Local Growers Gather to Celebrate Ten Years of Sustainable Winegrowing

SANTA ROSA, Calif.  (January 31, 2024) – Each year, when many of Sonoma County’s 1,800 certified sustainable winegrape growers gather for the Sonoma County Winegrowers’ (SCW) annual meeting, they want to know what is next for one of the world’s most sustainable winegrowing regions.  Today, they learned the answer to their question: Sonoma County Winegrowers will embark on a major collaboration with one of the world’s most iconic brands, John Deere Company.

The collaboration with John Deere will be an addition to SCW’s innovative Farm of the Future, a living lab for the future of agriculture and an innovation accelerator.  Through this living lab, Sonoma County winegrowers and innovative companies can pilot concepts that may eventually result in game-changing solutions that can be shared with farmers across the country and around the world.  John Deere is the latest company to join SCW’s Farm of the Future, joining such renowned companies as Ford Pro and Wilbur Ellis, as well as emerging companies like Agrology and Pellenc.

“I am so excited to announce that we have begun working with John Deere given that our farmers love their tractors. This new collaboration will be one of the most significant developments for winegrapes and other high value crops,” said Karissa Kruse, president and CEO of the Sonoma County Winegrowers. She added, “Companies are drawn to Sonoma County because we are one of the world’s most sustainable winegrowing regions, and our living lab provides amazing real-world applications focused on achieving game-changing solutions.  We want to be the model for the future of agriculture everywhere.  With John Deere, we will be learning together how our farmers can do more with less resources while moving towards more mechanization to increase the longevity of their vineyards.”

The John Deere collaboration was announced as the local winegrapes growers celebrated ten years as the world’s most sustainable winegrowing region.  In 2014, at the Sonoma County Winegrowers annual meeting, Kruse addressed the group and made a bold declaration to the wine world that its more than 1,800 winegrowers were committed to becoming the nation’s first 100% certified sustainable wine region by 2019.  They met that 2019 target and today, Sonoma County has a record-breaking 99%  of its local vineyards certified sustainable.

It has since continued to build on its sustainability leadership as an exclusive participant in the California Land Stewardship Institute’s Climate Adaptation Certification Program which was the first program of its kind available in the world for agriculture.  SCW has also developed a one-hundred-year business plan, established a leadership academy for vineyard employees and more.

Through its efforts, Sonoma County continues to draw the attention from visionary scientists, engineers, financers, designers, manufacturers, and more who see great potential to work together and leverage SCW’s sustainability leadership and a network of climate stewards and forward-thinking change agents.

“Last summer, John Deere participated in Sonoma County Winegrowers’ inaugural Farm of the Future Strategic Summit, and it became immediately clear that we needed to be here in Sonoma County participating in SCW’s Farm of the Future initiative,” said Sean Sundberg, Business Integration Manager at John Deere.  He added, “Our focus is working with a real purpose on real technology to bring about a real impact.  We look forward to addressing some of the biggest  challenges facing winegrowers and farmers of other high value crops by developing solutions that address our customers’ needs. We are excited to work in Sonoma County with these innovative, forward-thinking winegrape growers.”

This year’s annual meeting marked the tenth anniversary of SCW’s commitment to become the first 100% sustainable wine region by 2019.  They not only achieved their goal but today, SCW has become one of the most recognized global leaders in sustainability and regenerative agriculture.  Their environmental leadership has continued over the years and includes the development of the industry’s first 100-year business plan; the establishment of the Center for Ag Sustainability; and a sustainable wine label that appears on more than 3 million cases and 600 different wine SKUs of Sonoma County wine.  Another major milestone of SCW’s sustainable approach — today more than 70% of Sonoma County’s vineyard acres are now glyphosate free.

In 2024, SCW will continue its sports marketing efforts including its partnership with the San Francisco Giants and the Houston Rockets where Sonoma County wines will be featured at more than 120 events at the Toyota Arena including the Rockets’ basketball games, concerts, and more.

“Our sports marketing efforts are proving to be the best intersection to raise awareness and increase accessibility for Sonoma County wines among a critically important younger and more diverse demographic.  It is no surprise that we are talking with more and more sports franchises about taking the Sonoma County wine experience to their arenas and stadiums,” said Kruse.

Kruse also highlighted the efforts of the Sonoma County Winegrowers’ foundation, the Fundación de la Voz de los Viñedos, whose mission is to support local vineyard employees and their families. This year, the Fundación will continue its employee recognition program which has celebrated the efforts and success of 274 employees of the month and 5 employees of the year.  Earlier this month, the Leadership Academy has begun its third year of teaching a variety of skills and trainings to help participating vineyard employees become better leaders in their community and workplace.

