» California goes Down2Earth
Read story http://www.harpers.co.uk/news/news-headlines/8946-debut-new-world-collaboration-declared-a-success.html

» High Use of Environmentally-Friendly Practices in California

Oct 15, 2009

SAN FRANCISCO-The California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA) has released a report funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) revealing that 101 winegrowers surveyed throughout California have a remarkably high level of adoption of sustainable vineyard management practices.  Complete survey results are detailed in the report titled, "Understanding Adoption and Impacts of Sustainable Practices: Sustainable Winegrowing Program Participants' Survey," and is available online.  

About 60 percent of the 101 surveyed winegrowers reported using 10 or more of the 16 environmentally friendly farming practices included in the study.  The six most-used practices, adopted by 80 percent or more of the growers, include

• regular monitoring of pest insects and/or diseases;
• use of reduced risk pesticides;
• reduced tillage or no-till approaches;
• conservation of natural vegetation on vineyard property;
• leaf pulling; and
• planting cover crops in the vineyard.

Winegrowers offered a variety of reasons for adopting these vineyard practices, with the most common being concern about the environmental impacts of their farming operations, including conservation of natural resources, such as soil.  The economic benefits of the practices are important to growers.  Monitoring for pests and diseases; monitoring water use; planting cover crops; and reducing tillage are all associated with significant cost savings.  Several practices, such as leaf pulling, also improve the quality of winegrapes.

Almost half of the growers expressed an interest in adopting alternative energy sources such as solar or wind powered systems, but high capital costs and potentially long payback periods are mentioned as deterrents.  Many are interested in releasing beneficial insects or planting more habitat such as hedgerows, but feel constrained by lack of knowledge and experience.  Finding viable alternatives to chemical weed control and improving water conservation are also high on the priority list of those surveyed.   

Many of the grower participants praised the Sustainable Winegrowing Program for helping them learn about more sustainable farming practices.  Constructive suggestions offered for the future direction of the program include an emphasis on increasing public awareness about issues of sustainability in farming and encouraging the purchase of winegrapes and wine produced with sustainable winegrowing practices.

The NFWF requested the 2008 study to learn the motivations for why California winegrowers use environmentally sustainable farming practices, the extent to which they use these practices and the impacts of these practices on their vineyard operations.  NFWF believes the survey information can be useful to growers who have not yet tried these sustainable practices, those who have already adopted the practices, program planners and educators in this field, and policy-makers interested in agriculture.  The survey was conducted by University of California Davis researchers in collaboration with CSWA.  Survey participants were winegrowers who participated in the CSWA program.

In early 2010, CSWA also plans to publish a comprehensive 2009-10 Progress Report on the California wine community's adoption and target goals of the best practices related to the 500-page Code of Sustainable Winegrowing workbook.  More than 1,500 vintners and growers - representing approximately 60% of the state's wine case production and vineyard acreage - have self-assessed their operations at 125 introductory workshops. More than 5,500 vintners and growers have attended 135 targeted education workshops.  

About the CSWA's Sustainable Winegrowing Program
The Sustainable Winegrowing Program is a ground-breaking statewide initiative that encourages and enables growers and vintners to adopt the highest standards of sustainable winegrowing practices.  The program was established in 2002 as a partnership between Wine Institute and the California Association of Winegrape Growers.  For more information, visit www.sustainablewinegrowing.org.

» Video on Sustainability released
sept 2009, Wine Institute

NEW VIDEO Highlights California Sustainable Winegrowing

» US wine exports reach $ 1 billion

SAN FRANCISCO — U.S. wine exports, 90 percent from California, passed the $1 billion milestone for the first time with $1,008,259,000 in winery export revenues in 2008, up 6 percent from the previous year, according to the Wine Institute in San Francisco.  Volume shipments in 2008 increased 8 percent, compared to the previous year, to nearly 130 million gallons or 55 million cases. 

            “Wine exports have increased steadily during the past 15 years, increasing more than five-fold from $196 million in 1994.  Our wineries have been able to adjust and remain competitive despite changes in U.S. dollar exchange rates and during strong and weak economic conditions,” said Robert P. (Bobby) Koch, President and CEO of Wine Institute.

            “Wine is California’s second leading export product by value, and there is great opportunity to build upon this progress as the U.S. is the world’s fourth leading wine producer, yet holds a six percent share of the world export market,” said Linsey Gallagher, Wine Institute International Marketing Director.

To continue the momentum, Wine Institute, represented by its Director of International Trade Policy Joseph Rollo, is collaborating with the U.S. government and international organizations to help assure implementation of the 2006 EU-US Wine Trade agreement and to reduce high tariffs, production subsidies and other restrictive trade barriers throughout the world.

            Nearly half of U.S. wine exports are shipped to the European Union, accounting for $486 million.  Volume shipments to the European Union increased 9 percent in 2008 compared to 2007, and sales by value grew at a slightly lower rate of 2 percent due to the continuing strategy of producers exporting bulk wine for bottling overseas to save the costs of shipping bottles and other packaging.  The finished wines are then shipped to their final destinations in neighboring countries.  The next leading markets were: Canada, $260 million; Japan, $61 million; Hong Kong, $26 million; and Mexico, $23 million. 

“In tough trading conditions, California continued to build market share in the United Kingdom,” said Wine Institute’s Trade Director for the UK John McLaren.  “The highlight was

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U.S. Wine Exports  

Page 2 of 4

overtaking France for the number two slot behind Australia.  California has the right combination of developed brands, flexible and responsive producers, and a huge diversity of quality varietals to weather the current business climate.  I believe we are the best equipped to meet future challenges and build both on our consumer perceptions and our market position.”

“While we are also starting to see the effects of the financial crisis on the European wine markets, California has performed well in Europe in 2008,” said Trade Director for Europe Paul Molleman.  Exports to the key market of Germany are on the rebound as there is renewed importer interest in adding California to their portfolio, and sales are up in most countries.  The best example is Poland, where California's positive image and availability of excellent value wines have resulted in a 14 percent market share, well ahead of France.”

