Article: STOLPMAN
STOLPMAN
In 1988, Tom Stolpman discovered a rare limestone outcropping in the Ballard Canyon AVA of Santa Barbara County—just miles from the Pacific Ocean. Drawn by the ideal conditions for growing Rhône varietals, Tom and his wife Marilyn turned their dream, born during a Napa Valley honeymoon, into reality: the founding of Stolpman Vineyards. What began as a vision of sustainable viticulture soon evolved into a pioneering force in California winemaking.
In 2009, their son Pete Stolpman assumed leadership of the family estate. With a bold new direction, Pete shifted the business model—prioritizing in-house production over selling their fruit to other producers. This move laid the foundation for a portfolio of wines that express the full potential of their vineyard’s limestone-rich soils and maritime climate.
In 2009, their son Pete Stolpman assumed leadership of the family estate. With a bold new direction, Pete shifted the business model—prioritizing in-house production over selling their fruit to other producers. This move laid the foundation for a portfolio of wines that express the full potential of their vineyard’s limestone-rich soils and maritime climate.
At the heart of Pete’s leadership is an unwavering commitment to the vineyard team. Known as La Cuadrilla—a Spanish term meaning the support crew in a bullfighting ring—this group of dedicated vignerons is central to everything Stolpman does. The Cuadrilla profit-sharing program, which Pete expanded in his first vintage, now dedicates 10% of the winery’s entire production to honor their efforts. The result is more than just great wine—it’s a thriving, inclusive Cuadrilla.
The sense of family permeates the entire operation, from Pete and his wife Jessica, to vineyard stewards Ruben and Maria Solorzano, and winemakers Kyle Knapp and Matt Nocas. Together, they foster a culture rooted in excellence, sustainability, and innovation.
That same spirit shines through in every bottle. From their refined Estate wines, to the boundary-pushing “So Fresh” line—crafted with minimal sulfur and whole-grape fermentation—Stolpman Vineyards delivers wines of character and place. Their offerings don’t just reflect Ballard Canyon’s terroir—they redefine what Central Coast wine can be.