Sonoma County vineyard employees have seen their wages increase by 43% since 2017.  Also, Sonoma County winegrowers provide the largest supply of workforce housing in the region.  And there has been a significant shift to full-time employment for 90% of vineyard employees.  Just 10% of today’s vineyard workforce are seasonal employees.

Sonoma County Winegrowers 

Sonoma County Winegrowers (SCW), was established in 2006, evolving from the Sonoma County Grape Growers Association, which was first launched in 1983 by local grape growers inspired to work together to elevate the region. SCW is a marketing and educational organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Sonoma County as one of the world’s premier grape growing regions. With more than 1,800 growers, SCW’s goal is to increase awareness and recognition of the quality, sustainability and diversity of Sonoma County’s grapes and wines through dynamic marketing and educational programs targeted to wine consumers and influencers around the world. In 2014, Sonoma County’s winegrowing community embarked on a major initiative to have all Sonoma County vineyards certified sustainable. Today, 99% of the vineyard acreage in Sonoma County has completed certification by a third-party auditor making Sonoma County the most sustainable winegrowing region in the world.  In addition, in 2020, SCW became the exclusive pilot partner for the California Land Stewardship’s Climate Adaptation Certification. In 2022, SCW began envisioning a Farm of the Future which it officially introduced in 2023.  SCW’s sustainability efforts have been recognized with California’s highest environmental honor, the 2016 Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA).  Learn more at www.sonomawinegrape.org. 

Contact:

John Segale | 916.600.1081

A Later and Prolonged Harvest Led to Exceptional Quality and Quantity 

SANTA ROSA, Calif. (November 20, 2023) – August 24th marked the beginning of another record-breaking harvest in Sonoma County and winegrowers and their vineyard employees finally gathered recently in a local vineyard to discuss the year and the outstanding quality of the harvest. Their comments, both in English and Spanish, are provided below and the harvest roundtable can be viewed here.  

The year started with a winter and spring filled with above-average rainfall and below-average temperatures that got the growing season off to a slow start, delaying harvest well past the early-August “norm” of the past few drought-impacted years.  A mild spring and summer allowed for ample hang time, enabling the fruit to develop with stunning quality, and a few late-summer heat spikes are thought to have “made the vintage” according to Steve Sangiacomo, Partner at Sangiacomo Family Vineyards. 

Once harvest kicked off in late-August, the pattern of cooler weather continued, providing favorable conditions for the grapes to gain proper balance and brix, and be harvested at the opportune time. Matt Vogensen, Partner at Bevill Vineyard Management, commented, “I think anytime there’s not a weather event that forces the grapes to be picked, you’re automatically going to have a higher quality year….it was a pretty great year for the growers and wineries.” With harvest going well into fall and into the early weeks of November, cool nights led to some frost concerns. Steve Dutton, President of Dutton Ranch, even reported during the last two weeks of harvest there were many nights where they were picking grapes and frost protecting at the same time at ranches spread across west county.  

María Hernández, de Bevill Vineyard Management, añadió: “Siempre hay nuevos retos con la vendimia, pero nos enorgullecemos de nuestro trabajo y de entregar siempre la mejor calidad.” (Maria Hernandez of Bevill Vineyard Management added, “There are always new challenges with harvest, but we take pride in our work and always delivering the best quality.”) 

Overall, the wet, cool weather led to a remarkable harvest, with predictions of quality to be outstanding. As we transition into the dormant season, our dedicated grape growers and vineyard workfore can take a moment to rejoice in their hard work, savoring not only the quantity but also the exceptional quality of the 2023 harvest. Luis “Memo” Guillermo Velásquez de Dutton Ranch describió la tradición de reunirse como equipo al final de la temporada para una “Fiesta de la Cosecha”, la mejor manera de celebrar los frutos de su trabajo. (Luis “Memo” Guillermo Velasquez of Dutton Ranch described the tradtition of coming together as a team at the end of the season for a “Harvest Party” the best way to celebrate the fruits of their labor.) After celebrating together, they’ll return to the vineyards, tending the vines in preparation for the next vintage. 

This year marks the first time Sonoma County Winegrowers has created a bilingual harvest recap video, bringing in the perspective of the farmer and the vineyard employee as they work together to create the world-class grapes Sonoma County is known for. Capturing the essence of the 2023 harvest from all corners of the county, this captivating conversation weaves the story of another unique Sonoma County harvest. Click here to watch the harvest recap video. 