“In Canada, retail wine sales for California wines exceeded 3.2 million cases for the first time ever, helped by favorable exchange rates, exciting new product introductions and several very successful liquor board promotions,” said Rick Slomka, Trade Director for Canada. “The most impactful promotion was the partnership with the Liquor Control Board of Ontario to create a fully-integrated marketing campaign called ‘California Style,’ probably the largest retail promotion of California wines ever outside the U.S. market.  These promotions provided the category with ongoing momentum which is carrying over into 2009.”

Japan Trade Director Ken-ichi Hori said California wineries were also shipping sizeable branded volume as bulk wine for packaging and bottling in Japan to economize on transportation costs and reduce the import duty on wine.  “Bulk wine shipments have skyrocketed 1,035 percent, and 2008 U.S. bottled table wines have increased in value 6.5 percent over 2007 despite the significant volume decrease.  This means California is selling more expensive wines to Japan.”

Growth in other markets include: China, up 34 percent to $22 million; Austria up 31 percent to $14 million; and Singapore, up 26 percent to $11 million.

"Regionally, greater China showed tremendous growth in 2008.  Hong Kong was buoyed by its repeal of the local import tax on wine and has quickly become the wine hub for Asia.  California wine exports to Hong Kong clearly outpaced that of our major competition,” said Eric Pope, Regional Director, Emerging Markets.  “China remains the most sought-after export market worldwide due to its sheer population size.  Growth continued, albeit at a slower rate than in 2007—perhaps a first sign that the global financial crisis is impacting the Chinese market for imported wine.”  

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U.S. Wine Exports  

Page 3 of 4

Since 1985, Wine Institute has served as the administrator of the Market Access Program, an export promotion program managed by the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service. Currently, more than 150 California wineries participate in the Wine Institute’s International Program.

» Get ZAPPED in Bordeaux

Join ZAP at Vinexpo in June
Taste quintessential California Zinfandel, an Old World grape that has flourished in New World soil since the 1800s.

Visit ZAP's Booth at the California Wine Pavilion
Zinfandel Advocates & Producers is bringing top wine producers to VinExpo pour their Zinfandels for you. Special regional tastings will be offered from many of California's premium wine grape growing regions including:
• Sonoma County - Dry Creek Valley, Russian River Valley, Sonoma Valley
• Napa Valley - Howell Mountain, St. Helena, Oakville
• Sierra Foothills - Amador, El Dorado
• Paso Robles
• Lodi
• Mendocino
to name a few

Regional Characteristics
Zinfandel is famous for the delicious richness of its fruit. The character of Zinfandel, like that of any fine wine, is largely determined by the terroir. Zinfandel is a great wine tasting experience because of its diversity of styles.

The characteristics of Zinfandel vary from region to region. Taste the upfront core fruit, exotic spice and unmistakable white or black pepper that is not just a taste, but a sensation.

Meet the Winemakers! Email Richard Flores now to schedule an appointment: zapOgram@aol.com

And to get in the ZAP mode, take a look at this:

http://www.zinfandel.org/default.asp?n1=9&n2=251

» California overtakes France
16 december 2008, Decanter
American wine sales overtook French in the UK for the first time this year. Sales of American wine in the off-trade grew 5% to £781m in the year to November, while French wine sales fell 3% to £780m.

The figures, from analysts ACNielsen, show US volumes also increased. America now produces 15.6m cases against France's 14.5m - an increase of 3% compared with a drop of 7%. Ninety-five per cent of American wine is produced in California. Stewart Blunt of Nielsen said, 'France has traditionally had a lot in the under-£3 sector, with vin de pays and cheap Bordeaux. That chunk of the market has lost quite heavily over the past six months.
'While American wine is making progress, France has been sliding back, making the overtaking a bit easier.' France is now third in the wine consumption league table, with Australia first for the last five years, with 23% of the market. Italy is fourth, overtaken by California in 2003.

The news should come as no surprise - in January 2003 decanter.com reported, 'California is set to overtake France as the UK's second largest wine supplier'.
Crucial to the success of US wines is Californian rosé, which has become a hit with women in Britain. Sales of rosé went up by 17% in the year to October. French rosé has done badly, slipping by 9% in volume and 5% in value. John McLaren, UK director of the California Wine Institute said above all the Americans understand how to market their wines. 'The Californians do very well what the French don't do very well, which is to find out what the customer wants.' 'There is no doubt that some of the finest wines on earth are made in France, but also some of the finest wines in the world are now made in California.'

» Green Design in California Wineries
November 2008, California Wine Institute

Green design in California wineries

SAN FRANCISCO – California wineries are not only committed to making outstanding wines but to doing so in a environmentally responsible way. Waste reduction, farming without the use of synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers, water conservation, use of bio-diesel for tractors, and solar and wind energy have become almost as important to the winemakers in California as the wine itself. This new green consciousness is most evident in the actual winery buildings.

Wine tasters say “straw” to describe a pale shade of yellow in a wine, but at several California wineries, they mean this literally as bales of straw are used to build environmentally sound and efficient wineries. At the Ridge Vineyards Lytton Springs winery for instance, located  in Sonoma County, the barrelroom is made with 8 meter high straw bale walls that provide excellent insulation. At Dominus winery in Napa, the walls are only a steel frame with large black basalt and no mortar. Cool breezes flow in, heat does not.

Designed by award-winning architect, William Turnbull, the Long Meadow Ranch winery, in Napa, has built its facility consistent with its sustainable philosophy. Using the soil left over from digging their caves, they have constructed one of the largest rammed earth structures in North America. Thermally efficient, the building requires no mechanical cooling or heating to perform its function. Even the wooden beams for the roofing system were recycled from an old building.  The winery’s unique design earned it the prestigious international award for commercial interior design from the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

Solar, wind and geothermal energy is used by many of the California wineries to supply energy. Two hours north of San Francisco in the Mendocino wineregion, Fetzer Winery has constructed a solar array atop its winery bottling facility, capable of generating 1.1 million kilowatt hours of clean electricity annually – enough to offset more than 855 metric tons of CO2 emissions. Constellation, the largest US wine company is taking a a step further with the installation of the largest winery solar power energy system in the world at its ISO 9001:2000 certified Gonzales Winery, located in Monterey County. The one megawatt solar system will cover 17000 m2 of the main winery warehouse roof.  Immediate environmental benefits from this project include a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and an annually reduced carbon footprint equivalent to planting 1000 hectares of trees or taking more than 2,000 cars off the road.

