Raise a Glass to Sustainability: California Wineries in Focus

Cue the Applause

And the award goes to… all of the 2024 California Green Medal Sustainable Winegrowing Award winners! LangeTwins Family Winery and Vineyard (Leader award), Gloria Ferrer (Environment award), Cooper-Garrod Vineyards at Garrod Farms (Community award) and Vino Farms, LLC (Business award). The California Green Medal program, now in its 10th year, provides recognition to vineyards and wineries who are leaders in implementing the three Es of sustainability (environment, economic and social equity), inspiring others in the industry and highlighting the benefits of participating in a sustainability program. This year’s winners are showing us how it’s done, making eco-friendly, socially responsible and high-quality wines with the planet in mind. 

Eating Green

Pairing sustainable wines with climate-friendly recipes isn’t just about making tasty meals — it’s also about giving the planet a high five. Sourcing ingredients from your garden, community supported agriculture (CSAs), neighborhood produce stands or the local farmers market are all ways to reduce your carbon footprint. 

Climate-friendly recipes have health benefits too. Plant-based dishes, for example, produce fewer emissions than dishes that include animal products. Some of the most climate-friendly examples include fresh fruits and vegetables, mushrooms and whole grains such as beans, lentils and peas. Root vegetables require a small amount of water and growing space to produce, so potatoes, carrots and beets are all good bets. 

Environmentally friendly seafood options include farmed clams, oysters and mussels, responsibly farmed shrimp, Pacific cod, sustainably farmed and wild-caught salmon and trout. For updates, see the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch website at seafoodwatch.org.

When purchasing wine, check the label for sustainability certifications. The vast majority of California wine is made by wineries certified under the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA)’s Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing program, and many participating wineries display a “Certified California Sustainable” logo on their labels. 

Other sustainable winegrowing certifications include LODI RULES, Napa Green, SIP Certified and Regenerative Organic Certified®, in addition to Biodynamic and Organic.

Whether you’re a wine aficionado or you just enjoy a good glass of wine from time to time, support sustainable sipping, especially during Down to Earth Month. Visit californiasustainablewine.com to find the perfect pour of certified, sustainably produced California wines.