Debut Organic Wine Conference Puts Farmers First

I attended this AWESOME conference and will have much more to say about it in coming weeks, but here is where the story starts…

by Organic Wine Conference

Mar 28, 2025

DUNDEE, Ore., (March 27, 2025) – For the first time in Willamette Valley history, vintners, farmers, wine consumers, and trade gathered on March 22 to specifically celebrate and discuss the impacts of organic farming practices on fine wine. Hosted at Alexana Winery, the inaugural Organically Grown Wine Conference brought together over 300 people for an interactive experience focused on showcasing the importance of organic practices and the effects of farming on fine wines. The day-long event was designed and led by the Organic Growers Network, a cohort of Willamette Valley-based farmers and viticulturists working with organic methods, and included insights from over 20 wineries, local food producers, chefs, sommeliers, and journalists.

"Organic farming is about collaboration at its core," says Alexana Director of Viticulture Drew Herman, a founding member of the Organic Winegrowers Network. "In the field, it’s about collaborating with nature. The Network was formed by Rob Schultz of Lemelson Vineyards so farmers could collaborate more efficiently. And with this event, we wanted to show folks from casual consumers to wine experts that the organic principles of health, ecology, fairness and care also include collaborating with our community at every step of the process—because our efforts are much more effective when we work together. And the wine tastes a whole lot better, too."

The cooperative nature of the Organic Growers Network was palpable across the event, which welcomed consumers and leading voices in the wine trade and media. The event was organized by Alexana Winery, Lemelson Vineyards, and the Oregon Organic Coalition, with support from the Culinary Breeding Network, Soter Vineyards, and the USDA’s Organic Transition Initiative. The day also included organic food from Cascade Organic, Wooden Heart, Naked Grazing, Organically Grown Company and Organic Valley, plus support from Field Day Public Relations, Visit McMinnville, and Travel Oregon, among others.

The conference’s hands-on field tours were highly attended as consumers expressed interest in witnessing common organic practices such as composting, cover cropping, and rotational grazing. In addition, leading voices in Oregon wine and organic certification spoke during an engaging panel discussion on The Impact of Organic Production on Wine Quality. Moderated by Elaine Chukan-Brown of Wine Enthusiast, the panel featured Jason Lett (The Eyrie Vineyards), Luisa Ponzi (Ponzi Vineyards) Chris Schreiner (Oregon Tilth), and Drew Herman (Alexana). Overall, the event significantly increased local understanding of how farming methods influence finished wine.

"We are thrilled with the turnout and conversations that arose at the conference," says Herman. "Not only were we able to introduce so many farmers to the folks enjoying their wines, but the day offered a chance for us to go deeper and really show people what’s happening in the vineyards to make the wines they love. It’s not something we get a chance to do often, and I already can’t wait to do it again."

Jordan Lonborg to Manage Groundstar Vineyard™ (Formerly Ampelos), Launching New Era with New Ownership

My note:An exciting new development for the site formerly known as Ampelos. Great new name! And rockstar vit leader Jordan Lomborg on board! Woo hoo!

Press release by Groundstar Vineyard & Estate™

Mar 20, 2025

LOMPOC, Calif., (March 19, 2025) – Groundstar Vineyard & Estate™ proudly announces its debut, unveiling a bold new vision for the Sta. Rita Hills property formerly known as Ampelos Vineyard. The 80-acre estate, including 25 acres of premium organic and Biodynamically farmed vines, has been reimagined under the stewardship of Chiara Shannon and Joseph Brent, who acquired the property from Peter and Rebecca Work in 2024. The renaming reflects a deep commitment to regenerative agriculture—a global movement focused on creating a healthier and more sustainable future for farming communities and the planet.

Carrying a Legacy Forward—With a Bigger Purpose and a New Name

Building on the vineyard’s pioneering legacy in organic, Biodynamic, and sustainable viticulture, Shannon and Brent aim to enhance the quality, health, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience of Groundstar Vineyard by implementing regenerative practices such as reduced/no tillage, habitat conservation, and holistic planned grazing.

“At Groundstar, we are looking beyond fence lines to cultivate a living example of how grape growing and ecology can thrive,” said Joseph Brent. “We are not winemakers, and this allows us to focus on farming innovation and land stewardship. With regenerative agriculture, we have the tools and a roadmap to care for our vineyard in the highest way possible while making a lasting, positive impact on the environment and our community.”

The name Groundstar draws inspiration from the Santa Ynez groundstar (Ancistrocarphus keilii), a rare native flower once thought extinct but recently rediscovered nearby at the Vandenberg Space Force Base in Lompoc, CA.

