tomatoes from the garden at etude, used by employees and donated to napa food bank

Sustainability at Etude

We believe sustainable farming results in better, higher quality wine, and ensures the viability of our estate for generations to come.

woman harvesting tomatoes in the etude garden

specific wildflowers are grown to encourage pollinators as a sustainability tactic

designated open grass field adjacent to vineyard for sustainability

dandelions in the vineyard attract pollinators

wild mustard in vineyard to attract pollinators

sheep are used in vineyard to mow the weeds and grass

Holistic Farming Practices

At Etude, we believe wines are expressive of the place in which they are grown.

With this belief comes a commitment to a holistic winegrowing approach -- nurturing the soil, respecting the native ecosystems, and always working to reduce our environmental impact.

We are mindful of our role as stewards of the land, and we adhere strictly to sustainable agriculture practices that enable us to farm in concert with the surrounding environment.

Preserving Wildlife Habitats

In the development of the vineyards at Grace Benoist Ranch, native Oak and Bay trees were retained to protect nearby waterways. Twelve miles of wildlife corridors were incorporated in the planning of the vineyard planting to preserve riparian habitats and the natural migration of wildlife. Naturally occurring wetlands were protected and an erosion control plan was implemented to protect nearby waterways.

the natural habitat of the land was preserved as the vineyard was developed

Wild Turkey

Native to North America and prevent on the Etude estate vineyards, it's common to see 20 or more flocked together, sampling the grapes.

Sun Cup

Part of the Evening Primrose family, the sun cup is prevalent in spring and early summer. The bright yellow petals add color to the vineyards.

Bay Laurel

Native to California, the bay laurel trees found throughout our vineyards, have a distinct aroma that is strongest after a rain or on a moist, foggy day.

Chamomile

You will find Chamomile in big colonies throughout the vineyard, creating a blanket of white flowers in spring, though only for a brief time.

Sustainability Certifications

CERTIFIED CALIFORNIA SUSTAINABLE WINEGROWING is a third party certification program that promises the adoption of practices that are environmentally sound, socially equitable, and economically viable.

The FISH FRIENDLY FARMING PROGRAM is a voluntary certification program for grape growers who implement land management practices that help restore and sustain fish habitat on new property and improve water quality.

NAPA GREEN CERTIFIED LAND is a certification program that promotes the adoption of practices that minimize erosion and soil loss, reduce harmful inputs and associated run-off, conserve water resources and restore local waterways.

The NAPA GREEN CERTIFIED WINERY program requires the adoption of measures that conserve water resources, increase energy efficiency, prevent waste, and encourage employee engagement on the path to sustainability.

group of people enjoying a wine tasting at Etude

Visit Us

Visit Our Carneros Tasting Room To Learn More About Our Sustainable Practices

From the employee garden to water reclamation, our staff are always excited to share details about their favorite sustainable practice. As well as their favorite wines, of course!

Book a Tasting