This Famous Winery Is Adopting a Revolutionary Method (and It's Great News)
We are thrilled to announce another milestone in the California wine industry’s commitment to sustainability. Napa Valley icon Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars has been awarded the prestigious Regenerative Viticulture Certification . This recognition confirms its status as a pioneer in environmental conservation and wine quality.
A wine heritage enriched by sustainable innovation
Founded in 1970, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars made wine history by winning the famous Judgment of Paris in 1976. Today, the winery takes another step forward by becoming the first Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC) winery in the Stags Leap District appellation . This certification, issued by the Regenerative Organic Alliance, is the culmination of years of efforts in sustainable viticulture.
We found that the field has implemented a series of impressive measures to achieve this goal:
- Conservation of energy
- Carbon sequestration
- Improving soil health
- Increased biodiversity
As vineyard adventurers, we can only applaud this approach that combines tradition and innovation. The head of cultivation, Guillermo Perez, who arrived in 2020, has played a crucial role in this transformation. He says: "Regenerating the soil, increasing biodiversity, improving the health of the vines, supporting and protecting our team, as well as planning for the future of the farms and farmers are at the heart of our convictions."
The impact of regenerative viticulture on wines
The ROC certification is not just a label. It represents a true revolution in the way vines are cultivated and wine is made . Marcus Notaro, the cellar master, shares his enthusiasm: "We grow wine in a very special place and we are deeply proud of our roots. It is imperative that we protect it in order to continue to produce great wines in the decades to come."
This holistic approach is translating into tangible changes in the vineyard. Perez proudly notes, “The vineyard is more energetic than ever. When you walk through it, you feel the energy of life and biodiversity.” As passionate sommeliers, we look forward to seeing how these practices will influence the flavor profile and structure of the estate’s signature wines.
| Vineyard | Area | Main grape variety |
|---|---|---|
| Stag's Leap Vineyard | 15 hectares | Cabernet Sauvignon |
| FAY Vineyard | Not specified | Miscellaneous |
A model for the future of viticulture
Stag's Leap Wine Cellars' ROC certification is part of a broader trend toward more environmentally friendly winemaking. The winery earned Napa Green certification in 2017 and California Certified Organic Farming accreditation earlier this year. This steady progression toward more sustainable practices is an example for the entire wine industry.
It is vital to note that Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is not alone in this endeavor. Recently, Domaine Mirabeau in Provence became the first French producer to obtain ROC certification. This international momentum validates the growing importance of regenerative viticulture in the world of wine.
As wine ambassadors, we are convinced that this approach goes far beyond the simple preservation of the environment. It represents a real investment in the future of viticulture , guaranteeing not only the quality of wines for future generations, but also the health of wine ecosystems as a whole.