Frog’s Leap recently complemented its existing solar energy field with geothermal energy. Utilizing an underground loop system of 20 wells, each almost 100 meters deep, the system maintains a constant temperature of 14-15 degrees Celsius. In the winter, water circulating within the sealed underground system absorbs heat from the earth and carries it to the geothermal unit where it is compressed to a higher temperature to provide heat to the building. In the summer, the system reverses and expels heat from the building to the cooler environment of the earth.   

The latest winery project that shows that design and green can go hand in hand is the new Hall winery in Napa, designed by world-famous architect Frank Gehry and scheduled for opening in 2010. The project encompasses 12000 m2 of space that will include modern wine production facilities and the restoration of an original stone winery building, built in 1885. The winery buildings will also incorporate 4000 m2 square feet of solar panels.  “With the artful combination of the historic and the new, the natural and the human-made,” Mr. Gehry said, “it is our intention that the new Hall Winery will be an experience that is harmonious with the beauty of the Napa Valley. We have a chance to make a difference, to create something that will stand the test of time”. The way a great California wine does.

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» New Consumer Website

WINE INSTITUTE PRESS RELEASE

September 3, 2008

WINERY EVENTS ABOUND THIS SEPTEMBER
FOR CALIFORNIA WINE MONTH

New Web Site - discovercaliforniawine.com - A Resource for Planning Wine Outings

SAN FRANCISCO – Grape stomps, wine tastings, bottle signings, eco-vineyard hikes, concerts, festivals and winemaking classes are some of the special events planned for California Wine Month which kicks off September 1, 2008.  Throughout the month, dozens of wineries and vineyards in California, along with restaurants, wine shops and supermarkets across the country, will offer wine lovers a multitude of ways to learn about and enjoy California’s vast array of diverse and high quality wines.  Listings of these public events can be found at Wine Institute’s new web site for consumers, www.discovercaliforniawine.com, where users can also plan trips using interactive regional wine maps, learn about making and growing wine and winegrapes, meet vintners and growers and much more.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has declared September 2008 California Wine Month for the fourth consecutive year, lauding the state's wine community as one of the largest and most successful wine producing regions in the world.  California's wineries and winegrape growers generate $19 billion in retail sales in the U.S., attract national and international tourists, and preserve natural resources by using innovative and environmentally friendly practices for winegrowing and winemaking.

"The Governor’s Proclamation recognizes the positive impact California wine has on the state, the nation and the world," said Robert P. (Bobby) Koch, President and CEO of Wine Institute.  "California Wine Month offers vintners and growers a unique opportunity to partner with retailers and restaurateurs nationwide, showcasing the state’s many wine regions, beautiful and sustainable vineyards, welcoming wineries and, of course, our outstanding wines.”

The Governor and First Lady Maria Shriver have also lent their support to California wine by appearing in a national TV campaign, along with wine and culinary personalities, to feature California’s outstanding wine, food and tourism.  The broadcast ad is the cornerstone of a five-year partnership between Wine Institute and the California Travel and Tourism Commission to promote the state’s wine and food offerings.

One of the largest events during the month will be a California Wine Rush Consumer Grand Tasting in New York that will "Explore the Regional Diversity of California Wines through Flavor, Sight and Sound.”  The event, presenting wines from more than 10 California regions from around the state takes place at Espace in Manhattan on September 10 from 5 – 7 pm, with ticket proceeds benefiting the Central Park Conservancy.

“California’s winegrape growers are proud to participate in this event and others planned for California Wine Month, bringing the many faces of California wine directly to consumers,” said Karen Ross, President of the California Association of Winegrape Growers, whose organization is supporting California Wine Month.

Trade partners planning activities for California Wine Month in September 2008 include: The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (special promotions and displays);  Safeway Stores, Vons and Pavilions (bottle signings and special displays in select stores); Costco; Beverages & More!; Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar; P.F. Chang's China Bistro (special California wine promotion with Paul Dolan Vineyards); Tavistock Restaurant Group; Harlem Vintage Wine Shop and Bar (in-store tastings); Morrell Wine (regional in-store tastings); Union Square Wines (in-store tastings and month-long promotions); and Zachy's Wine and Liquor (in-store tastings; special dinners).  Media and association partners include: Los Angeles Magazine, San Francisco Chronicle, Wall Street Journal and the California Restaurant Association.

Wine Institute is the association of 1,100 California wineries and wine-related businesses dedicated to public policy advocacy and enhancing the environment for the responsible consumption and enjoyment of wine.  California is the fourth largest wine producer in the world.  In the U.S., two out of every three bottles enjoyed are California wines.  Each year, nearly 20 million tourists visit wine regions throughout the state to explore and enjoy the wines, the cuisine and cultural offerings of California's signature industry.

» Celebrity Wines

Celebrity wines from California

Celebrity wines from the Golden State have reached a milestone in the U.S. marketplace as one out of every 100 bottles of wine sold in U.S. supermarkets is produced by or for the stars in sports or entertainment.

The entry of Trinchero Family Estates that is making Paul Newman's new line of wines released recently, and E. & J. Gallo's decision earlier this year to make and market wine under the Martha Stewart label (she is the first lady of culinary TV shows), have suddenly moved the category from its sub-niche market status into the mainstream wine market in the U.S.

