Lea Wines

Winemaker Jennifer Lea Tensley focuses on vineyard-designated Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Rosé from Santa Barbara County. She initially pursued a career in broadcast journalism and then worked as a television and film writer in Los Angeles. In 2001, she moved to Santa Barbara County wine country where she wanted to combine her two passions: wine and writing. In 2002 she met young winemaker Joey Tensley and the couple were married the following year. She initially worked closely with her husband on his Tensley Wines brand, eventually launching her own brand in 2005. She started Lea Wines with two vineyard-designated Rosés, a vineyard-designated Pinot Noir, and a Sta Rita Hills Pinot Noir blend.

Lea offers a unique wine, Deux Terres (French for Two Soils) which is 50% 2009 Lea Turner Vineyard Pinot NOir and 50% 2009 Domaine Roger Belland Santenay-Commes Premier Cru. The idea was born when Jennifer and Joey visited Roger Belland and his daughter, Julie, of Domaine Roger Belland.

Lea wines are sensibly priced and available on the winery website. Discounts are offered to wine club members. The Tensley Tasting Room is located at 2900 Grand Avenue, Suite B, Los Olivos.