“We were deeply inspired by the story of the Santa Ynez groundstar,” said Chiara Shannon. “Small but mighty, this rare, beautiful flower is local to our area and embodies resilience—a principle central to our mission. It also reflects the connection between soil and sky, a core tenet of Biodynamics, while offering a message of hope. We love our new name.”

Shannon and Brent bring a bold ambition to the estate: to become Regenerative Organic Certified®(ROC), ensuring their vineyard achieves the highest standard in regenerative farming. In December 2024, they welcomed Jordan Lonborg, former Viticulturist at Tablas Creek Vineyard, as their Regenerative and Biodynamic Advisor. Lonborg has since joined Coastal Vineyard Care Associates, which manages Groundstar’s vineyard operations.

"Jordan brings unmatched expertise in Biodynamic and regenerative viticulture,” added Brent. "Under his guidance, we’ve immediately begun implementing practices to build soil health and increase vine vitality. With Jeff Newton, Ruben Solorzano, and the Coastal Vineyard Care team by our side, we anticipate an exceptional 2025 harvest—with superior grape quality.”

A Destination for Sustainability and Community

Groundstar Vineyard is not just a vineyard—it’s a living laboratory for regenerative organic farming. Wine enthusiasts and the local community will have unique opportunities to experience the estate throughout the year. One of the first is “The Wilderness Table” fundraising event benefitting Los Padres ForestWatch, taking place at the estate on May 4, 2025.

"We are excited to share Groundstar with the world,” said Shannon. “Our commitment to regenerative farming goes beyond the vine—we hope to inspire others to see the potential of agriculture as a force for good, from the ground up.”

Join the Journey

To stay updated on the latest at Groundstar Vineyard, upcoming experiences, and the evolution of regenerative agriculture, visit www.groundstarvineyard.com.

Free Tastings in March at Martorana in Dry Creek Valley, Celebrating Gio's 20th Anniversary of Winemaking

Martorana Family is one of those visitor friendly, unique, under the radar wineries that has the most wonderful creekside picnic table for visitors...plus a supercool living green roof over the winery. 

Bike and dog friendly, too.

If you want a kickback, true Sonoma winery to visit and play and picnic at, this is a great spot to explore.

This arrived in my email this morning and I wanted to pass it on...when was the last time you saw FREE TASTING in wine country???

GIO’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF WINEMAKING

Time sure flies when you’re crafting incredible wines. Our very own Gio is marking 20 years of winemaking magic at Martorana, and we’re popping some corks in celebration.

To keep this party flowing, we’re giving 20% off all wines, both at the winery and online. Use promo code GIO20 at checkout.*

But hurry! This deal disappears at midnight on March 31st.

Note: Your discount will be applied after the order processes. Promise.

TOAST GIO!

Free Tastings in March

We’re thrilled that sunshine and blue skies are making a grand return to Sonoma County, and we’re feeling nostalgic! So we’re throwing it back to the good old days with a special treat: Free wine tastings at Martorana all through March!*

Grab your friends, soak up the spring vibes, and raise a glass with us. We can’t wait to welcome you back!

*Limited to 6 guests

 

Regenerative? Or Regenerative Organic? "The Messy World of Defining Regenerative"

At Ecofarm this year, I went to a well attended session that was an update for the organic community on the two years of state hearings on defining the word "regenerative," which is now a buzz word that even the USDA says means a great many things to a great many people. 

From left to right: Regenerative Agriculture Work Group members: Bryce Lundberg, Lindberg Family Farms, Elizabeth Whitlow, former executive director, Regenerative Organic Alliance (ROA); Eric Morgan, former vice president, Braga Fresh Family Farms and now CEO of Rooted Ag Inc., and Rebekah Weber, policy director, California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) speaking at EcoFarm at Asilomar, Jan. 23, 2025

I have been researching the history of the sustainability and organic and biodynamic movements for a book proposal (I have an agent, wish me luck) on the various shades of green, so this gave me a chance to dive in and do some deep research. 

I read all the hundreds of comments submitted to the state during its hearings throughout the state, interviewed key influencers and wrote the article, which appeared last week on WineBusiness.com. As it is #2 in the most popular article list today, it looks to have captured some attention, as it should, as this new buzzword will confuse a lot of consumers. 

While the state is using the word, included in some legislation, certifiers and a very few early adopter wineries have begun to use the term, separate from the Regenerative Organic certification which guaranteed only organic approved materials. 

Now it appears that some wine companies, including the esteemed Domaine Chandon in Napa, owned by French luxury company LVMH, who wanted a non-organic regenerative certification have adopted the Regenified platform. 

Others, who are already certified organic, found in the Regenified label, an easier on-ramp to using the word "regenerative" on their labels. In contrast, the ROC standard is the gold standard and has stricter requirements regarding worker fairness, etc. 

So, once again, the green wine world splinters. Do you care more about carbon cycling (allegedly "regen") or chemicals? 