Other California wineries that produce wines using the names and images of celebrities are Napa Valley based Nova Wines that makes Marylin Monroe wines, Graceland Cellars that makes Elvis Presley Fourth Edition Blue Suede Shoes Chardonnay and Celebrity Cellars, based in Sonoma, that produces wines for Madonna, The Rolling Stones, Kiss and Celine Dion. A key reason for expanded marketshare of celebrity wines is that celebrities themselves are driving the market by launching more "lifestyle" related products. Madonna's "wine club" for instance offers two bottles per month at €35 and concert discounts.

For some celebrities, just putting their name of the label is not enough, they want to actually make the wines themselves. Mario Andretti for instance, the former Formula One champion, is making Cabernet and Zinfandel from his vineyards in Napa Valley. Founding member of Fleetwood Mac, Mick Fleetwood first made a career of blending the right elements in music to fit the taste of his audience, and is now using the same insight with a California wine that already has captured several prestigious awards.

Probably the most famous celebrity in the California wine industry is governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Although he does not make wine himself, he has raised the interest in California wines by declaring the month of September as  “California Wine Month”, which means that many wine stores and supermarkets in the U.S. focus on California wine during that month. He and California’s First Lady, Maria Shriver, also appear in a television spot inviting visitors to experience California’s wine and food offerings.

» Napa Valley launches Napa Green Certified Winery Program
March 27, St. Helena Star

Napa Valley Vintners, the nonprofit trade association of more than 300 Napa Valley wineries, has launched Napa Green Certified Winery (NGCW), a comprehensive program to help reduce the carbon footprint and institute a set of green business practices for winery production facilities in Napa County.

After a successful pilot program in 2007, NGCW is now open to all wineries in Napa County, building on the region’s reputation for leadership in forward-thinking environmental programs.

The program is a Napa County-specific set of sustainable and green business practices unique to wineries, which uses the Association of Bay Area Governments’ (ABAG) Green Winery checklist as the certification method for NGCW because it is a consistent, credible and recognized program with a long track record.

NGCW, among other criteria, addresses water conservation, energy conservation, pollution prevention, and solid waste reduction elements. Certification through the Napa County Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the ABAG Green Business program results in a winery becoming a Napa Green Certified Winery. Wineries must maintain regulatory compliance to retain NGCW status and recertification is required every three years.

Shared resources

In what has become a cornerstone of the Napa Valley Appellation, shared resources will be the defining element of this program and what sets this apart from other regional green initiatives.

 The NVV will hold regular workshops on current and emerging topics related to sustainability and that support the NGCW program. Workshops will be open to the entire Napa Valley winemaking community. Resource assistance with issues such as greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction, environmentally preferable purchasing, social standards (human resources and employee training), communicating sustainability and more will be offered through the NGCW program.

The NGCW Program Resource Center (which will be located on the NVV Web site at www.napavintners.com) is a shared knowledge network that all Napa Valley wineries can access and contribute to.

The program’s benefits include not only conservation and stewardship of natural resources, but also helps wineries navigate the laws relating to climate protection and emissions reduction, helps consumers recognize businesses that go beyond compliance, provides a solid platform for educating consumers about sustainability and helps wineries realize economic benefits through implementation of green business practices. Ultimately, the certification provides the confidence to know the winery is operating in a highly sound environmentally fashion so as to allow winemakers to focus on innovation and making great Napa Valley wine.

There is no fee to participate in the program.

NGCW is the companion program to Napa Green Certified Land which was founded in 2003 and currently has 22,000 acres enrolled in the program. For more information about Napa Green, visit www.napavintners.com.

Climate change impacts

The impacts of climate change are generally thought of in three broad categories — increasing temperatures; changing precipitation patterns; and rising sea level. Those three things together will have varying regional impacts around the world. Californians are already seeing the signs in decreased rainfall and reductions in snow pack in the Sierras, and the likelihood of increasingly intense droughts.

The food processing sector is the largest energy user in the state of California and wineries account for the largest percentage of energy use in this sector. The average Napa Valley winery uses 6.5 gallons of water per gallon of wine. The transport, heating and treatment of water account for 20 percent of electricity use and 30 percent of natural gas use in the state. All of this energy use has an associated carbon footprint.

In the not too distant future regular business practices will include knowing your carbon footprint and having a climate action plan. Major retailers are already requesting this information from their vendors. AB32 — the California Global Warming Solutions Act — requires that the California Air Resources Board (CARB) develop regulations and market mechanisms that will reduce California’s greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 (a 25 percent decrease) and to 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. CARB is in the process of inventorying emissions throughout the state to determine which industries will be subject to mandatory reductions. The wine industry should prepare for emissions reporting and caps.

Businesses who want to take the lead should begin inventorying their carbon emissions, setting reduction targets and implementing phased plans to achieve those targets. Programs like Napa Green Certified Winery can help.

(Terry Hall is the communications director for the Napa Valley Vintners.)

» Exports reach almost $1 billion

SAN FRANCISCO — U.S. wine exports, 95 percent from California, reached a record high $951 million in 2007, an 8.6 percent jump from the previous year. Volume shipments in 2007 increased 12 percent to 453 million liters, compared to 2006. 

             “The long-term sales trend continues to be positive.  Over the last decade, U.S. and California wine exports increased 77 percent in value and were shipped to 125 countries,” said Joseph Rollo, Director of the Wine Institute International Department.

            “Despite competition from foreign producers, and protectionist tariffs, distribution restrictions and production subsidies that have maintained an unlevel playing field, California wines have continued to expand into new and existing markets,” said Robert P. (Bobby) Koch, President and CEO of Wine Institute.  “The signing of the U.S.-EC Wine Trade Agreement in 2006 has created a more stable trading environment for California vintners who are making continued investments to export wine.”

            About half of U.S. wine exports are shipped to the European Union, accounting for $474 million, followed by Canada, $234 million; Japan, $63 million; Switzerland, $26 million; and Mexico, $24 million. 

Wine Institute’s Trade Director for the United Kingdom, John McLaren, is optimistic about the future growth of California wine sales in his market.  “The United Kingdom is refreshingly enlightened and open-minded about California wines, and while it can be a tough market to break into, it is very welcoming to wines of genuine character and value.  The rich diversity and creativity of California wines, particularly in the growing mid-price sector, has found an enthusiastic audience here.”

