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Celebrate Earth Month with California Wines

April is here, and it's time to raise a glass to sustainability! Down to Earth Month is back for its 14th year, celebrating the Golden State's dedication to sustainable winegrowing. Whether you're a wine aficionado or just starting your journey, this month-long campaign is all about how California winegrowers are changing the game with sustainable farming, winemaking and community impact.

bee in vineyard

Why California is Leading the Way in Sustainable Wine

Cheers to Down to Earth Month. California is the fourth-largest wine-producing region in the world—and it’s also leading the charge when it comes to sustainability. A 2023 survey found that 70% of wine trade members noticed a growing interest in wines made using climate-friendly practices. And it’s not just talk—California is walking the walk.

Here’s a quick breakdown of why California wines are making an impact:

  • 86% increase in certified sustainable vineyards since 2018.
  • 50% increase in certified sustainable wineries in just the past few years.
  • 90% of California wine is now made in certified-sustainable wineries (up from 80% in 2024).
  • 65% of the state’s vineyard acreage is certified sustainable, with 45% under the California Sustainable Winegrowing (CCSW) program.
bud break in vineyard

What’s Happening This Month?

Throughout April, wineries across California will host events, activites and experiences that show off their sustainable practices. Whether it’s eco-friendly vineyard tours, sustainable wine tastings, or fun festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while learning about how California is stepping up for the planet. Check out our calendar to learn more!

6 Ways California Wineries Are Making Sustainability a Priority

  1. Regenerative Farming: More Than Just Sustainability
    Regenerative farming goes beyond sustainability by focusing on improving soil health and strengthening vineyard ecosystems. This approach also includes promoting social responsibility, so workers are safe, communities thrive, and everyone benefits.

  2. Pest Control the Natural Way
    Instead of relying on chemicals, California winegrowers use natural methods to keep pests in check. Bat boxes attract bats that feast on insects, while owl boxes invite owls to hunt pesky gophers. Plus, they release ladybugs and parasitic wasps to keep harmful insects away from the vines.

  3. Water Conservation: Saving Every Drop
    Water conservation is a big deal in California, and wineries are stepping up with smart solutions. From rainwater collection to cutting-edge irrigation systems, California winegrowers are finding innovative ways to conserve water in the vineyard and winery.

  4. Harnessing Renewable Energy
    To reduce their carbon footprint, many California wineries are switching to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Plus, they’re transitioning to electric-powered vineyard vehicles and using eco-friendly biofuels for their equipment.

  5. Giving Back to the Community
    California wineries are about more than just wine—they care about their people, too. Employees participate in volunteer days for local causes and benefit from wellness programs that promote both physical and mental health. Some wineries even offer on-site yoga classes and healthy snacks!

  6. Eco-Friendly Packaging and Waste Reduction
    Sustainable packaging is a key focus for California wineries. By switching to lightweight glass bottles and using recycled materials, they’re cutting down on waste. And instead of throwing away leftover grape skins and seeds, many wineries compost them to keep the soil healthy.

certified sustainable logo

How to Find Sustainable California Wines

Finding sustainable California wines is easy! Just look for the Certified California Sustainable logo on bottles (it’s on over 378 million wine bottles!). You can also use the California Sustainable Winegrowing website to search for wineries, vineyards, and wines that are committed to sustainability.

Join the Celebration This April

So, why not celebrate California’s commitment to sustainability this April? Head out to a local vineyard, take a tour, or attend a tasting event. Every bottle of wine you enjoy is helping to support a movement toward a greener, more responsible wine industry. Check out our calendar for all the ways you can get involved and celebrate this awesome initiative. Cheers to sustainable sips!

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