Pity the poor consumer!

I urge you to read the article, which represents a 360 degree view, of the term and how, after appearing in the world of food, it could be coming for the world of wine. 

Note: I also briefly looked at YouTube videos on regen in wine and they're going a great job of storytelling, above and beyond the usual wine videos. That is because they integrate animals in part. And regen is just a better story than the usual tractor-dog-guy and "our unique terroir." 

See here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HxUb09N8q4&t=6s

and here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kH2kKsBMl00&t=33s

But what I also saw was that way back in 2018, UCANR scientist Glenn McGourty was saying all the same stuff, only more eloquently and with science to back him up.

We now have some better sensor technology that's allowing better data-driven storytelling

See: https://grapeandwinemag.com/2024/12/18/can-regenerative-organic-farming-pencil-out-study-provides-state-of-the-art-data-and-demonstrates-dramatic-improvements-in-wine-quality/

And study results here:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lrly55neAPb88kgAH8eHtL_O4sRfScQZ/view)

Wouldn't it be nice if all these regen camps could agree on a common standard? Maybe the USDA could engage, too? 

I am not holding my breath.

What Wineries Are Certified Regenerative Organic? Here's the List – And a Map

 

   

NAPA 

--SILVER 

• Grgich Hills Estate 

• Neal Family Vineyards 

• Spottswoode (not all wine in brand; estate wines are from ROC grapes)

 

--BRONZE 

• Stag's Leap Wine Cellars (not all wine in brand; estate wines are from ROC grapes)

SONOMA

--SILVER 

• Donum Estate

• Medlock Ames

 --BRONZE 

• Gundlach Bundschu (not all wine in brand; estate wines are from ROC grapes)

MENDOCINO

--SILVER

• Bonterra (not all wine in brand; estate wines are from ROC grapes)

PASO ROBLES

--GOLD

Tablas Creek Vineyards (not all wine in brand; estate wines are from ROC grapes)

--SILVER

• Booker Vineyard

• MAHA Estate

 

 --BRONZE

• Halter Ranch 

OREGON

--GOLD

• Troon Vineyard and Farm

--SILVER

• Ambar Estate 

Boxed Wine Fever | Two New Organically Grown Options from Beloved Napa Wineries

Thanks to an Hawaiian restaurant with good taste in organically grown wines, I am happy to announce that the selection of US organically grown fine wines available in boxes has expanded to TWO.

Matthiasson has a rosé in box made from Grenache, Mourvèdre, Counoise (a little-known grape from France’s Rhône Valley) and Barbera–all grown organically in Yolo County. Two 3L boxes (equal to 8 bottles) sell for $196 total. Supplies are limited - order now.

Also available but only from the tasting room at the moment (a search for proper shipping containers is underway) is Frog's Leap's Flycatcher, a red blend from 2022 ($140 for 3L).

Last year Tablas Creek had an abundance of Grenache and made an estate Grenache it called Alouette. It is not yet known if that will be on offer this year. (Their Patelin boxed wines are not organically farmed but are grown by their neighbors who planted Tablas clones). Stay tuned for Alouette updates.

As you may or may not know I am a huge fan of boxed wine–85 percent carbon emissions! Why buy glass, and a container for four glasses, when all you want is a glass of deliciousness with your lunch...or on your afternoon break...or when you're done gardening for the day...etc etc. 

Better choice, better for you and the earth. 

Here is the article I wrote about boxed wines last year which made me a true believer. The biggest selling point of all is convenience, so going greener can be EASY.

Paso Robles Wine Community Joins Together to Create "Best of Paso" Auction Lot in Memory of JoAnn Cherry of MAHA Estate

 

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T.J. Martell's 15th Annual Los Angeles Wine Auction and Celebration will be held March 20th, 2025 at The Taglyan Complex in Hollywood, California

Press release by MAHA Estate/Villa Creek

LOS ANGELES, Calif., (March 12, 2025) - JoAnn Cherry, co-founder with her husband Cris, of MAHA Estate and Villa Creek Wines in Paso Robles, was a force of nature and an early advocate for organic and biodynamic farming along California's Central Coast. With her efforts, MAHA Estate is now certified both Regenerative Organic and Demeter Biodynamic, which not only produces delicious wines free from the use of chemicals and pesticides, but it is also harmonious with nature and helps to heal the Earth.

Before focusing entirely on their winery, Cris and JoAnn operated Villa Creek restaurant on the plaza in downtown Paso, a world class wine region, which became the de facto gathering spot for local vintners. So, when JoAnn passed away last year due to complications from cancer, her absence left a huge hole, not only with her husband Cris and two children, but with the entire Paso Robles wine community.

