We are beyond thrilled to be the FIRST retailer on the East Coast working with SIP Certified. SIP Certified addresses sustainable wine growing practices on every level, from labor to agriculture – from energy conservation to water quality. It is a way for consumers to know they’re buying sustainable wines that give back to the land and community.
SIP values social responsibility– competitive wages, medical insurance, training, and education for their employees, water management– reduced/recycled water in the vineyards and winery, safe pest management– beneficial insects, using raptors and plant enriching cover crops to keep vineyards healthy, energy efficiency– using alternative fuels and energy sources like solar and wind; minimal tractor usage; and enhanced insulation in winery, habitat– creating wildlife corridors and preserving open space, and ethical business practices– treating employees and community with care and respect.
SIP is a nonprofit vineyard team comprised of a progressive group of wine grape growers. They wrote the first assessment for sustainable wine growing in 1996. In the early 2000s they developed a challenging certification program in which a winery has to receive a grade of 85% or higher to be SIP Certified. Halter Ranch, for example, is 100% SIP Certified.
SIP has been certifying sustainability since 2008, and is always evolving. They are dedicated to protecting the people and the planet by supporting sustainable wine growing practices. Look for the SIP Certified logo (shown above) to shop sustainably.