sustainably farmed

We are very proud to announce that ampelos vineyard is one of the first to be certified as “sustainably farmed”, due to our active participation in this important pilot program. California is the first state to develop a measureable and recordable point system which covers 9 areas of farming practices. In order to qualify for vineyard certification, growers must farm in a way that protects both natural and human resources. These standards, and the program were developed by the Central Coast Vineyard Team. Details on the program, and the inaugural 2008 certified vineyards can be found here.

The Central Coast Vineyard Team (CCVT) is a non-profit whose mission is to identify and promote the most environmentally safe, viticulturally and economically sustainable farming methods, while maintaining or improving the quality and flavor of wine grapes. Sustainable agriculture is based on the three “E’s” of sustainability. To be considered a sustainable farming operation, a farmer must take into account the three E’s of sustainability - economically viable, environmentally sound, and socially equitable. An integral part of sustainable farming is the ability for farmers to evaluate their practices on a whole-farm level. CCVT has endeavored to create a measurable and recordable set of farming practices which encompass nine areas focused on Conservation and Enhancement of Biological Diversity, Vineyard Establishment and Management, Soil Conservation and Water Quality, Water Conservation, Energy Conservation & Efficiency, Air Quality, Social Equity, Pest Management, Continuing Education, and Wine Quality.

The certification includes requirements such as a Prohibited Materials List. In order to achieve certification, one must not use any of the active ingredients on the Prohibited Materials List. In addition there are points assigned to practices which are based on additional, non-required, but suggested management strategies. Also included is a farm plan which is required for certification – the farm plan includes documentation, reporting, and written examples of practices throughout the certification standards. The purpose of certification is for growers to evaluate their vineyard on a whole farm level. At ampelos, we feel that the additional human and economic responsibilities that we adhere to with this program are a natural extension of our biodynamic farming practices, with focus on environmental and natural farming practices.