What is Organic Wine Farming?

At Ram’s Gate Winery, our 28-acre estate is more than a place where we grow, harvest, ferment, bottle—and even serve—our wine collections. 

It is a place where we place a significant focus on sustainable farming practices. 

This approach is our pledge to protect the environment while producing high-quality, sustainable wines now and going forward as organic farmers. 

Does that make our wines organic? Not yet. But it is a start. 

As we continue our growth towards becoming fully organic over the next few years, our dedication to our fully sustainable craft will endure, so we can protect our planet, our people, and our collective future. 

Taking a Step in the Right Direction Using Organic Farming Practices

The National Organic Program is run by the United States Department of Agriculture, which sets the standards for certification of organic foods in the U.S. 

Grapes grown under the principles of organic farming is what give it the designation. 

That means no artificial chemical fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides and herbicides.  

At Ram’s Gate, our entire staff spends a considerable amount of time re-evaluating our growing processes, and thoughtfully focusing on the land and how we nurture and honor our vines. 

Since 2015, we have carried the Certified Sustainable Vineyard designation administered by the California Association of Winegrape Growers and the Wine Institute.

It is one of our most prized designations and one we work tirelessly to maintain.  

What is Ram’s Gate Winery Doing to Advance Its Sustainability?

Since 2018, our Ram’s Gate vineyards have also been joined by flocks of sheep that are the essential workers behind our campaign to not only remain sustainable but reach an organic designation.

As Food & Wine magazine explained in a behind the scenes article with our Director of Winemaking, Joe Nielsen, droves of sheep arrive in early spring to naturally weed, mow, and fertilize the vineyards—removing the need for high-tech machinery, chemicals, and synthetic herbicides that would do the same. 

This provides many benefits, including saved time and money, and—more importantly—a reduction in Ram’s Gate’s environmental footprint using eco-friendly farming, landscaping, grounds maintenance, and fire protection. 

With fewer passes from tractors and farm machinery, we are lowering greenhouse gas emissions, with the added benefit of the sheep droppings serving as a natural, chemical-free fertilizer. 

Outside of their environmental attributes, the most important part of the flock arriving each spring is the adorable factor. 

To learn more about Ram’s Gate and our wine collection, contact us today, or make a reservation for one of our wine tasting experiences to see our sustainable farming practices in action!