Bulk wine sales to Europe have grown faster than bottled sales, due to the growing trend of producers shipping bulk wine abroad for bottling.  This trend allows brand owners to

Efficiently make price points in a very competitive wine market.  Total bulk table wine exports jumped 22 percent by volume to 169 million liters and grew 25 percent by value to $151 million.  Total branded bottled table wine exports rose 9.5 percent to 207 million liters and were up 3 percent in value to $635 million.

            Volume shipments to the European Union grew a healthy 7 percent in 2007 compared to 2006, but sales by value for these same shipments were slightly lower because of the growing shift to lower cost bulk wine shipments to these markets.  "A wider availability of competitively priced California wines that appeal to the European palate is key in improving California's market share by value,” said European Trade Director Paul Molleman.

            Exports have rebounded by 23 percent in Canada to $234 million.  Canada Trade Director Rick Slomka stated, “The combination of more favorable exchange rates, exciting new product introductions and higher marketing expenditures has resulted in strong growth and momentum for the California wine category in Canada.  Trade and consumers are re-discovering California wines aided by more retail promotions and media coverage.”

Other major growth markets include: South Korea, up 60 percent to $18 million; China, up 74 percent to $16 million; and Singapore, up 50 percent to $9 million.

"It is very encouraging to see China setting a solid, consistent growth pattern year after year. Despite the known challenges of the Chinese market, the ongoing opportunity this market represents now must not be overlooked. Indeed, the strong growth of the emerging and newly-developed markets throughout greater Asia makes this one of the most attractive regional wine markets worldwide," said Eric Pope, Regional Director, Emerging Markets.

Since 1985, the Wine Institute has served as the administrator of the Market Access Program, an export promotion program managed by the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service. Currently, 125 California wineries participate in the Wine Institute’s International Program

» California wineries to lower CO2 emissions
febr 2008, Wine Institute

California wineries to lower greenhouse gas emissions

The California Wine Institute and international partners develop a new greenhouse gas protocol and accounting tool for use by the global wine industry

SAN FRANCISCO – The California Wine Institute, the trade organization of California wineries, has developed, in cooperation with wine organizations from New Zealand, South Africa and Australia, an international “Greenhouse Gas Accounting Protocol”. With increased attention to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions, the goal of the project is to provide a free, easy-to-use, wine industry specific, greenhouse gas protocol and calculator that will measure the carbon footprints of winery and vineyard operations of all sizes.

“This Greenhouse Gas Accounting Protocol is a natural complement to the California wine industry’s commitment to environmental stewardship and leadership in sustainable winegrowing,” said Bobby Koch, president of the California Wine Institute.  “Our wineries, the majority of which are family owned, believe that tools such as this are important to the long-term viability and health of their businesses.” Although the wine industry and most other agricultural industries are considered low producers of carbon emissions, greenhouse gas issues are becoming more significant and this project will contribute towards the goal that the state of California has set for itself; to reach 1990 carbon emission levels by the year 2020.

“Though wine accounts for minimal air emissions, many California vintners and growers have been leaders in developing sustainable winemaking and winegrowing practices, and are advancing the concept of environmental responsibility for the wine industry,” said Paul Molleman, California Wine Institute’s European Director. “This tool will further help the wine community understand how and which operations impact air quality and help managers develop strategies for reducing emissions.”

The California Wine Institute and its global partnership of wine associations contracted Provisor Pt Ltd, a consultancy firm with expertise in resource accounting in the wine industry, to develop the international wine industry protocol, based on the “Greenhouse Gas Protocol” set by the World Resources Institute. Following this methodology, the group determined three “scopes” of emissions in the wine life cycle to be included in product footprint calculations.

Scope 1 – Direct emissions over which the company has direct control. Examples include fuel use for water heaters, frost fighting equipment, tractors, trucks, and harvesters.

Scope 2 – Indirect emissions from the production of purchased electricity, heat or steam.

Scope 3 – Indirect emissions from all activities that are purchased from other companies. Examples include production of purchased materials such as packaging material, transportation of purchased products to the winery and transportation of wine products to the stores.

This easy-to-use wine industry specific protocol and the excel-based calculator are  intended for use by the global wine industry and are being shared with other trade organizations to build widespread use of the tool as the industry standard. 

Established in 1934, the California Wine Institute is the trade organization of 1,100 California wineries. It represents 90 percent of all U.S. wine production and 95 percent of all U.S. wine exports. The site www.wineinstitute.org has more details about the greenhouse gas accounting tool as well as on sustainable farming in California.

» 2007 Harvest Excellent
12 november 2007, www.wineinstitute.org

CALIFORNIA VINTNERS PRAISE HIGH QUALITY 2007 WINEGRAPE HARVEST

Early Harvest, Extended Season, Lighter than Normal Crop

SAN  FRANCISCO, CA — California’s 2007 wine grape harvest began early, stalled mid-way due to cool weather, and finished in late October to vintner accolades.  A mild winter with below normal rainfall, coupled with a dry spring, led to early bud break.  Although cluster counts were high in most locations, a sparse berry set in spring resulted in loose grape bunches.  Additionally, berries were small, creating a greater skin to juice ratio, enhancing quality.  The California Department of Food and Agriculture’s latest wine grape crop forecast in October was 3.2 million tons, up less than one percent from 2006.

“The 2007 year is one of the better vintages in recent history,” said Vince Bonotto, Diageo Chateau & Estate Wines Vice President Vineyard Operations overseeing vineyards in Napa and Monterey.  “There was a lighter crop and yields were down from the past few years, but quality is extremely good,” he enthused.  Mark Gabrielli, Woodbridge Winery Vice President/General Manager in Woodbridge, was also excited about the vintage.  “The good news is that we are extremely pleased with the quality of the 2007 harvest.  Berry size was small, smaller than we have seen in more than 10 years, and the fruit developed intense varietal flavors with rich, mouth-filling tannins.”  Winemaker Ted Seghesio of Seghesio Family Vineyards in Sonoma also noted a crop smaller than previous vintages.  “Overall quality at this point appears to be excellent.  Deeply colored and dark-fruited young wines possessing balanced acidities promise a successful vintage.”

