About Us

Bill Wathen and Dick Doré have been making wine together since 1985, when they founded Foxen Winery & Vineyard at the historic Rancho Tinaquaic in Northern Santa Barbara County. Since that time their dedication has remained the same; the creation of small production, sustainably-farmed, vineyard-focused wines using a straightforward and honest approach to winemaking.
The winery is named in memory of William Benjamin Foxen, and English sea captain and Dick’s great-great grandfather. Benjamin Foxen came to Santa Barbara in the early 1800’s and purchased the historic Rancho Tinaquaic in 1837 with a Mexican Land Grant that totaled nearly 9000 acres, that comprises of what is now known as Foxen Canyon. Captain Foxen adopted the distinctive Anchor as his ranch cattle brand, which has become the trademark of the winery. We are proud that we have made our home on the now 2000-acre Rancho Tinaquaic, which has been passed down through the family.
In 2009 we completed our new solar-powered winery and tasting room, and our beloved historic Shack was renamed foxen 7200. Dick and Billy now feature their Bordeaux and Cal-Ital style wines under a newly designed label. Foxen Burgundy and Rhône style wines are showcased at our 7600 location.