Cris and JoAnn were great supporters of the LA Wine Dinner and Auction for the TJ Martell Foundation, the music industry's leading funder of high-risk, high-reward cancer research leading to trailblazing advancements in early detection, screening, and treatments. For the 15th Annual version of the event on March 20th, 2025, in Hollywood, CA, Cris Cherry will be speaking to those attending about JoAnn, and the importance of funding essential research to one day eradicate this terrible disease.

Three co-chairs for the T.J. Martell dinner, Warren Christensen, Dino Paredes, and Danny Cooper, reached out to many of Paso Robles finest wineries for donations to create an impressive collection of wines to be auctioned in JoAnn's memory. The response was so overwhelming that the auction lot grew into a wine country escape for six people, over 200 bottles of the best wines in Paso (and the world), barrel tasting experiences with winemakers, catered lunches at three wineries, a three night stay at a beautiful vineyard house, dinner for six at Michelin rated In Bloom restaurant, and even a 20 lb. box of pasture raised chicken and pork. 

In addition, Cris Cherry and family will prepare a multi-course meal for six people, paired with MAHA wines at his MAHA Estate. The lot also includes 2 cases of highly allocated Saxum Vineyards wines, an extremely rare tasting with owner/winemaker Justin Smith, the maker of Wine Spectator's 2011 Wine of The Year, and an instant addition to their allocation list - normally a 7 year wait!

This live auction lot will be offered to the sold-out crowd but will also be available to phone-in bidders. For more details, please contact Terri O'Lear at (818) 321-3336.

About T.J. Martell Foundation: The T.J. Martell Foundation's mission is to cure cancer by bringing the music community together to fund high-risk, high-reward research that could lead to trailblazing advancements in early detection, screening, and treatments. Since its formation in 1975, they have raised more than $280 million in support of medical research grants at leading institutions across the United States.

For more information, contact: Terri O'Lear | Knock Out Productions | KnockOutProductions@gmail.com | (818) 321-3336

www.villacreek.com/

Handy? See This Help Wanted Ad: Vineyard Equipment & Vehicle Maintenance Manager, Bonterra Organic Estates

This comes from Winejobs.com:

Job Description:

As a Certified B Corporation, Bonterra Organic Estates (formerly Fetzer Vineyards) is grounded in the transformational goals of the regenerative business. Part of global powerhouse Viña Concha y Toro, Bonterra Organic Estates is focused on crafting wines rooted in regenerative, organic farming practices at our facility in Mendocino County, California, including category leader Bonterra; sustainability standout Fetzer; and 1000 Stories, California's original Bourbon barrel-aged wine.

We’ve got some big boots to fill as we hire our next Vineyard Equipment & Vehicle Maintenance Manager. Are you up for the challenge of managing two maintenance shops and two talented full-time mechanics while ensuring the utmost focus on safety and compliance not to mention managing over $1M in expense budgets? Keeping over 345 pieces of equipment in prime condition to support 830 acres of estate ranches isn’t for the faint of heart: 30 heavy truck/trailers, 25 pickups, 27 forklifts, 10 electric carts, 37 powered ag tractors, 148 ag implements, 14 ATV/UTV, 27 pumps and 30 small engine units. 

Maintenance Shop Management

Effectively and efficiently manage the equipment and vehicle shops through the use of the work order system, parts inventory, developed shop operations standards, housekeeping and safety programs and standards. Provide subject matter expertise in the areas of equipment sourcing and equipment evaluations. Provide cost analysis for jobs performed, cost to repair vs. replacement based on material and labor tracking data

Provide expertise in troubleshooting complex mechanical issues.

Manage the installation and removal of pumps for frost protection. Maintain/repair irrigation and frost system equipment 

Responsible for management of an effective preventative maintenance (PM) & repair program, considering the seasonality of farming operations. 

General Management

Responsible for employee management/development ie, performance coaching, reviews, staffing, budget planning, safety training. Manage departmental budgets, submit spending requests. 

Compliance including, but not limited to:

•  Waste Tire Program

•  Opacity Tests – Annual

•  Crane Certifications – Annual

•  Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax-IRS – Annual

•  Motor Carrier Permit – California DMV – Annual

•  U.S. DOT-FMCSA 

•  B.I.T. 

•  Hazardous disposal

•  Propane tanks

Administration responsibility either directly or through the delegation of tasks: 

•  CardMaster Cardlock System

•  ARI/Holman vehicle leases

•  Enterprise Leases, Vineyard Dept only

•  DMV required activities

Additional Duties

•  As necessary, inspect, service, diagnose, repair, assemble, rebuild, maintain equipment and all vehicles found in a winery and vineyard fleet environment: light trucks, passenger vehicles, ATVs, heavy equipment, forklifts, tractors, harvesters, vineyard implements

•  Perform welding and fabrication 

Requirements

•  HS diploma required. Associate’s or completion of technical/trade school program in diesel and automotive technology, or related field preferred. Combination of equivalent work, education or training experience will be considered.

