Vine Times

News from the Sonoma County Winegrowers WINTER 2016

IN THIS ISSUE …

President’s Report...... 2

Marketing News...... 6-7

Sustainability Update...... 9

Grower Programs...... 11

Sponsor Listings...... 12

Community Recognition . . .13-14 Sangiacomo Vineyard Sangiacomo credit: Photo

Proud recipient of ’s highest environmental honor, the 2016 Governor’s Environmental & ANOTHER SENSATIONAL HARVEST Economic Leadership Award IN SONOMA COUNTY!

Page 6: With the last grapes picked and delivered to local wineries in mid-October, Sonoma 10th Anniversary County is now celebrating another successful harvest season. The 2016 vintage will of Grape Camp be remembered for what didn’t happen - as it was a relatively stress-free year with ideal growing conditions and weather, including adequate rainfall that replenished the Page 9: aquifers after several years of drought, no major threats from frost in the spring, and New Sustainability moderate temperatures throughout the summer with only a few days of heat spikes. Manager Thank you, Mother Nature! From all reports, 2016 has produced an outstanding, sensational crop in terms of qual- ity, flavors, etc. that has excited our winemaker partners. This vintage has also turned out to be an average year in terms of yield, and that’s true across the board for most varieties around the county. Page 10: All the credit for this year’s exceptional quality goes to you, our grape growers, who Sonoma County Grape work tirelessly year ‘round, day and night, to ensure we farm and grow the best wine- Growers Foundation grapes possible. Cheers to you! All of us at the Sonoma County Winegrape Commission extend our best wishes to you and your family this holiday season. Hope you have wonderful New Year. Page 15: Relive the excitement of harvest with our online tracker at SCW Launches www.sonomawinegrape.org/harvest Groundbreaking Video Series

SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 1 12/19/16 4:09 PM PRESIDENT’S LETTER PRESIDENT’S LETTER

PLEASE AND THANK YOU VINE TIMES: News from the Sonoma County Winegrowers BY KARISSA KRUSE 2016/2017 COMMISSIONERS Kevin Barr (Chairman) Joe Dutton (Vice Chairman) As I drive around Sonoma County, I am so excited by the Mark Sanchietti (Treasurer) number of “Sonoma County Sustainable” signs that I see John Balletto popping up along Hwy 12, Dry Creek, Westside Road, Duff Bevill Bennett Valley, River Road and throughout the county. I Doug McIlroy literally let out an audible cheer when I see one. Yes, I cheer the fact that so many of you in the grape growing communi- George Martinelli ty have stepped up and committed to our sustainability goal. Bret Munselle More importantly, I celebrate that we have come together as Glenn Proctor a grape growing community to work in collaboration to po- Steve Sangiacomo sition Sonoma County as a sustainable farming region, a title and leadership position that is unparalleled anywhere in the Ray Johnson (Public Member at Large) world. I am proud that we are working together, rather than ALTERNATES in competition with each other, to share the farming story Domenic Carinalli of Sonoma County. It is a story about families who farm, about stewardship, about a love of the land, about caring for Anna Darden each other, our neighbors, our employees and about giving Marissa Ledbetter back to this great place where we all live and call home. Richard Mounts Together we are creating a brand for Sonoma County grapes, Vickie Mulas which are the foundation for so many wonderful Sonoma Mark Pasternak County wines. Brad Petersen Today, 7 out of every 10 vineyards have joined us in the sustainability initiative by completing the sustainability assessment and many of you have also become certified. I would like to THANK all Dan Rotlisberger of you for engaging in this commitment. It matters. It matters for our role in the local community Rich Schaefers and for our brand on the world stage. What you are doing counts. For the remaining 30%, I send a Brent Young big PLEASE and invite you to join the effort and collaborate with us to make Sonoma County the Rhonda Smith (Public Member at Large) first 100% sustainable grape growing region in the nation. If you haven’t engaged because of time or money, please reach out to us at the Winegrape Commission, because we can help. If you don’t believe that being a part of this effort matters, I would love to meet with you personally and share STAFF my experience and what I am seeing around the world and how this initiative is making a difference. Karissa Kruse I would implore that the best way to preserve agriculture in Sonoma County and grape growing over President the long term is to be able to provide one common message about our farming practices through sus- 707-522-5863 tainability. There is strength in our collaboration. There is power in “Sonoma County Sustainable”. Please join your peers and the rest of the grape growing community. Let’s do this together. Kate Piontek V.P of Operations 707-522-5868 TOP FIVE REASONS TO JOIN OUR Sean Carroll Director of Marketing & Communications SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE: 707-522-5865 Emily Farrant 1. It is the best way to ADD VALUE TO YOUR GRAPES AND Sustainability Manager VINEYARD. 707-522-5851 Andriana Duckworth 2. WINERIES ARE REQUESTING AND PAYING MORE FOR Relationship & Program Manager CERTIFIED SUSTAINABILE GRAPES. 707-522-5867 3. CONSUMERS want to SUPPORT WINES MADE FROM Lori Petersen SUSTAINABLE GRAPES! Bookkeeper 707-522-5852 4. IT MATTERS LOCALLY. Denise Moore 5. IT JUST TAKES A PHONE CALL TO GET STARTED. Call Executive Assistant Emily Farrant, our new Sustainability Manager at (707) 522-5851. 707-522-5864 Robert LaVine Sustainability Consultant continued on page 3

