Sustainability

Cover Crops such as bell beans, clover, oats, barley, peas, vetch and rye are used to prevent soil erosion and to add organic matter that sustains the healthy balance of microbes and improves friability and moisture retention. They also encourage beneficial insects to thrive in the vineyard and outcompete other pests.

Composting is an integral part of our farm plan, as it offers a rich and diverse set of nutrients for the soil.

Integrated Pest Management consists of bird boxes stationed throughout the vineyards, attracting bluebirds and owls which feed on pest populations. We also have raptor perches to encourage hawks which mitigate gopher damage.

Natural Waterways have been established to maximize conservation by improving natural water flow. In the lowest lying areas of the property, natural drainage has been restored by replacing grapevines with native grasses.

Deficit Irrigation is used to minimize water use and restrict vine growth in order to produce low-yielding, intensely flavored fruit. In years where we see sufficient winter rains, we are even able to dry farm.