Modesto, Calif.—E. & J. Gallo Winery announced an affiliate of the wine company purchased the Rancho Real Vineyard in the Santa Maria Valley appellation of Santa Barbara County. According to a press release by Gallo, the 436-acre property is located along Highway 101 and is 13 miles southeast of the town of Santa Maria. The vineyard purchased by Gallo Vineyards Inc. is comprised of 211 acres and planted to Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, Grenache, Viognier, Pinot Gris and Gamay. 

"The purchase of Rancho Real significantly establishes Gallo in Santa Barbara County and continues our commitment to having vineyards in the premier winegrowing appellations of California," said Roger Nabedian, senior vice president and general manager of Gallo's Premium Wine Division in the press release. "With the growth of premium wines in the U.S. and the demand for coastal-sourced grapes, additions like Rancho Real are key to Gallo's growth in the premium and luxury segments."

Based in California's Central Valley, Gallo continues to expand its presence throughout the state's coastal regions. The company now owns Edna Valley Vineyard in San Luis Obispo County, Bridlewood Estate Winery in Santa Barbara County and Talbott Vineyards located in the Santa Lucia Highlands appellation of Monterey County.