Here’s a brief look at perspectives from around the Sonoma County appellations: 

Alexander Valley  

“We started our harvest on August 24th and finished November 13th,” said Tyler Klick, Viticulturist and Owner of Redwood Empire Vineyard Management. “The year started with a wet winter and a very cool spring which pushed back our bloom dates, which in turn, pushed back our harvest date. Then we had a really nice summer. We did have some heat spikes, but those were early enough that they didn’t have an impact on quality or quantity.” 

Dry Creek Valley  

“Our first pick was the fourth of September this year, which is definitely a little later. With the cool weather that we did have, a lot of our blocks hung out there for quite a long time. There was a lot of hang time this year, which should lead to some great quality fruit. We didn’t end up finishing until November 4th,” commented Matt Vogensen, Partner at Bevill Vineyard Management. 

Russian River Valley  

Steve Dutton, President of Dutton Ranch, reports, “We started on September 1st and finished on November 8th. It was a record harvest for us, picking more tons than we’ve ever picked, which is very fortunate after the last several years we’ve had.” 

Sonoma Valley  

“We started harvest August 29th and finished November 1st, so we harvested in four months. I don’t know if we’ve ever done that before,” states Steve Sangiacomo, Partner at Sangiacomo Family Vineyards. “A long, cool summer allowed for amazing hang time. We’re very fortunate to mother nature this year. It was a resilient vintage for the vintners, the growers, and even the grapes.” 

### 

Sonoma County Winegrowers 

Sonoma County Winegrowers (SCW), was established in 2006, evolving from the Sonoma County Grape Growers Association, which was first launched in 1983 by local grape growers inspired to work together to elevate the region. SCW is a marketing and educational organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Sonoma County as one of the world’s premier grape growing regions. With more than 1,800 growers, SCW’s goal is to increase awareness and recognition of the quality, sustainability and diversity of Sonoma County’s grapes and wines through dynamic marketing and educational programs targeted to wine consumers and influencers around the world. In 2014, Sonoma County’s winegrowing community embarked on a major initiative to have all Sonoma County vineyards certified sustainable. Today, 99% of the vineyard acreage in Sonoma County has completed certification by a third-party auditor making Sonoma County the most sustainable winegrowing region in the world.  In addition, in 2020, SCW became the exclusive pilot partner for the California Land Stewardship’s Climate Adaptation Certification. In 2022, SCW began envisioning a Farm of the Future which it officially introduced in 2023.  SCW’s sustainability efforts have been recognized with California’s highest environmental honor, the 2016 Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA).  Learn more at www.sonomawinegrape.org. 

Contact:

John Segale | 916.600.1081

Partnership Will Begin New Era of Storytelling for Sonoma County Winegrowers 

SANTA ROSA, Calif. (November 9, 2023) – Sonoma County Winegrowers (SCW) is launching an inspiring partnership with acclaimed 8-time Emmy Award winner, producer, and reporter, Amy G. This collaboration marks an exciting chapter for both as they join forces to elevate Sonoma County. 

Amy G, renowned for her exceptional storytelling prowess and expertise in the world of broadcasting, brings a wealth of experience to the table. She has covered it all, including hard news, consumer news, medical news, and sports. Her remarkable career includes extensive work with the San Francisco Giants, where she provides player interviews, insights, and updates, and connects fans to players’ stories behind the scenes and on the field. A Sonoma County native, Amy grew up in Petaluma and has a profound respect and connection to the farming community. 

Notably, Amy G was instrumental in the “Giants in Sonoma County” video series, a collaborative effort between the San Francisco Giants and Sonoma County Winegrowers showcasing the unique intersection between baseball and wine. Along with Giants Master Sommelier Evan Goldstein, Amy served as host for the three videos and showcased her ability to effectively connect with winegrowers, captivate with her unique storytelling skills, and highlight the Sonoma County wine community with her personal anecdotes.  

“When I worked with Sonoma County Winegrowers earlier this year on a collaboration with the Giants, I didn’t want it to end. I’m so excited to join this innovative team,” said Amy G. “It’s an honor to represent Sonoma County Winegrowers as an ambassador and help shine a light on what I believe to be the most magical place to live. I get to continue covering the game I love and help tell the stories of the place and people I call home. It’s a match made in heaven, otherwise known as Sonoma County.” 

 With a shared passion for community, Sonoma County Winegrowers and Amy G are set to embark on an exciting journey, combining forces to enrich the narrative of Sonoma County as a premier winegrowing region. A lecturer at Sonoma State University, Amy G’s involvement will extend beyond her role as host, as she brings her expertise and experience in public speaking and education. Sonoma County Winegrowers looks forward to leveraging her skills to enhance educational initiatives within the winegrowing community and beyond. 

