Semler Family tradition
A family tradition of growing flavorful wines at Saddlerock Ranch, Malibu evolved into opening tasting rooms for all to enjoy. The Semler family warmly welcomes visitors, guiding them through a captivating exploration of their wines. With each taste, you embark on a journey through the flavors of Malibu – from the crisp, cool notes of coastal Chardonnays to the robust richness of Cabernet Sauvignons nurtured in the sun-drenched vineyards. Each sip transports you to the 1100 acre Saddlerock ranch nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains that the Semler’s call home.
Saddlerock Ranch
History
The history of Saddlerock Ranch dates back over 300 years, when the land surrounding the Santa Monica Mountains was part of the original Spanish Land Grant known as El Malibu. The property is home to preserved Chumash Indian pictographs dating back to the Portola Expedition of 1769, some of the best-preserved examples remaining in the region today.
After a wildfire in 1978, Ron Semler purchased the land that is now Saddlerock Ranch. Originally bought as a place for one of his daughters to ride horses, the property gradually expanded as Ron and his wife Lisa purchased adjacent parcels to create a home for their family. Today, the 1,100-acre ranch is home to vineyards, farm animals, ranch hands, and the Semler family legacy.
Saddlerock Ranch
The Vineyard
Following a devastating freeze in 1992 that destroyed much of the property’s avocado crop, the Semler family turned to wine grapes as a more resilient and sustainable option. In 1997, they planted their first 15 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon in the Saddle Rock Malibu AVA.
Today, the ranch features over 70 acres of hillside vineyards with approximately 70,000 vines and twelve varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc. The rocky terrain, steep south-facing slopes, and coastal mountain climate create ideal conditions for producing premium wines.
Tours of the vineyard are available from Malibu Wine Tours.