2021 CALIFORNIA GREEN MEDAL AWARD WINNERS
Watch this video compilation and learn more about all 2021 winners!
Given to the vineyard or winery that excels in the three “Es” of sustainability — Environmentally sound, socially Equitable and Economically viable practices.
O’NEILL VINTNERS & DISTILLERS
O’Neill Vintners and Distillers, located in California’s Inland Valley, is the recipient of the Leader Award, given to a vineyard or winery that excels in the three “Es” of sustainability — Environmentally sound, socially Equitable and Economically viable practices. As an industry leader, O’Neill Vintners and Distillers has an overarching belief that sustainability is the right thing to do for everyone’s future. They committed to making a real impact, not just in sustainable farming, but also by ensuring a well-rounded, diverse workforce with scholarship and internship opportunities to advance Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) representation. The company’s humanitarian mindset translates into its relationships with the community as well. During the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, O’Neill Vintners and Distillers made and distributed hand sanitizer to local first responders and hospitals. Other examples of leadership in practice are installing a new BioFiltro worm farm and recycling over 43 million gallons of water for field irrigation. With multiple third-party environmental and sustainability certifications, including Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing, California Certified Organic Farmers and British Retail Consortium; innovative research projects; advancements in BIPOC representation; and a long-term commitment to sustainability through capital improvements in solar, water, and soil, O’Neill Vintners and Distillers has demonstrated that sustainability is the ultimate expression of its commitment to people, to the planet and to profit.
Given to the vineyard or winery that best demonstrates Environmental Stewardship through maximized environmental benefits from implementing sustainable practices.
SHANNON RIDGE FAMILY OF WINES
Shannon Ridge Family of Wines, based in Lake County, is the recipient of the Environment Award, given to the vineyard or winery that best demonstrates Environmental Stewardship through maximized environmental benefits from implementing sustainable practices. Through initiatives such as “Project Ovis,” the family is implementing a combination of sustainable, organic and regenerative farming practices, utilizing livestock like sheep, chickens and cows in their vineyards and non-crop areas. The sheep have reduced the need to mow by 500% and the use of gas-powered weed eaters has been nearly eliminated. Shannon Ridge Family of Wines strives to bring balance to its farming system through the promotion of beneficial worms and insects and the creation of natural crop protection materials from compost to soil teas. With a commitment to data collection and analysis, the company shares both its successes and failures with the greater wine industry. As one of the largest employers in Lake County, Shannon Ridge Family of Wines contributes to a local homeless shelter and an annual wine auction for local charities and scholarship fund for local students, participates in local farmers markets and educates community members on their sustainable farming practices. Currently certified to Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing, Fish Friendly Farming and LODI RULES, Shannon Ridge Family of Wines is soon to be one of the largest certified organic, mountain-grown vineyards in the U.S. by fall 2021.
Given to the vineyard or winery that is a Good Neighbor and Employer using the most innovative practices that enhance relations with employees, neighbors and/or communities.
BOISSET COLLECTION
Boisset Collection, headquartered in Napa Valley, is the recipient of the Community Award, given to the vineyard or winery that is a good neighbor and employer using the most innovative practices that enhance relations with employees, neighbors and/or communities. Boisset Collection stands apart for its commitment to its local community. This commitment is demonstrated through the care and support provided to its employees during times of crisis, the provision of educational opportunities and resources and its investments and donations to charitable endeavors that benefit the broader community. Boisset Collection educates its community and customers about sustainability through company-supported initiatives and curated guest experiences including tours through its renowned Biodynamic® gardens. In March 2020, Boisset Collection premiered JCB LIVE, an online series that has featured over 175 guests including vintners, growers, community leaders, activists, philanthropists and more. In 2020, through the production and sale of two wines, a donation of over $40,000 was given to support out-of-work sommeliers as well as scholarship funds from the Association of African American Vintners Scholarship Fund and Wine Unify. Boisset Collection’s goal is to donate over $140,000 in 2021 to similar organizations. With a commitment to progress and a passion for diversity, Boisset Collection is driving forward positive change for both its employees and community.
Given to the vineyard or winery that best demonstrates Smart Business through efficiencies, cost savings and innovation from implementing sustainable practices.
TRINCHERO FAMILY ESTATES
Trinchero Family Estates, located in Lodi and Napa Valley, is the recipient of the Business Award, given to the vineyard or winery that best demonstrates smart business through efficiencies, cost savings and innovation from implementing sustainable practices. The family and staff at Trinchero Family Estates believe that they have a responsibility to their customers, employees, partners, and communities to take meaningful actions to reduce their environmental impact and to incorporate sustainability into their business decisions. Trinchero Family Estates have reduced water use and maximized water reuse at production facilities and in the vineyards. They also minimized waste generated by its facilities, while striving to achieve a zero waste to landfill status. By reducing energy, fuel consumption and related greenhouse gas emissions; through conservation programs, facility, and package design; and the use of alternative energy installations, Trinchero Family Estates has positively impacted its triple bottom line. Its Guiding Environmental Policy has six commitments including continuing its long history of sustainable farming practices, minimizing water usage, waste generation, fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and integrating environmental responsibility into its supply chain. By acting on these commitments, Trinchero Family Estates has shown that sustainability can be good for business.
2021 SPONSORS
JUDGING PANEL FOR 2021 AWARDS
- Allison Jordan, Executive Director, California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance
- Anna Brittain, Executive Director, Napa Green
- Beth Vukmanic, Executive Director, Vineyard Team
- Cyril Penn, Editor in Chief, Wine Business Monthly
- David Glancy, Master Sommelier, San Francisco Wine School
- Frances Knapczyk, Program Director, Napa Resource Conservation District
- Karen Block PhD, Director of Development of Energy, UC Davis Viticulture and Enology
- Stephanie Bolton, PhD, Research and Education Director, Lodi Winegrape Commission
- Mike Taylor, Director of Adult Beverages, Nugget Market, Inc.
- Sandra Taylor, President and CEO, Sustainable Business International LLC