Tucked into the cool coastal influence of Santa Barbara County, Lumen Wines continues to carve out a distinct identity rooted in place, philosophy and curiosity.
In speaking with co-founder Will Henry, it becomes clear that the winery’s commitment to soil health, low intervention winemaking and transparency drives every decision from vineyard to bottle.
One of the most intriguing examples of this approach is Wild King Vineyard , Lumen’s first producing estate site.
Planted entirely in pinot noir in the deep sand of the Marina Formation, it stands out not only for the grape itself but for the very ground it grows in. Under a microscope, sand grains reveal tiny remnants of shell and crustacean material.
While some assume sand is barren, Henry sees complexity. The higher concentration of shell fragments brings a subtle mineral quality to the wines, while foggy mornings and consistent coastal breezes preserve acidity and slow ripening.
Even neighboring vineyards cannot replicate the profile that emerges here. Combined with wild farming practices that naturally encourage smaller berries and clusters, the resulting pinot noir bursts with savory herbal notes and bright, snappy red fruit.
It tastes a little untamed in the most compelling way.
The sense of adventure does not stop at pinot noir. At the Warner Henry Vineyard, an experimental acre of the rare Italian grape Ruchè adds a new layer to the Lumen story.
Inspired by a love for Piemonte and encouraged by viticulturist, winemaker and friend Randall Grahm, Henry adopted this lesser known varietal after hearing it described as something like the daughter of Nebbiolo and pinot noir, both charismatic and unpredictable.
With its affinity for sandy soils and maritime climates, it felt like the perfect addition. In an industry that can sometimes cling tightly to tradition, Lumen saw an opportunity to explore.
Farming remains the core of the brand’s identity, and Henry takes that role seriously.
While many vineyard partners are certified organic or biodynamic, the desire to go further pushed Lumen to bring farming in house.
Organic certification came in 2023, but the journey did not stop there. Henry realized that organic standards represent rules rather than a guiding philosophy.
Daily sampling, tasting, lab work and weather watching inform the exact day to harvest.
Regenerative agriculture, which blends the scientific rigor of soil health with the holistic intent found in biodynamics, offered a long-term vision.
As the team nurtured cover crops, wildlife corridors and balanced soil microbiology, the vineyards came alive. The wines responded in turn, showing deeper nuance, texture and a stronger sense of place.
In the cellar, low intervention is not a trend but a necessity. Winemaker Lane Tanner has championed minimal sulfur use for decades due in part to an allergy.
Her experience proves that stability and longevity can be achieved with careful timing.
The key begins in the vineyard. Picking at the moment when sugar and acidity are naturally in harmony produces wines that need fewer interventions later.
Higher natural acidity allows the wine to protect itself, demanding minimal additives and rewarding patience. These are wines that evolve gracefully over time.
Lumen’s commitment extends beyond the bottle. As a partner of One Percent For The Planet, the winery donates revenue to support environmental causes, inspired by friend and mentor Yvon Chouinard.
For Henry, it’s not just about preserving land, it’s about accountability. He believes that transparency, including ingredient labeling, should be standard.
Beginning in 2024, Lumen decided to list all ingredients voluntarily. It is a decision rooted in respect for consumers and their desire to know what they’re drinking.
Working with fruit from historic sites such as Sanford & Benedict Vineyard and Julia’s Vineyard adds another dimension.
Although these vineyards are iconic, Henry approaches each block with the same care he gives his estate properties. Daily sampling, tasting, lab work and weather watching inform the exact day to harvest.
Each vineyard deserves the opportunity to express its voice. From established legends to young experimental plots, the goal remains the same. Produce wines that are elegant, layered and undeniably shaped by where they come from.
At Thanksgiving, I look forward to enjoying Lumen’s wines at my own table. Their balance, energy and savory nuance feel like the perfect pairing for a holiday that celebrates comfort, gratitude and togetherness.