In addition to her educational contributions, Amy G will serve as an on-camera and in-person host/producer. Her charismatic presence and ability to connect with audiences make her an invaluable asset as SCW continues to engage and captivate wine enthusiasts nationwide. 

“Amy G is a natural storyteller and her understanding and love of Sonoma County, our local farmers and vintners, and our wines makes her an incredible ambassador for the region. We are so excited to expand our partnership with her .” said Karissa Kruse, president and CEO of the Sonoma County Winegrowers.  

Amy G’s partnership with Sonoma County Winegrowers marks a significant achievement in the organization’s commitment to innovation, education, and community engagement. The collaboration is poised to bring a fresh perspective to the world of wine storytelling, with the promise of inspiring and captivating content for years to come.

Sonoma County Winegrowers 

Sonoma County Winegrowers (SCW), was established in 2006, evolving from the Sonoma County Grape Growers Association, which was first launched in 1983 by local grape growers inspired to work together to elevate the region. SCW is a marketing and educational organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Sonoma County as one of the world’s premier grape growing regions. With more than 1,800 growers, SCW’s goal is to increase awareness and recognition of the quality, sustainability and diversity of Sonoma County’s grapes and wines through dynamic marketing and educational programs targeted to wine consumers and influencers around the world. In 2014, Sonoma County’s winegrowing community embarked on a major initiative to have all Sonoma County vineyards certified sustainable. Today, 99% of the vineyard acreage in Sonoma County has completed certification by a third-party auditor making Sonoma County the most sustainable winegrowing region in the world. In addition, in 2020, SCW became the exclusive pilot partner for the California Land Stewardship’s Climate Adaptation Certification. In 2022, SCW began envisioning a Farm of the Future which it officially introduced in 2023. SCW’s sustainability efforts have been recognized with California’s highest environmental honor, the 2016 Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA). Learn more at www.sonomawinegrape.org. 

Contact:

John Segale | 916.600.1081

Innovative Partnership will Showcase Sonoma County Wines Throughout the Houston Rockets NBA Season and all Toyota Center Events

SANTA ROSA, Calif. (October 30, 2023) – What do Sonoma County grape growers and basketball have in common? Both are attracting and connecting with fans in a whole new way. Building upon their successful relationships with Major League sports teams, the Sonoma County Winegrowers announced a new partnership with the Houston Rockets to bring a taste of Sonoma County to the most populous city in Texas.

This partnership highlights the Sonoma County wine region to Rockets fans at each of their games during the season, as well as, to the hundreds of thousands of Texans who visit Toyota Center throughout the year for numerous concerts, sporting events and other high-profile shows and gatherings. With this partnership, Sonoma County and its wines will be featured in Toyota Center’s exclusive lounges, restaurants, and other locations during Rockets games and all other activations at the Toyota Center during the year. These include Sonoma County wine tastings, winemaker features, regional and varietal highlights, unique access to boutique wineries for attendees during games and at events, and local retail highlights.

Just as Sonoma County is the most sustainable wine region in the world, Toyota Center was the first Texas sports facility to earn the Silver Certification for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.

The Houston Rockets are owned by Tilman J. Fertitta, who also owns the Landry’s portfolio of restaurants.  Thus, it is no surprise that Toyota Center is recognized for its best-in-class food and wine offerings.  Multiple upscale suites and private lounges throughout the center feature premium wine selections. With Sonoma County Winegrowers long-standing relationship with Landry’s, this new partnership with the Houston Rockets is a natural expansion of an ongoing effort to share Sonoma County wines and the region with Texas consumers.

“We’re excited to collaborate with Sonoma Winegrowers and feature their premium wines at Toyota Center,” said Rockets President of Business Operations Gretchen Sheirr. “This partnership will elevate our guests’ experience by offering a remarkable blend of wines to complement their enjoyment of Rockets games and our diverse range of events.”

“This exciting partnership continues our efforts to provide unparalleled access to our Sonoma County wines and our region at unique professional sports venues where people are gathering with friends and family to enjoy their time together,” said Karissa Kruse, president and chief executive officer of the Sonoma County Winegrowers. “Texas has been a great market for Sonoma County wines and the Houston Rockets partnership will only strengthen that relationship with wine lovers throughout the greater Houston area.”