A cool, moderate growing season heated up the latter part of August, causing multiple varieties to ripen at the same time.  “At first it was run, run, get the grapes in before the sugars get too high,” commented Glenn Proctor of Ciatti Company in San Rafael.  When the weather turned cool the second week in September, harvest went on hold in many locations, allowing for a less hectic pace.  “The cooler weather and rainfall affected the entire state, although the North Coast saw the most significant precipitation,” said Proctor.  “It was like two crushes.  Everyone was running in the beginning, waiting in the middle, then running at the end to get the grapes off before the rains in October.”

“Around the first week in October, the jet stream dropped into Northern California, and we began experiencing periodic rain events every several days,” said Hal Huffsmith, Trinchero Family Estates Senior Vice President Vineyard Operations.  “Between the first of September and the first of October, the majority of our vineyards were harvested, while several properties in the Napa Valley were still being evaluated for flavor development in mid-October.”

“About 90 percent of the white grapes were in by the time it rained on the North Coast,” said Bill Turrentine of Turrentine Brokerage in Novato.  The thicker-skinned Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varieties are less susceptible to moisture and remained on the vine until late October, developing mature, intense flavors.  “Approximately 98 percent of the grapes were harvested by October 25.”

“In the interior Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys, the crop was average in size and above average in quality,” remarked Turrentine.  “In the Central Coast, it was about 35 percent below average in quantity and the quality is very promising.  The North Coast quality also looks very good and the quantity is about 10-15 percent below average.  2007 promises to be a good year with concentrated fruit.  Harvest started early but cool harvest temperatures delayed maturation and ripe, luscious flavors developed, often at lower sugar levels than usual.”

“The lower wine grape tonnage in 2007 will have a tightening affect on the market,” said Proctor. After the larger than normal 2005 vintage, the wine market has had plenty of supply.   “This will bring things back to a more balanced perspective.”

Accounting for two-thirds of all wine sold in the U.S, California wine sales in the U.S. reached another all-time high of 449 million gallons in 2006 with a retail value of $17.8 billion, according to wine industry consultant Jon Fredrikson, publisher of the Gomberg-Fredrikson Report.  “California wines are benefiting from the growing U.S. wine culture,” said Robert P. (Bobby) Koch, President and CEO of Wine Institute.  “More Americans are enjoying wine than ever before.  They can look forward to the exceptional quality of the 2007 vintage.”

» California's New Tourism Website

Planning a visit to California? This new website is a must when planning your trip. And the dollar is low, so GO !

Click here for the site

» September is California Wine Month
1 sept 2007, Wine Institute

Sacramento, California - Governor Schwarzenegger has declared September 2007 California Wine Month in a proclamation praising California's wine community for its contributions to the state's economy, lifestyle, tourism and environment. For full story, click here

» Fetzer receives major "green" award
24 july 2007, Environmentalleader

Fetzer Snags Sustainability and Waste Reduction Awards

Fetzer Vineyards has received the 2007 Best-of-the-Best Stratospheric Ozone Protection Award from the EPA which celebrates the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Montreal Protocol, a signature event in climate protection endorsed by 190 nations.

In addition, the California Integrated Waste Management Board has awarded Fetzer its 12th Waste Reduction Award Program award for reducing landfill waste through recycling and waste reduction programs that have made the winery a zero-waste facility.

Fetzer’s award notes the phasing out of methyl bromide, and the winery’s broad use of sustainable practices including organic farming of estate vineyards, integrated pest management, use of cover crops, composting and related vineyard practices, solar and other renewable energy usage, reducing waste and other Earth-Friendly practices.

In selecting Fetzer for the WRAP award, the CIWMB noted that Fetzer has reduced material hauled to landfills by 95 percent since 1990, representing the same amount of garbage that would have been produced by 17,000 homes.

» California becomes independent country
31-05-07, Wine Institute of California

SACRAMENTO, Calif.—May 30, 2007—California’s winegrowers declared the state an independent country where life is grape, citizens have the right to bear vines and Arnold Schwarzenegger can be president. The “nation,” whose credo is “One Nation Under Vines,” takes its rightful place alongside France, Italy and Spain as a leading wine-producing country. And its Declaration of Independence invites wine-lovers to visit onenationundervines.com to explore California’s vast wine country.

The announcement kicks off a national California wine country marketing campaign. The twist: the winegrape growers are the new country’s “ambassadors,” highlighting how growing conditions, experience and sustainable growing practices make a difference in creating world-class wines.

 “California is as varied, full of flavor and aged in tradition as any other country, and our growers are eager to tell that story,” said Karen Ross, President of the California Association of Winegrape Growers, the organization driving the independence initiative.  “By declaring our independence, we’re merely formalizing what we see on wine lists and wine shops nationwide: California is wine country.”

Diverse Regions, People and Wines

The immenseness of California’s wine country is a virtual secret to most. California’s more than 100 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) span six diverse winegrowing “states”—North Coast, Sierra Foothills, San Joaquin Valley, Sacramento Valley, Central Coast, and South Coast – that cover the nation from the beaches of San Diego to the redwoods and rivers of the northern border. 

“Our ideal climate, beautiful scenery, geographic diversity and grape growers and vintners of unparalleled expertise all combine to make our state the perfect place to produce some of the world’s finest wines,” said California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in a recent proclamation declaring September California Wine Month. “I join all Californians in applauding the vast number of people involved in producing our state’s extraordinary wines.”

The diversity of soil and microclimates means that California winegrowers can grow more than 50 varietals of wines – including luscious Chardonnays, spicy Zinfandels, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignons and a host of other interesting varietals including Tempranillo, Grenache and Mourvedre.

