California Winegrape Growers and Vintners Are on a Mission: to leave planet Earth better than we found it — and to use grape growing and winemaking to lead the way.
We are the fourth largest wine producing region in the world, with 70% of our vineyard acreage certified and more than 90% of our wine made in a certified winery. Our climate-smart winemaking methods are working at a scale that makes a difference.
Adopting environmentally and socially responsible practices and making them an integral part of how we do business is our way of ensuring the health of our land, our communities and our industry for generations to come.
There are several approaches and certification programs in California on a common mission, working to protect and restore our soil, air and water – elements that breathe life, and ultimately flavor, into our grapes and wines.
Sustainability certifications are comprehensive, covering all areas of vineyard and winery operations, with rigorous requirements that ensure adoption of sustainable practices and continuous improvement.
Regenerative certifications are the newest certification in the tapestry of initiatives to drive positive change, emphasizing soil health and social fairness.
Organic certifications emphasize practices to build and support healthy soils, vines, and ecosystems to reduce the need for inputs, such as fertilizers or pesticides.
Biodynamic certification treats the vineyard as a closed-loop system, aiming to eliminate the need to bring in materials from off the farm.
Certifications offer credibility and reflect deep commitment through the significant time, resources, and passion invested by the California wine community. California’s unwavering dedication ensures a future of exceptional wines while fostering a thriving environment and vibrant communities for generations to come.
California is the 4th largest wine growing region in the world.
of California’s winegrape acres are certified sustainable.
of California wine is made in a certified sustainable winery
In California, vintners and growers have long embraced practices that preserve natural resources, protect ecosystems and sustain the economic and cultural vitality of their communities.
Over time, these efforts have been bolstered by education and certification programs, demonstrating an industry-wide commitment to sustainability across the state.
View a retrospective of sustainable winegrowing in California
From grapes to glass, California wines are made by people who believe in a sustainable future. They’ve made responsible choices in the vineyard and winery so you can feel good about the California wines you choose. Choose Responsibly. Choose California..
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