•  8-10+ years experience in vehicle/heavy truck/vineyard equipment maintenance required

•  Demonstrated experience leading work teams, including efficient delegation/prioritization of daily/weekly activities

•  Demonstrated ability to work safely and maintain a safe work environment 

•  Demonstrated ability to actively repair and maintain vineyard & fleet equipment

•  Ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with internal/external contacts, vendors, outside contractors, employees, management, work teams

•  Ability to work effectively within budget constraints 

•  As needed, travel to BOE ranches in the Hopland/Ukiah areas to provide mechanical support on equipment located at these sites

•  Load and transport a variety of farming equipment to and from various ranch locations

•  Will require certifications to operate specific equipment, machinery and/or plant vehicles

•  Valid Driver’s License - Class C. Valid Class A license, a plus

•  Will require work in maintenance shop environment and outdoor environment, including dirt and pavement, in all weather conditions, indoor/outdoor, working/standing on concrete floors

•  Experience reading and using equipment manuals, equipment drawings and electrical schematics to diagnose and resolve equipment problems

•  Requires reading and writing in English and intermediate to advanced math abilities

•  Microsoft 365 office applications; email; internet

•  Requires pre-employment physical

•  Requires forklift certification or ability to become forklift certified

•  Manager is required to support shop operations between 7:00am and 3:30pm, Monday - Friday

•  Requires additional availability during seasonal peaks such as harvest and periods of frost. May also require call ins in the case of emergencies

Physical Requirements - Ability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs. and push/pull up to 50 lbs. on a frequent basis; requires ability to frequently walk, stand; sit, squat, kneel, bend; reach outward/upward; occasionally climb, crawl. Requires constant hand & finger dexterity for keyboarding/working at computer. Requires visual acuity & ability to distinguish colors. PPE: safety toe footwear, hearing protection, safety glasses.

Compensation - Target base salary - $115,000 - $125,000. Company vehicle provided. 

Benefits - First day Medical, Dental, Vision, Life & Disability, (401k) with company match 

Location - 12901 Old River Rd. Hopland, CA 95449

Apply https://recruiting2.ultipro.com/FET1003FETZ/JobBoard/c6d65af3-319c-4d5a-8905-6818e98b821b

Requires successful completion criminal background, DMV check, drug screen, pre-employment physical. AA/EOE/M/F/D/V Requires submittal of verification of your citizenship or legal right to work in the US at time of an employment offer. https://www.bonterra.com/privacy-policy

Job Posted: Thursday, February 27th

CCOF's First Organic Wine Grower Video Launches | Features the Jiang Family's Duncan Peak in Hopland

CCOF videos usually feature produce growers, but this new video showcases wine grower and vintner Jane Jiang from Mendocino's Duncan Peak (in Hopland) talking about why organic grapes matter–and especially to younger people.

Her family acquired the vineyard in 2014. Now she and her brother run it.

"My name is Jane Jiang. I'm the proprietor of Duncan Peak Vineyards. When I first  started in 2021 I was facing the choice between organic farming or conventional farming I have had some vineyard managers and vineyard advisers suggest conventional farming. 

Organic farming will cost more and it's a lot harder for a beginner farmer like myself, but I think it's important for a younger generation to know the benefit of organic farming, benefit to the environment to the human health and also to the wildlife. 

Think about a farmer who just sprays chemical herbicide in the farm and goes home and hugs their children with their clothes on. Or think about the underground water we consume, we use every day. But with organic farming you won't have to worry about any of this.

The organic farming is all about the balance between the vine and the nature. We use cover crops and we use compost to keep good health of the vine. 

For a new vineyard to be able to get certified organic, they have to go through a three year transitional period and then you have to submit the paperwork and get reviewed and then CCOF will send out an inspector to do an initial inspection. 

My biggest success so far is we were able to make high quality wine from our organic grapes and I find that it's extremely rewarding when people have positive feedback and also value our commitment to organic farming.

Organic Transition Grants - Deadline March 23

The latest CAFF newsletter includes a link for information about grants for farmers transitioning to organic. 

Their webpage also includes a testimonial from Vitis and Ovis farm, which I visited and wrote about this fall.

General Information and Timeline

The Organic Transition Pilot Program provides up to $30,000 in direct funding to farmers and ranchers to support their transition to organic agriculture. Grantees will be matched with CAFF staff for technical assistance to help them navigate organic certification and implement organic transition practices. Grantees will also have access to business and marketing technical assistance through this program.

The application opens February 24th, 2025 and closes March 23rd, 2025 at 11:59PM.