And just as California’s winegrapes are diverse, so are its more than 4,600 winegrape growers.  From fifth-generation growers who have “wine in their blood” to actors, athletes and entrepreneurs, they offer a diversity of backgrounds and ideas. 

Deep History, Tradition

The first grapes were planted in California nearly 250 years ago, and the winegrowers have since adapted to hardships and circumstances including Prohibition and phylloxera and the changing tastes of the American consumer. Today, winegrapes are grown on 522,000 acres in 47 of California’s 58 counties. California is the fourth largest producer of wine worldwide, and accounts for 90 percent of all U.S.-grown wine. And California wines are prominently displayed in their own section in wine shops and on wine lists side by side with other wine producing countries.

But California’s winegrowers haven’t forgotten their roots. Building on major trends and successful regional efforts, the California Association of Winegrape Growers and the Wine Institute joined together in 2002 to create the Code of Sustainable Winegrowing Practices, which allows growers and vintners to measure the adoption of environmentally sound, economically viable and socially responsible growing and winemaking practices.  The Code covers everything from habitat restoration and energy efficiency to interactions with employees, neighbors and local communities.

“I commend the California Association of Winegrape Growers for their leadership in building a platform of sustainable growing practices upon the many years of experience and new technology that have evolved in the wine industry, “ said A.G. Kawamura, Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture. “California has set a high standard for sustainable practices, one that sets itself apart in class and distinction.”

Click here to learn more about California’s wine country. And support the economy of the world’s newest nation by visiting your local wine shop, grocery store or restaurant and choosing a wine from California.

» Record high California Wine Exports
1-4-2007, wine institute
California wine exports jump 30% to $876 million in 2006. In 9 years, California doubled its exports. For full story, click here

» "Sideways" inspires California Wine Bar
17-01-2007, Decanter

Sideways, the 2004 Academy Award-winning wine-geek film, has inspired a new Californian wine bar.

Located in Solvang, Santa Barbara County, Tastes of the Valleys – a Sideways Wine Bar opened on 12 January. The name is licensed from Fox Searchlight Pictures.

Read on here

» California Barbera wins
21-12-2006, wijnplein

During the 2nd "International Barbera Competition" held in Piedmont, a California wine took 1st place in the foreign wine category. For full story, click here

» 06 excellent vintage for Sonoma County wines
13-11-2006, winebusiness.com

For Sonoma County grape growers, the 2006 growing season was arduous, with unusual weather patterns resulting in excessive botrytis rot, labor-intensive fieldwork and lower-than-average yields. Yet, 2006 finally gave way to a high-quality vintage with flavors and structure that remind many of the 2004 vintage.

For full report click here

» Here we go again: California - France 3-0
26-11-2006, decanter

Top 3 wines from California - The Grand Jury European, a collective of international wine experts, wanted to "right the wrongs" of Stephen Spurrier's recent Re-Judgment of Paris. Chairman Francois Mauss declared he was unhappy with Spurrier's celebratory recreation of the Judgement of Paris tasting in May this year, when California beat France. However, at this month's tasting, with all wines from the 1995 vintage, the outcome was yet again a victory for California wines, with the top 3 wines all from California. Can we now just lay it to rest: California and France both make great wines! For full story click here: http://www.decanter.com/news/98490.html

» New viticultural areas in California
06-09-2006, California Wine Institute

The total AVA (American Viticultural Area) count in California is now 107 as 8 new AVAs were added last month. We have listed the AVAs below, by region and county. Several AVAs are listed multiple times as they are located in multiple counties.

AVAs in California

 NORTHERN CALIFORNIA COAST

Lake County

1.   Benmore Valley

2.   Clear Lake

3.   Guenoc Valley

4.   High Valley

5.   North Coast

6.   Red Hills Lake County Marin County

5.   North Coast

Mendocino County

7.   Anderson Valley

8.   Cole Ranch

9.   Covelo 10. Dos Rios

11. McDowell Valley 12.  Mendocino

13. Mendocino Ridge

5.   North Coast

14. Potter Valley

15. Redwood Valley

16. Yorkville Highlands

Napa County

17. Atlas Peak

18. Chiles Valley

19. Diamond Mountain

20. Howell Mountain

21. Los Carneros

22. Mount Veeder

23. Napa Valley

5.   North Coast

24. Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley

25. Oakville

26. Rutherford

27. Saint Helena

28. Spring Mountain District

29. Stags Leap District

30. Wild Horse Valley

31. Yountville Solano County 5.   North Coast 32. Solano County Green Valley 33. Suisun Valley 30. Wild Horse Valley Sonoma County 34.  Alexander Valley 35. Bennett Valley 36. Chalk Hill 37. Dry Creek Valley 38. Knights Valley 21. Los Carneros 5.   North Coast 39. Northern Sonoma 40. Rockpile 41. Russian River Valley 42. Sonoma Coast 43. Sonoma County Green Valley 44. Sonoma Mountain 45. Sonoma Valley

