Steve Clifton, winemaker and owner of Palmina Vineyards, in his Lompoc tasting room with his 2007 Nebbiolo wines. He produces a full range of wines crafted from Italian varietals grown in Santa Barbara County. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)
Clifton makes nine Italian varietals, ranging from about $18 for the rosé to $90 for the single-vineyard Nebbiolo. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)
Italian wines typically have high acidity, pairing well with food. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)
Palmina Winery of winemaker and owner Steve Clifton said Santa Barbara is one of the coolest wine regions in California, making it great for Italian wine production. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)
Clifton tastes a delivery of freshly picked Barbera grapes. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)