Eligibility for Applicants:

To be eligible for this grant, applicants must:

• Be actively farming or ranching in California

• Have at least 2 years of farm/ranch business experience

• Be engaged in or planning to sell agricultural products for profit

• Be 18 years or older

• Already practice organic methods but not yet certified

• Have an Organic System Plan (OSP) or commit to developing one

• Have secure access to the land under transition

• University, research, and nonprofit farms are not eligible for assistance

Applicants from underserved and socially disadvantaged communities will be prioritized. 

We are actively recruiting farmers in the Bay Area, San Joaquin Valley, and Southern California, but applications are welcome from across California.

Uses for Funding

Grantees can receive up to $30,000 in general financial assistance, plus an additional $30,000 for field preparation ($1,000 per acre for up to 30 acres). All funds must be used within one year of the project start date. Grantees must use funding for eligible purchases only. See below for eligible and ineligible costs:

Allowable Costs:

Organic livestock, poultry, and related expenses, such as animal health management required by organic standards;

Organic feed;

Educational materials, training on organic certification and production, or meeting attendance;

Inspection and certification fees;

On-farm water or soil testing fees;

Outside consultant fees if desired, as for development of an Organic System Plan (OSP);

Farming supplies to be applied to organic farming on the transitioning acres, such as organic-approved plastic mulch;

Farm equipment and repair to that equipment, where equipment is specific or widely preferred for organic farming of the type expected to occur on the transitioning acres

Qualifying equipment must be drawn from the following list, or authorized by CDFA:

Compost production, storage or spreading installations and equipment;

Weed management tools such as flamers or tines, tarps, row cover;

Transplanting or direct seeding equipment;

Intercropping equipment and modifications;

IPM-aligned equipment; 

Other cover-cropping equipment;

On-farm processing and distribution equipment (e.g., peelers, coolers, produce washing, sorting and sizing bins, refrigerated vehicles for transporting whole or minimally processed food) where it is applicable to the products expected from transitioning acres. 

Organic seeds and starts, including cover crop seeds;

Organic fertilizers;

Organic pest control inputs;

Ecosystem enhancement supplies and equipment (e.g., hedgerows, owl boxes, riparian area protection);

Compost, compost building materials, and similar organic amendments;

“Custom farming” operations (e.g., contracting out to perform planting). 

Unallowable Costs:

Property or land rent or lease;

Taxes;

Owner or employee labor;

Inputs for land outside the defined transitioning field(s), or for animals not dependent on the transitioning field(s).

Find more info here.

Update: New Chart from CDFA by Wine Economists Shows Percentage of Organic Wine Grapes by County

Organic Vineyard Share in California by County (2023). 

• Enormous range from lower than 2% in San Joaquin, Monterey, and Fresno to more than 30% in Lake and Mendocino. 

 Lake and Mendocino have a long history of growing for Bonterra.

• Napa has a 12.8% organic share, while Sonoma's share is just 5.1%.

Napa's share has grown since 2023 to 14 percent. One hundred wineries have organic estate vines in Napa.

Compare and contrast with the absolute numbers. 

Spy and Vintner Peter Sichel of Blue Nun Fame (and Father of Bettina Sichel of Sonoma's Laurel Glen) Dies at 102

The New York Times obit is here. (No paywall; this is a gift article).

Read my previous post here on his juicy memoir. 
https://winecountrygeographic.blogspot.com/2016/09/a-tale-well-told-peter-sichels_16.html

And stay tuned for an up and coming documentary to be released soon, chronicling his life. It's call The Last Spy.

Vineyard Teams' Tailgate Event: Grazing as a Sustainable Practice for Vineyards [March 12 in Los Olivos at Solminer]

Sheep curious? Come to the Vineyard Team's upcoming event at Solminer in Los Olivos.

A growing number of organic vineyardists are adopting sheep for more than just weed control. The saliva and urine of sheep are natural fertilizers, too, which I learned in late Feb. from Kelly Mulville when I attended a two day regenerative organic workshop at Paicines Ranch, along with dozens of leading winemakers and viticulturists. 

Certified organic speakers among the presenters: Kelly will be one of the speakers, along with Hillary Graves from Booker in Paso. Grower and vintner Anna DeLaski of Solminer (certified organic and biodynamic) hosts at her lovely small farm in Los Olivos.

EVENT

An in-depth look at the intricacies, logistics, challenges, and effects of grazing sheep in vineyards. A vineyard tour and grazing demo with owner/operator Anna DeLaski of Solminer followed by a panel discussion led by Gabe Worthington (MTI Soil Scientist/ Certified Crop Advisor) on the effects of incorporating grazing into permanent cropping systems. Panel includes Kelly Mulville (Paicines Ranch), Hillary Graves (Booker Vineyard), Mindy Record (Paso de Record & JUSTIN Vineyards), Randy Record(Paso de Record), and Cole Bakke (IOU Sheep Co.).

