Spring has sprung! As the days lengthen and warm, the vines come out of their winter sleep and start unfurling tender green leaves. This phenomenon, bud break, marks the beginning of the 2025 grape growing year. This year will mark our 14th year of farming our Sonoma Mountain Estate vineyard organically. In honor of Earth Day, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on our many years of farming organically. A milestone that underscores our dedication to both the land and the wine we create.
Organic Certification
We put into action our commitment to farming organically in 2011, and we achieved California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) certification in 2014. However, Cabernet Sauvignon vines were first planted here in 1968. Over many years of farming this land and striving to grow grapes and create wines that express the character of Sonoma Mountain, we have continually fine tuned our methods. Fourteen years ago, we decided that the purest expression of this unique vineyard site could only be achieved by farming organically. This process required dedication and patience. The transition to organic certification can take many years because using conventional fertilizers depletes the bio-diversity of the soil. However, because our previous farming practices used minimal chemical inputs, the soils were already healthy when we began our transition. We received our organic certification in only three years; the minimum possible time frame.
Under the leadership of Phil Coturri, one of Sonoma’s most respected organic viticulturists, our vineyard has flourished. Phil has known this land for many decades and has been instrumental in guiding our farming practices to align with nature. The grape growing year may begin with bud break in the spring, but the organic cycle begins the previous winter. The decision of what seeds to plant in each year’s cover crop is determined months before the seeds are actually sown. Over the summer, when the vines are developing their grape clusters, we conduct tests on the stems of the leaves, or the petiole. This tells us what the vines are actually taking up from the soil. The results of these tests inform our choices for the next year’s cover crop. In November, we sow our custom seed mix. The winter rains germinate the seeds creating a ground cover that minimizes soil erosion and traps moisture. By early spring, that ground cover has matured into a bushy, vibrant tangle that usually includes a variety of legumes and mustard that fix nitrogen in the soil and offer a habitat for many beneficial insects. Over a period of years, the benefit of regularly planting a cover crop becomes apparent in the health of the grapevines and the tilth, or health, of the soil. Phil’s expertise has helped us build healthy soils, foster biodiversity, and create a balanced environment where vines thrive without the need for chemical intervention.
The Growing Movement Toward Organic Farming
Over the past few decades, the wine industry—particularly in California—has seen a sizeable shift toward organic and sustainable farming practices. More vintners are recognizing the benefits of organic viticulture, not only for the environment but also for the quality of their wines.
- In 2004, only about 3% of California vineyards were certified organic. Today, that number has grown to over 10%, with addiitonal acres transitioning each year.
- Sonoma County has been a leader in sustainability, with over 99% of its vineyards now certified sustainable, and an increasing number pursuing organic certification.
- Consumers are one force driving the change—studies show that demand for organic wines has grown by over 20% in the last decade, as wine lovers seek transparency and authenticity in their bottles.
- Farmers also increasingly recognize that organic farming methods allow them to maximize their resources: decreasing the need for irrigation and reducing the incidence of soil erosion.
We are proud to be part of this movement. Our commitment to organic viticulture reflects a broader industry trend that values environmental stewardship, healthy vines, and wines that speak truly of their terroir.
Why Organic Matters
Organic farming is not just a certification; it’s a way of life. By choosing this path, we:
- Protect Our Soil: Healthy soil is the foundation of great wine. Organic methods promote microbial diversity, improving vine resilience and fruit quality.
- Preserve Our Ecosystem: Encouraging biodiversity through cover crops attracts beneficial insects that naturally control pests, thus creating a self-sustaining vineyard.
- Craft Authentic Wines: Our Cabernet Sauvignon reflects the purity of its terroir and of the unique place that is Sonoma Mountain.
Looking Ahead
Responsible soil management is an ongoing journey. As we look to the future, we continue to explore regenerative farming techniques, water conservation strategies, and ways to further reduce our environmental impact. The start of the 2025 vintage is the start of another opportunity to preserve this special place for future generations.
The support of our wine club members’ allows us to continue this work.
We Raise Our Glasses
Here’s to healthy vines, bio-diverse soil, and wines that reflect a purity of place!
Cheers!
