbara County on the wine map in recent years.

Gray Hartley and Frank Ostini’s partnership blossomed from a deep-rooted friendship and a shared passion for wine. Their journey began decades ago when they met while working at the renowned San Ysidro Ranch. United by their love for winemaking, they founded Hitching Post Winery in 1984, with a vision to create wines that truly reflected the region’s unique terroir and character.

However, it was the unexpected success of the hit movie “Sideways” in 2004 that catapulted Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Winery into the global spotlight. The film featured their wines prominently, sparking widespread interest and curiosity among wine lovers worldwide. As viewers fell in love with the characters, they also became captivated by the allure of the wines showcased on the screen, which included Hitching Post Pinot Noir.

This serendipitous association with “Sideways” brought a surge of attention to Santa Barbara County’s wines, with Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Winery at the forefront. The film’s popularity acted as a catalyst, propelling the region into the spotlight and elevating its reputation as a premier wine destination. Wine enthusiasts flocked to the region, eager to experience the charm and distinctiveness of Santa Barbara County’s wines firsthand.

Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Winery’s contribution to Santa Barbara County’s wine renaissance extends beyond the film. The winery’s unwavering commitment to crafting exceptional wines, particularly their renowned Pinot Noir, has solidified its position as one of the region’s most respected and beloved producers. Through their meticulous vineyard sourcing and artisanal winemaking techniques, Gray Hartley and Frank Ostini have consistently delivered wines that embody the essence of Santa Barbara County’s cool climate and unique terroir.

With each bottle they produce, Hartley and Ostini showcase the exceptional quality and diversity of Santa Barbara County’s wines. Their dedication to their craft has not only brought recognition to their winery but has also paved the way for other winemakers in the region to receive well-deserved attention.

Today, Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Winery stands as a testament to the power of friendship, passion, and the ability to put a region on the wine map. Through their partnership and the success of their wines, Gray Hartley and Frank Ostini have become ambassadors for Santa Barbara County, shining a spotlight on its unique viticultural offerings and helping it secure its place among the world’s top wine regions.

As wine lovers continue to explore the enchanting wines of Santa Barbara County, they owe a debt of gratitude to the pioneering spirit and exceptional craftsmanship of Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Winery. Their wines have become synonymous with the region’s reputation for producing exceptional cool-climate wines, leaving an indelible mark on the world of wine.