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA COAST

Alameda County

46. Central Coast

47. Livermore Valley 48. San Francisco Bay Contra Costa County

46. Central Coast 48. San Francisco Bay

Monterey County

49. Arroyo Seco

50. Carmel Valley

46. Central Coast

51. Chalone

52. Hames Valley

53. Monterey

54. San Antonio

55. San Bernabe

56. San Lucas

57. Santa Lucia Highlands

San Benito County

46. Central Coast

51. Chalone

58. Cienega Valley

59. Lime Kiln Valley

60. Mount Harlan

61. Pacheco Pass

62. Paicines

63. San Benito

48. San Francisco Bay

San Francisco County

43. Central Coast

48. San Francisco Bay

San Luis Obispo County

64. Arroyo Grande Valley

46. Central Coast

65. Edna Valley

66. Paso Robles

67. Santa Maria Valley

68. York Mountain

San Mateo County

46. Central Coast

48. San Francisco Bay

69. Santa Cruz Mountains

Santa Barbara County

46. Central Coast

67. Santa Maria Valley

70. Santa Rita Hills

71. Santa Ynez Valley

Santa Clara County

46. Central Coast

48. San Francisco Bay

72. San Ysidro District

73. Santa Clara Valley

69. Santa Cruz Mountains

Santa Cruz County

74. Ben Lomond

46. Central Coast

48. San Francisco Bay

69. Santa Cruz Mountains

SACRAMENTO VALLEY/
SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY

Fresno County

75. Madera

Madera County

75. Madera

Sacramento County

76. Alta Mesa

77. Borden Ranch

78. Clarksburg

79. Consumnes River

80. Jahant

81. Lodi

82. Sloughhouse

San Joaquin County

77. Borden Ranch

83. Clement Hills

79. Consumnes River

81. Lodi

84. Mokelumne River

85. River Junction

Solano County

78. Clarksburg

Stanislaus County

86. Diablo Grande

87. Salado Creek

Yolo County

88. Capay Valley

78. Clarksburg

89. Dunnigan Hills

90. Merritt Island

SIERRA NEVADA

Amador County

91. California Shenandoah Valley

92. Fiddletown

93. Sierra Foothills

Calaveras County

93. Sierra Foothills

El Dorado County

94. California Shenandoah Valley

95. El Dorado

96. Fair Play

93. Sierra Foothills

Mariposa County

93. Sierra Foothills

Nevada County

93. Sierra Foothills

Placer County

93. Sierra Foothills

Tuolumme County

93. Sierra Foothills

Yuba County

97. North Yuba

93. Sierra Foothills

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Los Angeles County

98. Malibu-Newton Canyon

99. Saddle Rock-Malibu

Riverside County

100. Cucamonga Valley

101. South Coast

102. Temecula

San Bernardino County

100. Cucamonga Valley

San Diego County

103. Ramona Valley

104. San Pasqual Valley

101. South Coast

OTHER NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Humboldt County

105. Willow Creek

Siskiyou County

106. Seiad Valley

Trinity County

107. Trinity Lakes

105.  Willow Creek

» Michael Mondavi buys Carneros Creek
21-08-2006, Decanter
Michael Mondavi and his family are buying the Francis Mahoney Estate Winery - formerly Carneros Creek Winery – in southern Napa Valley, from Francis and Kathleen Mahoney.

They have also purchased the 109 hectare Aetna Springs Vineyard in Pope Valley, within the Napa Valley appellation.

The Carneros Creek sale includes about 10 hectares of land, including some vineyards, but not the bulk of Mahoney's 65 hectares of vineyards in Carneros.

Mahoney will continue to produce his Mahoney Vineyards and Fleur de California wines at the winery, while Mondavi told decanter.com that he will make his I'M, Oberon, Bocce and Hangtime wines, up to around 45,000 cases in total. For full article, please click here

» Paul Dolan new Chairman California Wine Institute
June 28, 2006, wine institute

Paul Dolan, partner in Mendocino Wine Company, was elected Wine Institute's board chairman for 2006-2007.

A native of Oakland, California, Dolan earned a master's degree in enology from California State University, Fresno before going to work at Fetzer Vineyards. In his 27 years there, he helped oversee the transition from a small, family-owned winery to a global company. Dolan is a fourth-generation winemaker descended from winemakers at the original Italian Swiss Colony and the winemaking Concannon family. As Wine Institute chairman, Dolan wants to continue the organization's leadership in Sustainable Winegrowing.

To read on, please click here

» California beats Bordeaux

California wines have done it again as they beat their French counterparts in a blind tasting. In 1976 in Paris, journalist Steven Spurrier thought it would be fun to compare the best French wines with the best California wines. During this blind tasting, with most of the judges from France, California won top spot in both the red and the white categories. The reputation of California as producer of world-class wines was established overnight.

Last week, exactly 30 years later, Mr Spurrier and a group of wine experts, including famous wine critics Hugh Johnson, Jancis Robinson, Michel Bettane and Michael Broadbent recreated this famous tasting, which was held simultaneously in London and in Napa Valley, California. And the unthinkable happened: California came out on top again.

Against all expectations the California Cabernets – Ridge Monte Bello 1971, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars 1973, Mayacamas 1971, Heitz 1970 and Clos du Val 1972 – were all voted superior to their rivals in Bordeaux, which included the 1970 Château Mouton-Rothschild, Château Haut-Brion 1970, Château Montrose 1970 and Château Leoville Las Cases 1971.

The scores from London and California were simply added and the totals announced. 'So California wins!', Spurrier said, to laughter and applause. Some predicted that the older Californians would struggle to hold their own against the French wines, but last week’s event proved the opposite to be the case, as the best five wines in the tasting were all from California.  

The 1976 tasting convinced people around the world that California made top wines. The 2006 event not only proves that California is top of its class when it comes to making wine, it is also a confirmation that California wines have the ability to age gracefully, just like their French counterparts.

» California Wine Month

Governor Schwarzenegger proclaimes September California wine month. For more details click here

» Cultwinery Screaming Eagle sold
22-03-2006, winebusiness.com

Cultwinery Screaming Eagle, the tiny winery producing one of Napa Valley's highly sought "cult" cabernets, has been sold at a price that could reach $30 million, according to Wine Spectator's online edition. For full story, please click here

» California Harvest 05 update
16-02-2006, decanter

California crushed a record 4.3m ton of grapes in the 2005 harvest, 35% more than in 2004. Good thing is that the large crop was excellent quality. California expects a very good vintage, much like 1997. Having a good supply of high-quality wine to sell into a growing market is a good thing. Bottom line: the glass is half-full even after a large harvest. To read on, click here

» New hitmovie about California wine
16-02-2006, from ground to glass

After Oscar-winning movie Sideways, "From Ground to Glass" is the newest movie about California wine, featuring winemaking luminaries from California, including Warren Winiarski, Joel Peterson and Paul Draper. For full story, click here

» Decanter recommends 2002 Cabs from California
02-02-2006, Decanter

For more information, click here

» High quality California harvest 2005

For more information, click: here