Speakers

Anna DeLaski, Solminer

Gabe Worthington, MTI

Kelly Mulville, Paicines Ranch

Hillary Graves, Booker Vineyard

Mindy Record, Paso de Record & JUSTIN Vineyards

Randy Record, Paso de Record

Cole Bakke, IOU Sheep Co.

CE Approved: CCA 2 S

SIP Certified Members: Earn hours for Standard 12.1.1 (annual 20 hours of CE) by uploading your registration receipt. Also, see if you can apply what you learned to earn more points in the chapter below:

Chapter 6 - Energy Conservation & Efficiency

Project Partners: Measure to Improve, and Vineyard Team

We [the organizers] would like to thank the USDA Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodity Grant [endangered species, editorial comment from Pam] for the investment in expanding markets for U.S. climate-smart commodities, leveraging the greenhouse gas benefits of climate-smart commodity production, and providing direct, meaningful benefits to production agriculture, including for small and underserved producers. 

NOTE: Solminers' wines are fantastic! Some of my faves.

Porter Creek Vineyards in Russian River Valley Extends Barrel Tasting 30-35 Percent Savings for Entire Month of March

This email arrived this morning from one of my favorite wineries. I highly recommend them. (I already have cases and cases of their wine in my cellar.) Their estate wines are certified organic and biodynamic. 

To me, Alex Davis is a living legend. He interned with Roumier in Burgundy in his formative years. Before that he won the statewide pruning contest while he was in high school. One of the few biodynamic vignerons in the U.S., he has tended this vineyard for decades. 

I am also grateful to him for connecting me to folks in Burgundy when I visited last year in the winter. 

More recently, in January, it was a pleasure to meet his daughter Fiona, who is studying vit and enology at Cal Poly in SLO at our recent Slow Wine event (held at Robert Hall Winery in Paso).  I've been drinking the Fiona Hill Pinot for years and now I have at least a visual idea of who she is. :)

Read more about the Porter Creek story here.

Greetings Everyone-

March is 'Barrel Tasting' month in the Russian River Valley!

Barrel Tasting is a time when you can purchase wines in advance for

30-35% off...before they are released. The official event was February 28th,  March 1st  & 2nd, but the discounts are extended today through the end of day on March 31st, 2025.

Since many can't make it 'in person' to Barrel Tasting, Porter Creek is making it easy to order your favorite wines at these significant discounts, either by responding to this email, or by calling us. The offer stands now and for entire month of March, or for how long "supplies last", as we have a certain volume for each wine that we can do at these prices.

The wines/prices offered for Barrel Tasting 2025 are:

2023 Russian River Chardonnay - 1/2 case for $200 or Full case for $350

2023 Fiona Hill Pinot Noir - 1/2 case for $285 or Full case for $500

2023 Winegrower's Reserve Pinot Noir - 1/2 case for $340 or Full case for $600

2023 Hillside Pinot Noir - Old Vine - 1/2 case for $400 or Full case for $700

2023 Carignane - Old Vine - 1/2 case for $180 of Full case for $330 

* Porter Creek Vintage Notes : The cool and foggy summer and early Autumn of 2023 raised concerns about achieving ripeness, but then a sunny October miraculously provided just what was needed. The resulting wines display exceptional richness, complexity, balanced alcohol and bright acidity.

If you would like to place an order, or if you have any questions, please drop a note back or give us a call. The above whites are released about a year from now, and the reds 12-16 months from now.

If you have purchased barrel samples from us in previous years, please drop a note back or call to check on release dates so we can arrange for pick-up or shipping :-)

Thank you, always, for your support.

Sincerely,

Alex & Jonathan

Porter Creek Vineyards

707-433-6321

 Note: Porter Creek Vineyards is also listed in Slow Wine Guide. Get your copy here.

The Great Data Debate: Does It Pay to Farm Organically?

 

Get the full story here! http://publications.myaglife.com/books/tnip/#p=23

You can also view the story online https://grapeandwinemag.com/2025/03/02/the-great-data-debate-does-it-pay-to-farm-organically/

I love it when actual wine growers get together and present their data and experiences. This event was a deep look into several different sites and varieties from a spectrum of Napa and Sonoma wineries–one that has been farming organically for a long time and one that is pretty new to the space. 

Note how the organic wine culture in the Cava wine growing region in Spain has spread to Gloria Ferrer and how the old world ag in Croatia has influenced Grgich Hills. But then there is also the challenge in Lodi to offer organic grapes from a low-priced wine region. 

Hope you will enjoy this piece I wrote about a Napa Green event. A rare look inside. 

