A ten-year venture by the present owners in collaboration with designer Michael Smith has produced one of the Santa Ynez Valley's most exciting vineyard estates. A strong feeling of the Italian countyside pervades from the approach through vineyards and a wide allee of olive trees to the expansive villa overlooking a two acre pond with breathtaking views to the Santa Raphael mountains beyond. Published in both House and Gardens and Santa Barbara Magazine, the house underwent an extensive and extraordinarily detailed architectural renovation emerging with the look and style of a centuries-old Tuscan villa. Stencilled ceilings, Venetian plastered walls, and limestone fireplaces acquired in Europe together with fabrics, furnishings and furniture combine to evoke a sense of casual luxury with an element of sophistication. Totally self sufficient, the 200 acre estate boasts an oversized pool, two tennis courts, six stables with apartment above, a manager's residence, and beautiful Tuscan inspired gardens. Eighty-four sustainable farmed acres produce extremely desirable and high quality grapes. Preliminary plans are available for a 14,000 sq. ft. winery. Thirty minutes from Santa Barbara and two hours from Los Angeles make this grand estate easily accessible for both business and pleasure.
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