The color, the quiet, the miraculous cycles of nature: California winemakers and growers feel most at home among the vines. Beyond tending the grapes, many feel a deep connection to the land itself.

It’s this passion and pride that has made California a world leader in sustainable winegrowing. From old-world practices like controlling weeds with livestock to technology like solar energy, we’re employing sustainable solutions at every level and every step.

Ultimately, going green benefits the greater good – employees, neighbors, customers, communities, wildlife – not to mention the soil, air and water that breathe life and flavor into our grapes and our wines. Learn more about our Green Programs

/ Definitions

Sustainable Winegrowing

Sustainable winegrowing practices in both vineyards and wineries help California vintners make high quality wines and provide a healthy and beautiful environment for employees, neighbors, and wine country visitors. Sustainable winegrowing can include biodynamic or organic farming practices.

Some examples of sustainable practices include:

  • sheep and beneficial birds to control weeds and pests
  • cover crops, drip irrigation and process ponds to conserve water
  • composting, recycling and reuse to minimize waste
  • protecting air and water quality
  • preserving local ecosystems and wildlife habitats
  • practicing environmentally preferred purchasing

For more information, visit: www.sustainablewinegrowing.org

Organic

Wines made with organically grown grapes come from vineyards that follow the guidelines set by the National Organic Program.

  • no synthetic pesticides or nonorganic chemicals
  • natural alternatives to soil enrichment, pests, weeds and vine disease management

Additionally, wines labeled organic cannot have added sulfites to prolong shelf life; they must be certified to contain no more than 10 parts per million.

For more information visit: www.ccof.org the USA’s largest organic certifier

Biodynamic

Biodynamic farming treats the vineyard as a closed loop, employing organic practices and natural alternatives for eliminating waste and promoting a healthy ecosystem.

  • no synthetic pesticides or nonorganic chemicals
  • compost teas and natural preparations to enrich soil and promote microorganisms
  • insectaries to control pests
  • planting and pruning determined by the phases of the moon

For more information visit: www.demeter-usa.org