Carucci Wines: From Garage to Glass
Eric Carucci, winemaker and owner of Carucci Wines, hosts Wino & Ernie’s in his Los Olivos tasting room.
This Fall, Wino Bottle Club is thrilled to feature Carucci Wines — a family-run, gem of a winery, rooted in passion, persistence, and the beauty of California’s Central Coast. This one feels extra special, because it’s the very first Wino Featured Winery to also be poured at Ernie’s Deli & Wine Bar, my sister Erin’s (aka “Ernie”) and brother-in-law Dave’s new spot in Encinitas.
I first heard about Carucci Wines through a mutual friend, when Erin and I were heading up to Santa Barbara wine country for some research (a perk of the job!) for Ernie’s and Wino, a friend told us, “You’ve got to check out Carucci.” So we reached out. The meeting almost didn’t happen — travel schedules and last-minute planning made it tricky — but wow, am I glad it did!
We met Eric at his inviting tasting room in downtown Los Olivos, and the moment you walk in, you feel at home. The vibe is minimalist-meets-modern with cozy seating areas (pretty sure we have his wife, Lindsay, to thank for that). And Eric? He’s one of those people that takes you about five seconds to like, and within 10 minutes, you feel like not just a friend-of-a-friend, but an actual friend. Raised in Poway and now crafting wines in the Santa Ynez Valley, his journey mirrors mine in reverse, having grown up on the Central Coast and now calling Encinitas home. I feels a bit like fate that our paths crossed, connected by friends, roots, and a love of wine.
Garagiste Beginnings
Eric’s winemaking story started humbly in his parents’ garage in Poway back in 2009, with a single barrel of Syrah from Sonoma’s Dry Creek. That little experiment lit a fire. By 2010, he had a small commercial release and the “garage project” was quickly becoming a true calling.
With Lindsay’s support (a fellow UCSB Gaucho!), the Caruccis packed up the kids and moved north to Santa Barbara wine country to make this dream their full-time life. In 2019, they opened their beautifully intimate tasting room on Grand Avenue in Los Olivos, where every pour reflects both skill and heart.
The Wines & Philosophy
Eric sources from cool-climate sites across the Central Coast — from Paso Robles to Santa Barbara. He focuses on gentle fermentations, lower temps, and minimal intervention to craft wines that are aromatic, vibrant, and true to their varietal character. Whether it’s his Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Grenache, Syrah, or blends, the through line is elegance and drinkability.
Wino + Ernie’s + Carucci = YUM
This fall, we’re pouring a lineup of Carucci favorites at Ernie’s. Each is available as a flight…and new Wino members get a complimentary flight of these beauties, on the spot!
Chenin Blanc – Fresh, bright, and textured, with notes of quince, pear, and citrus blossom
Chardonnay – Mineral-driven and layered, with hints of citrus, apple, and a touch of oak
X-2 Red Blend – Juicy and fruit-forward, with soft tannins and a subtle spice. A smooth, versatile blend of Grenache, Syrah and Merlot
Grenache – Bursting with red fruit, silky tannins, and a warm spice note
Syrah – Dark fruit, savory herbs, and a hint of smoke
Rosé (Wino Member Exclusive; will NOT be poured at Ernie’s because we don’t have enough!) – A vibrant rosé with notes of strawberry, watermelon and rose petal.
From garage beginnings to polished tasting experiences, Eric Carucci’s story — and his wines — are the real deal. Every bottle reflects not just his skill, but the nuances of passion and dedication of a family pursuing a dream together.
This fall, Wino members can enjoy Carucci Wines at home or join us at Ernie’s for a toast with friends and family. Get ready for new perks, pickup parties, and a whole lot of fun — because great wine is even better when shared with the people you love.