Melville Winery Tasting Lounge — Attraction in Santa Barbara

Disappointed by Poor Service and Unwarranted Judgment

I was looking forward to enjoying a relaxing tasting experience at Melville Winery in Santa Barbara with a group of my girlfriends, but unfortunately, the visit ended on a very disappointing note. After a pleasant start, our host Rachel abruptly approached our table and refused to serve us our final flight. Her reason? She claimed she wasn't "comfortable" and felt we were intoxicated--without any basis or discussion.

We were respectful and composed throughout the tasting, and there was absolutely no cause for that kind of judgment or treatment. Being denied the full experience that we planned to paid for, based on someone's subjective perception, was not only embarrassing but completely unprofessional.

A couple that sat across from us overheard what had happened and walked up to Rachel while speaking with us and told her that they were leaving and wouldn't be back because they witnessed the way we were profiled and felt it was completely wrong.

There are many wonderful wineries in Santa Barbara that offer hospitality without judgment, J. Wilkes being one. We walked over to J. Wilkes following the mistreatment at this establishment and was greeted professionally. The waitress was attentive and knowledgeable of the various wines. Sadly, Melville fell short of that standard. I won't be returning--and I would advise others to consider how they treat their guests before choosing to visit. (Read the numerous reviews) We reached out to the owner Chad Melville, who gave numerous excuses on why his employee treated our group poorly and received not one apology. Actually asked was this our first time at a winery. I guess insinuating we didn't know how to behave....

Terrible experience with the staff. I had to approach them twice during a tasting because the glass was empty for over 10 minutes. When the male server came, he gave us attitude and did not explain the wine. Worst tasting experience I have ever had.

Update: Becky the manager was amazing. Very understanding of the situation and immediately helped to solve it. We ended up getting bottles and we will be back because of her...

The beauty of Santa Barbara is that it is wine tasting made easy. Instead of driving to wineries you can try some great options in town from winery specific to co-ops to wine rooms. Then decide what wineries you want to trek to. Melville is a great spot with strong wines. Server was knowledgeable and seemed to gauge to our interest. Add it...