CALIFORNIA ADOPTING SUSTAINABLE WINEMAKING

IN ITS LATEST REPORT, Community Sustainability, the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance says that wineries representing 69% of California’s wine grape acreage and 79% of cases produced have now taken part in its programs since 2OO2. In 2O15, 483 vineyards and 91 wineries achieved official certification under the Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing initiative, covering 64% of the state’s wine production. The report also claims that more wineries than ever are taking part in stricter sustainability targets under a 2O13 update. Figures for 2O15 include: 85% of growers used targeted micro-irrigation systems and optimize water use and conservation. 82% of growers reduced energy use through water pump improvements – the largest energy saving opportunity in the vineyard – and 74% of vintners conducted an energy audit of their winery within last five years. 84% of vintners encouraged employees to provide suggestions for improving operational efficiency to enhance sustainability.