J. Wilkes is a Santa Barbara winery known for its exceptional wine tasting experience featuring a range of rich, complex wines including Burgundy-style Pinot Noir, Syrah, and sparkling selections. The inviting tasting room offers cozy indoor seating by the fireplace and scenic outdoor patio views, ideal for both casual visitors and club members alike.
Guests can enjoy chocolate and charcuterie pairings, attentive service from knowledgeable staff, and a welcoming vibe perfect for people-watching near historic Stearns Wharf. Expect a relaxed atmosphere with no strict dress code and friendly staff who create a memorable visit, though a weekend reservation might be recommended as it’s a popular spot. The location is wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly, enhancing accessibility and comfort for all visitors.
What's Included:
🍷 Curated tastings of flagship and unique varietals
🍫 Chocolate pairings enhancing the tasting experience
🥂 Cozy indoor seating and outdoor patio with pier views
🧀 Charcuterie boards complementing wines
👩💼 Friendly, knowledgeable service with personalized attention
Important Information:
Reservation: Recommended during busy weekends
Parking: Street and nearby parking available
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible facility and restrooms
Pets: Dogs allowed on patio
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🍫 Chocolate Pairing Must-Try: Visitors recommend pairing select wines with the signature chocolate boxes for a remarkable flavor experience.
🕒 Best Visit Hours: Late afternoon from 2 to 6 PM on weekdays or weekends to enjoy a more relaxed vibe and seating availability.
🍷 Join the Wine Club: Frequent guests suggest joining the membership for access to exclusive bottles and personalized service from the staff.
🐾 Bring Your Dog: The outdoor patio welcomes dogs, making it a favorite spot for pet owners to sip wines with their furry friends.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
J. Wilkes is celebrated for its exceptional wines, especially the bourbon barrel cabernet and pinot noir, alongside attentive, friendly staff that enhance the tasting experience. Guests love the cozy tasting room with views near the pier and the added pleasure of chocolate pairings. Some mention pricing as a bit high, but the quality and service consistently earn high praise.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating. Gender-neutral restroom available for convenience.
