Californio-Cation
Photography by Katheryn Boyd Brolin
During the mid-19th century, Santa Barbara was shaped by the Ranchero Era, an entrepreneurial period following Mexican independence marked by old land grants, cattle ranches, and the so-called Californio culture. Inspired by this history, in 2025 a group of local friends conceived RANCHERO WHISKEY, a blend of 100 percent California-grain malt whiskey and traditional bourbon that pays homage to the Central Coast’s past. “It’s a whiskey that’s intended for everyone to enjoy in the sense that it’s very approachable, very flavorful, but not overbearing,” says cofounder and master distiller Justin McCabe. “There’s a little bit of spice and nuttiness that’s complemented by the sweetness of the bourbon. It’s very seductive.”
The brand’s other cofounders, Brad Vernon and Matthew Pifer, and partners Jennifer and Kris Zacharias, were all in agreement that their inaugural spirit be “rooted in tradition and built for the modern West, [and] celebrate independence, authenticity, and the enduring culture and stewardship of today’s California ranchers.” The easy-drinking whiskey had a soft launch this summer at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club (where it could be sipped on its own or enjoyed in artisan cocktails like the Kick’n Mule) and the Santa Barbara Rodeo. Now it’s available direct to consumer as the rollout to local retailers and watering holes ramps up.
“We also really hope to connect with the female whiskey drinkers,” Jennifer says. “It’s incredibly smooth on its own and great in cocktails, and really ideal for anyone who might be whiskey curious but worried about intensity.” rancherowhiskey.com