Sonoma County Winegrowers 

Sonoma County Winegrowers (SCW), was established in 2006, evolving from the Sonoma County Grape Growers Association, which was first launched in 1983 by local grape growers inspired to work together to elevate the region. SCW is a marketing and educational organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Sonoma County as one of the world’s premier grape growing regions. With more than 1,800 growers, SCW’s goal is to increase awareness and recognition of the quality, sustainability and diversity of Sonoma County’s grapes and wines through dynamic marketing and educational programs targeted to wine consumers and influencers around the world. In 2014, Sonoma County’s winegrowing community embarked on a major initiative to have all Sonoma County vineyards certified sustainable. Today, 99% of the vineyard acreage in Sonoma County has completed certification by a third-party auditor making Sonoma County the most sustainable winegrowing region in the world. In addition, in 2020, SCW became the exclusive pilot partner for the California Land Stewardship’s Climate Adaptation Certification. In 2022, SCW began envisioning a Farm of the Future which it officially introduced in 2023. SCW’s sustainability efforts have been recognized with California’s highest environmental honor, the 2016 Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA). Learn more at www.sonomawinegrape.org. 

Contact:

John Segale | 916.600.1081

The Partnership Will Feature a “Sonoma in the City” Cloud Club Theme & New Wine Region Video Series

SANTA ROSA, Calif. (August 25, 2023) – Building on the success of their partnership which began shortly before Spring Training this year, the Sonoma County Winegrowers and the San Francisco Giants are teaming up for a “Sonoma in the City” theme in the Cloud Club, one of Oracle Park’s private lounges. During twelve (12) home games from August 25 through September 13,  the Cloud Club will exclusively feature wines, winegrowers and wineries from the iconic region. 

The San Francisco Giants historic hiring of Master Sommelier Evan Goldstein last year established  the team as the first professional sports organization to invest in the wine industry.  This partnership underscores the Giants dedication to providing exceptional gameday experiences by cultivating the look, taste and feel of Sonoma County throughout the Cloud Club for all visitors. 

“This is an incredible opportunity for us to showcase Sonoma County’s diverse, world-class wines to the San Francisco Giants community and fans,” said Karissa Kruse, president and CEO of the Sonoma County Winegrowers. “There is nothing like enjoying Giants baseball with some of the region’s finest wines while spending time with friends and family. We are proud to partner with  the Giants and believe our wines embody the experience of a memorable day at Oracle Park.” 

The Cloud Club is a private lounge on the Suite Level of Oracle Park  that affords extraordinary views of the field, San Francisco Bay and Oakland Hills. The Club features rotating decor and programming that celebrates the art, culture, culinary scene and famous personalities of San Francisco’s unique neighborhoods, and now, Sonoma County wine country.  

 During exclusive wine tastings and events, the Cloud Club will feature several wineries, including Bucher Vineyards, Lando Wines, Kosta Browne Winery, DaVero Farms & Winery, O’Connell Family Wines, Inman Family Wines, Lynmar Estate Winery, Paul Hobb’s Crossbarn Winery, Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery, MacRostie Winery, Bricoleur Vineyards and Cartograph Wines. Six (6) Sonoma County wines will also be regularly available at the Cloud Club bar from J. Vineyards, Bricoleur Vineyards, The Calling, Inman Family Wines, Dutton-Goldfield Winery and Kenwood Vineyards. The featured wines will highlight the wide range of grape varieties that are grown in Sonoma County’s 19 distinct American Viticulture Areas (AVAs).  

“We’re so excited to bring Sonoma County wine to Giants fans to help create memorable connections,” continued Kruse. “Baseball and wine have much in common, so engaging with an important and beloved franchise like the Giants is a perfect pairing.” 

Sonoma County Winegrowers and the San Francisco Giants will also launch a new video series titled, “Giants in Sonoma”,  across digital channels, in-ballpark and TV, hosted by Evan Goldstein and Giants ambassador Amy G.  The videos highlight the region and the unique intersection of wine, viticulture and baseball with accompanying stories from Rodney Strong Vineyards, Balletto Vineyards and Sangiacomo Family Wines.  

Sonoma County Winegrowers 

Sonoma County Winegrowers (SCW), was established in 2006, evolving from the Sonoma County Grape Growers Association, which was first launched in 1983 by local grape growers inspired to work together to elevate the region. SCW is a marketing and educational organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Sonoma County as one of the world’s premier grape growing regions. With more than 1,800 growers, SCW’s goal is to increase awareness and recognition of the quality, sustainability and diversity of Sonoma County’s grapes and wines through dynamic marketing and educational programs targeted to wine consumers and influencers around the world. In 2014, Sonoma County’s winegrowing community embarked on a major initiative to have all Sonoma County vineyards certified sustainable. Today, 99% of the vineyard acreage in Sonoma County has completed certification by a third-party auditor making Sonoma County the most sustainable winegrowing region in the world.  In addition, in 2020, SCW became the exclusive pilot partner for the California Land Stewardship’s Climate Adaptation Certification. In 2022, SCW began envisioning a Farm of the Future which it officially introduced in 2023.  SCW’s sustainability efforts have been recognized with California’s highest environmental honor, the 2016 Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA).  Learn more at www.sonomawinegrape.org. 

