Stakeholder Engagement

Industry and external stakeholders representing government, academic institutions and environmental and community organizations have been engaged in every step of the program’s evolution — from the development of the Code to the launch of certification. Wine Institute and California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA) highlight the industry’s sustainability leadership to policymakers, regulators, trade, media and consumers through various initiatives and regular sustainability reports, and by periodically conducting trade and consumer research to better understand interest in sustainably produced wine.

Down to earth month

Part of the Discover California Wines program, the annual Down to Earth Month takes place in April, with sustainability focused wine events and offers across the state, including Earth Day festivals, vineyard hikes, food and wine events, eco-tours, virtual events and more. The month-long celebration highlights the winemaking community’s commitment to protecting the environment, being a good neighbor and producing high-quality wines with sustainable farming and business practices.

Wine Institute and CSWA also organize related activities such as a legislative resolution declaring April as Down to Earth Month and an annual reception in Sacramento.

AMBASSADOR PROGRAM

Wine professionals can learn about sustainable practices used in California vineyards and wineries through a one-hour online certificate course. The free course provides an opportunity for winery sales, marketing, hospitality staff, retailers, and restaurateurs to learn about sustainable winegrowing so they can confidently share information with others.

CALIFORNIA GREEN MEDAL PROGRAM

Presented by CSWA, Wine Institute and other partner presenting organizations, the California Green Medal: Sustainable Winegrowing Leadership Awards provides recognition to vineyards and wineries with awards given in four categories: Leader, Environment, Community and Business. The Green Medal is a great opportunity to showcase the amazing commitment many California growers and vintners have made to protecting the environment and enhancing the communities in which they live and work.

The annual award is typically launched every November, with recipients recognized at subsequent events or winery visits. Learn more about how to apply and view past award recipients.

Consumer Research

CSWA, with wine and grape association partners from New York, Oregon, Washington and others around the country worked with Wine Intelligence to conduct a survey on consumer perceptions of sustainable winegrowing. The research indicated high interest in purchasing sustainably produced wine in the future, a favorable perception of sustainable certification programs and certification logos, and a willingness to pay more for sustainably produced wine, particularly by Millennials and Gen Z. Read the full press release.