Oregon's Organic Growers Debut Event with 25 Organic Wine Growers

Participating Wineries (certified and not certified)

Organic: Alexana (in transition to certification), Abbot Claim, Antica Terra (some vineyards certified), Art & Science, Bethel Heights (certified), Cristom, Eyrie (certified), Johan (Demeter certified), Human Cellars, Lemelson (certified organic since 2004), Lumos (certified and a key champion of organic vit in Oregon), Montinore (Demeter certified), Ponzi (in transition to organic certfication), Troon (Demeter certified)

(Note: I will be attending and will write more about the wines and the wineries here on this blog.)

Coinciding with the Estate's 20th Anniversary, Alexana Will Bring Together 25 Organic Wine Growers for the Debut Organic Growers Wine Conference

by Alexana Estate | Press Release

DUNDEE, Ore., (Feb. 25, 2025) – Alexana is proud to announce that the inaugural Organically Grown Wine Conference will be held at the winery’s Dundee Hills estate on Saturday, March 22, 2025, coinciding with the estate’s 20th anniversary. Bringing together a coalition of over 20 Oregon wineries using organic farming methods, the event will showcase the impact of organic practices on fine wine.  

“Too often, organic and sustainable farming methods and wine quality are talked about separately,” explains Alexana Estate Director of Viticulture, Drew Herman, a founding member of the Organic Winegrowers Network. “What we do in the vineyards has a dramatic impact on the finished wine in the glass, and the goal of this gathering is to show – rather than tell – our friends and peers just how vital these practices are to crafting long-lived, expressive, luxury wines.”  

Open to both consumers and members of the trade and media, the conference will feature a walk-around tasting of organic wines poured by winemakers and winegrowers from the participating wineries; hands-on field tours across the Alexana estate vineyard; and an engaging panel on The Impact of Organic Production on Wine Quality. Moderated by Elaine Chukan-Brown of Wine Enthusiast, the panel will feature insights from Jason Lett (The Eyrie Vineyards), Luisa Ponzi (Ponzi Vineyards) Chris Schreiner (Oregon Tilth), and Drew Herman (Alexana).  

The debut Organic Growers Wine Conference is the result of extensive collaboration across the Willamette Valley AVA and Oregon at large. Combining voices from leading organic farming associations including the Organic Wine Growers Network, Oregon Organic Coalition, the Culinary Breeding Network, and the USDA’s Organic Transition Initiative, the conference aims to substantially improve public understanding of the value and impacts of organic farming on fine wine. The event will cover topics including cover-cropping, integrative pest management, and the preservation of native plants while promoting tourism in Oregon wine country. 

Alexana Estate winery is celebrating its 20th anniversary throughout 2025, and the conference marks one of many events planned to commemorate the brand’s legacy of collaboration. The anniversary year also marks the expansion of Alexana's renowned hospitality experiences, introducing the “Origins” culinary tasting experience, in addition to a sequence of special events featuring in-house Chef Nic Maraziti, and the unveiling of new labels featuring a refined icon mark that represents the estate's distinctive mosaic of soils. 

"When Lynn Penner-Ash first brought me to this remarkable property in the Dundee Hills, I knew it held extraordinary potential," said Dr. Madaiah Revana, founder of Alexana Estate, as well as sister properties Revana Estate in Napa and Corazón del Sol in Mendoza, Argentina. "Twenty years later, I'm proud to see how our team has realized that potential through their dedication to understanding and expressing the unique character of this land. Each vintage brings new insights into our terroir, and our wines continue to evolve and improve thanks to a deeply curious, creative, and innovative team.” 

Alexana continues to build on its legacy, including their recent, rapid conversion to organic farming methods: Under the guidance of Herman, the entire 97 acres of Alexana vines are now grown using transformative cover-cropping, grazing, and integrative pest management techniques, a rare feat completed in a single calendar year. 

“Organic farming is about so much more than avoiding pesticides, and it’s better done in community across large areas of farmland than in piece-meal sections,” says Herman. “I’m so excited to bring together leading voices from across Oregon to make this conference happen, and show folks just how dramatic the impact of organic production is on finished wines.” 

About Alexana Estate

Alexana Winery is a tribute to the potential of the Western Slope of the Dundee Hills AVA. Alexana is one of the most geologically diverse sites in North America, with 22 soil types represented across its 97-acre vineyard. Their wines reflect the dynamic power of Oregon's ancient volcanic and marine terroirs. Since 2005, Alexana has been guided by a perpetual improvement philosophy encompassing certified organic farming methods and progressive grazing protocols. Alexana believes in cultivating meaningful relationships with the land and their communities, and is a proud member of Revana Vineyards, an independently owned family of wineries with estates in Oregon, Napa Valley, and Argentina.