San Francisco Giants 

One of the oldest teams in Major League Baseball, the 140-year old franchise moved to San Francisco from New York in 1958. After playing a total of 42 years in Seals Stadium and Candlestick Park, the team moved to the privately constructed, downtown ballpark on the corner of 3rd and King in 2000. The organization is widely recognized for its innovative business practices and baseball excellence having been named in the past decade the Sports Organization of the Year by Street & Smith’s Sports Business Journal, Organization of the Year by Baseball America and ESPN’s Sports Humanitarian Team of the Year. Oracle Park is also the only ballpark in the country to have earned Silver, Gold and Platinum LEED certification for an existing building. 

Since opening its gates, Oracle Park has become internationally-renowned as a premier venue in the world of both sports and entertainment. On the diamond, more than 67 million spectators have witnessed countless magical moments, including three World Series Championships (2010, 2012 & 2014), the raising of four National League Pennants and eight playoff appearances. The ballpark has also hosted some of music’s biggest acts, including Lady Gaga, Beyoncé & Jay Z, Ed Sheeran, the Rolling Stones, the Eagles, Bruce Springsteen and the E-Street Band, Green Day and Billy Joel. 

Contact:

John Segale | 916.600.1081

Cooler, Wetter Start to the Year Likely to Result in More Normal Crop

SANTA ROSA, Calif. (August 8, 2023) – After a record winter and spring, with much-needed rainfall and below-average temperatures, the growing season started slower this year, putting predictions for the start of harvest closer to the “norm.” Vine and grape development are showing about one to two weeks behind a normal year (depending on the appellation and vineyard) and around three weeks behind the last few drought-impacted growing seasons. Accurate predictions for harvest rely heavily on favorable weather during August, with hopes that growth progress will quicken slightly.

Bloom was met with cool, misty weather, but the vines are looking healthy, and the 2023 crop is shaping up for what should be an average-size year, with expected yields getting back on par with pre-drought sizes. With steadily climbing temperatures during July, veraison has just started in some of the warmer, northern areas of the county, with the rest of the region eagerly awaiting its arrival.

Alexander Valley 

“The crop yields are generally good, and the vines are looking healthy,” said Tyler Klick, vice president and partner of Redwood Empire Vineyard Management. “We have seen veraison beginning in Alexander Valley with Chardonnay, Malbec, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon.”

Dry Creek Valley 

“Chardonnay started last week in Dry Creek Valley, Pinot Noir, just south of Healdsburg….the first Cabernet Sauvignon berries began to color just north of Geyserville – less than 1% of the berries in that block,” commented Duff Bevill, founder and partner of Bevill Vineyard Management.

Fountaingrove District 

Steve Heller, owner of Heller Family Vineyards, reports, “We have not yet had veraison which will make this the latest veraison in the last 13 years….when it happens! I project we will not start harvest (Merlot and Malbec) until mid-October, and Cabernet Sauvignon will be picked in late October or early November.”

Russian River Valley 

In the words of Jim Pratt from Cornerstone Certified Vineyard, the growing season can be summarized in three words, “late, late, late.” A great rainy season, mild frost and a cool year led to a long bloom period. Veraison has started in the warmer areas of the region, and predictions are for average yields with exceptional quality.

Sonoma Valley 

The slow-growing season continues as the area has yet to see signs of veraison. Taylor Serres, owner of Serres Ranch, reports “good rainfall, lots of early growth, and an extended bloom period.”

About Sonoma County Winegrowers: Sonoma County Winegrowers (SCW), was established in 2006, evolving from the Sonoma County Grape Growers Association, which was first launched in 1983 by local grape growers inspired to work together to elevate the region. SCW is a marketing and educational organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Sonoma County as one of the world’s premier grape growing regions. With more than 1,800 growers, SCW’s goal is to increase awareness and recognition of the quality, sustainability and diversity of Sonoma County’s grapes and wines through dynamic marketing and educational programs targeted to wine consumers and influencers around the world. In 2014, Sonoma County’s winegrowing community embarked on a major initiative to have all Sonoma County vineyards certified sustainable. Today, 99% of the vineyard acreage in Sonoma County has completed certification by a third-party auditor making Sonoma County the most sustainable winegrowing region in the world.  In addition, in 2020, SCW became the exclusive pilot partner for the California Land Stewardship’s Climate Adaptation Certification. In 2022, SCW began envisioning a Farm of the Future which it officially introduced in 2023.  SCW’s sustainability efforts have been recognized with California’s highest environmental honor, the 2016 Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA).  Learn more at www.sonomawinegrape.org.

Contact:

John Segale |  916.600.1081

Established as an American Viticultural Area in 1983, Dry Creek Valley is one of the first wine regions in California to be recognized as an AVA. On August 4th this beloved region will celebrate its 40th AVA anniversary. Dating back to 1880, it all started with nine wineries and 900 acres of planted vines. With only two of those wineries surviving prohibition, Pedroncelli and Frei Brothers, the history here is deep rooted. There are now 70 wineries producing world-class wines, most being multi-generational family owned and operated. Although the Dry Creek Valley AVA is best known for Zinfandel and its historic old vines, it’s important to note there are 150 growers growing a plethora of grape varietals. All in all, this wine region is incomparable! 

The gateway to this Sonoma County valley is the famed town of Healdsburg along with Cloverdale and Geyserville closing the embrace as you head north. Just 2 miles wide and 16 miles long, exploring this unique AVA is simple. Here you’ll find two main country roads, five stop signs and 10,000 acres of pure magic. As you look out over the valley, the vineyards resemble your favorite blanket laid across the floor. With ideal coastal and inland influences for the climate and soil composed of alluvial material deposited over thousands of years, the grapes grown here are full of flavor. Touring the valley, each winery you visit feels as if you are right in their home making special memories. Being one of the smallest wine regions in California, it is also mighty and has quickly become the hot spot for wine tasting!  

The community is strong and family oriented, with much support for each other. There is a distinct awareness of the importance of being good stewards of the land, with a large commitment to sustainable farming and winemaking so that future generations can likewise enjoy the magical beauty and bounty of the land.  

The Winegrowers of Dry Creek Valley® (WDCV) is an association of more than 50 DCV wineries and 100 growers dedicated to advancing the recognition, enhancement and preservation of Dry Creek Valley as a premium winegrowing region. We recently celebrated the AVA’s anniversary by hosting a panel tasting, bringing the legends and the bright next generation together to discuss the history of the land and winemaking in Dry Creek Valley. Following the panel, many enjoyed a walk around tasting of multiple, and very special, DCV wines. We look forward to continuing being advocates for our Dry Creek Valley AVA and all it has to offer.  

MEDIA CONTACT:
Amanda Brower
916.752.1100
amanda@wdcv.com

The Region is Considered Ideally Suited as a ‘Living Lab’ for Innovation and  Collaboration, Given its Leadership in Sustainability.

SANTA ROSA, Calif.  (July 25, 2023) – In recognition that climate impacts and marketplace dynamics are becoming more frequent and extreme for farmers, the Sonoma County Winegrowers invited experts from some of the country’s most iconic and innovative companies to gather in Sonoma County last week for its inaugural Farm of the Future Summit.  These leaders answered a call to action to collaborate with farmers in Sonoma County to ensure the future of agriculture.  They convened to plan, identify challenges and discuss potential collaborations and pilot projects that will be tested throughout Sonoma County’s certified sustainable vineyards.   

The summit, hosted by Sonoma County Winegrowers and facilitated by a leading professor from the Wharton School of Business, provided ample proof that the county has become a global leader for sustainability and regenerative agriculture.  In fact, Sonoma County’s certified sustainable vineyards are already serving as “living labs” for a host of pilot efforts and programs.  In addition,  there are more than 50 farmers who have already expressed interest in piloting technology and farming practices that will ensure the longevity of agriculture and specialty crops in Sonoma County and across the country. Companies that participated included Wilbur-Ellis, John Deere, Alaska Airlines, Pellenc, Agrology, PG&E, Wells Fargo, American AgCredit, Jordan Energy and Zenith Insurance Company among others. 

“As one of the world’s most sustainable winegrowing regions, Sonoma County has drawn the attention from visionary scientists, engineers, financers, designers, manufacturers, and more who see great potential to work together in a real-world environment towards climate stewardship,” said Karissa Kruse, president and chief executive officer of the Sonoma County Winegrowers.  She added,   “This new collaboration is one of the most significant developments in Sonoma County’s agricultural history.  It signifies our commitment to farming for future generations which will not only protect our open space and maintain our rural lifestyle, but is recognized and shared by leading companies who will help drive the region’s economy through their actions and effort.” 

What began two years ago with the Sonoma County Winegrowers’ first-of-its-kind collaboration with Ford Pro, has expanded significantly since then with new pilot projects and partners. Earlier this year, Wilbur-Ellis began working with growers to assist them in becoming more efficient in addressing soil health, biodiversity, resource diversity and utilization, carbon and climate action and water utilization.   Specifically, the company is working with seven pilot farmers to increase organic soil matter, map soil variability, conduct soil chemistry, develop prescriptive nutrition and soil health treatments, monitor and optimize soil moisture, identify optimal cover crops, monitor vine health and put new technology into real world trial work. 

“This project is unique in that we will be working with winegrape growers throughout Sonoma County to establish pilot farm blocks of 10 to 50 acres in size so we can address soil and vine nutrition, soil balance, soil health and more – all of which can benefit agriculture in the near future,” said Willie Negroni, vice president of Supplier Relations at Wilbur-Ellis.  He added, “We are inspired by the sustainability leadership and vision of Sonoma County winegrowers, and we are excited that Wilbur-Ellis was invited to play a role in the Farm of the Future initiative.” 

The Wilbur-Ellis collaboration with Sonoma County Winegrowers will expand to growers around the county with different soils and climates to get a robust understanding of best practices that can be modeled throughout winegrape growing and beyond to other crops.  

Another new innovative partnership was just announced with one of the country’s leading ag tech startups, Agrology.  The ag tech company has installed real-time carbon monitoring systems in two local vineyards including an Agrology Arbiter Carbon Monitoring System which was installed in the vineyards surrounding the Sonoma County Winegrowers’ office.  Those vineyards have evolved into a demonstration site for healthy soils, water monitoring and technology advancement.  These monitoring systems will enable growers to monitor, measure, and qualify soil carbon emissions, irrigation, extreme weather and more. 

“From the trucks that growers drive to the health of the soil, the Farm of the Future is setting an incredible example of how to apply technology to mitigate climate impacts and lower carbon emissions,” said Adam Koeppel, co-founder and CEO of Agrology. “At the soil level, carbon plays a huge role in the health of our planet. Sonoma County is now the first wine region to showcase this proof of concept in a living lab. We are honored to partner with them on this endeavor.” 

These partnerships are the start of what is expected to be many more partnerships linked to Sonoma County Winegrowers’ Farm of the Future and builds on the organization’s role as a global leader in sustainable farming.  

“By providing a living lab, we can pilot ‘proof of concept’ learning, like soil carbon measurement. This could eventually result in game-changing solutions that we can share with farmers across the country and around the world,” added Kruse.  

The Farm of the Future is a forward-thinking effort that is based in scenario planning to respond to climate impacts and changes in the marketplace effectively and quickly. It will serve as an innovation accelerator where businesses can share new technologies and put them into real-life practice.  Partners and collaborators can leverage Sonoma County Winegrowers sustainability leadership and a network of climate stewards and forward-thinking change agents.  

“Given Sonoma County’s global leadership in sustainability and regenerative agriculture, this region may become as important an innovation hub for agriculture as Silicon Valley has been to technology,” said George Day, professor emeritus at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and the Summit moderator.  

About Sonoma County Winegrowers: Sonoma County Winegrowers (SCW), was established in 2006, evolving from the Sonoma County Grape Growers Association, which was first launched in 1983 by local grape growers inspired to work together to elevate the region. SCW is a marketing and educational organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Sonoma County as one of the world’s premier grape growing regions. With more than 1,800 growers, SCW’s goal is to increase awareness and recognition of the quality, sustainability and diversity of Sonoma County’s grapes and wines through dynamic marketing and educational programs targeted to wine consumers and influencers around the world. In 2014, Sonoma County’s winegrowing community embarked on a major initiative to have all Sonoma County vineyards certified sustainable. Today, 99% of the vineyard acreage in Sonoma County has completed certification by a third-party auditor making Sonoma County the most sustainable winegrowing region in the world.  In addition, in 2020, SCW became the exclusive pilot partner for the California Land Stewardship’s Climate Adaptation Certification. In 2022, SCW began envisioning a Farm of the Future which it officially introduced in 2023.  SCW’s sustainability efforts have been recognized with California’s highest environmental honor, the 2016 Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA).  Learn more at www.sonomawinegrape.org.

Contact:

John Segale |  916.600.1081