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 2 12/19/16 4:09 PM PRESIDENT’S LETTER

VINE TIMES: PRESIDENT’S LETTER • 2016 Sonoma Wine Country Weekend (SWCW) Auction: At News from the Sonoma County Winegrowers continued from page 3 this year’s wine auction there was an dedicated auction lot for the Foundation – ‘The 3 Steves’ (Steve Sangiacomo, Steve Dutton and 2016/2017 COMMISSIONERS OTHER WINEGROWER UPDATES Steve Page). This auction lot raised $120,000 for the SCGGF, our biggest fundraiser to date and one of the biggest auction lots during Kevin Barr (Chairman) Harvest Update SWCW. These funds are helping us get the SCGGF established Joe Dutton (Vice Chairman) and will support some of the initial pilot program ideas. THANK It’s over. It was Fast and Furious. It was an average year, but expected YOU STEVE, STEVE and STEVE! Mark Sanchietti (Treasurer) total tonnage is above last year county-wide. Grape quality was excellent. John Balletto I hope you are all getting some time to relax now, get caught up, and • Employee Feedback Sessions: From March through October, the Duff Bevill most importantly, do your sustainability assessment! SCGGF conducted three employee feedback sessions and met with over 28 employees from vineyard management companies and Doug McIlroy Sonoma County Grape Growers Foundation (SCGGF) individual grape growers to learn and better understand firsthand George Martinelli This past January we relaunched the SCGGF to focus specifically on what the resource needs are for ag employees and their families. Bret Munselle supporting our agricultural employees and their families. The goal of This learning will help us develop meaningful pilot programs for Glenn Proctor the foundation is to work collaboratively with other organizations in our vineyard employees. A big thank you to Rey Sanchez of Bevill Vineyard Management for being our translator for these sessions! Steve Sangiacomo the community to provide critical services and resources in the areas of • Community Planning Summit: On November 14th, the SCGGF Ray Johnson (Public Member at Large) affordable housing, childcare, healthcare, and education. These are areas in which an individual farmer convened over 75 community ALTERNATES may not be able to access or organizations to join us in a Domenic Carinalli afford the support, but by cre- Sonoma County community leaders and contributors came together for the ground “roll up your sleeves” planning breaking ceremony of Ortiz Plaza, including George Ortiz (far right), a leading Anna Darden ating partnerships in the com- summit to identify potential munity, the SCGGF can act advocate for California farmworkers for 50 years and whom the project’s name is pilot programs in the areas of Marissa Ledbetter as a community convener and honoring. affordable housing, childcare, Richard Mounts bridge from the non-profit/ healthcare and education. It Vickie Mulas public support organizations was a great day for the com- Mark Pasternak to our employees and their munity to come together, use the learning from the employee Brad Petersen families. We want Sonoma County to be the region of feedback sessions and develop Dan Rotlisberger choice for Ag employees to live potential programs that will Rich Schaefers and work. Some highlights to make a real impact for our ag Brent Young date: employees and their families. Stay tuned to learn about the Rhonda Smith (Public Member at Large) • Management & Funding: The board of directors exciting outcomes from this planning summit. STAFF of both organizations agreed to a Management Sustainability Outreach Karissa Kruse Services Agreement with President the Sonoma County At our annual Dollars & 707-522-5863 Winegrowers to manage $ense meeting last January, I the SCGGF. The SCGGF has its own budget that is comprised committed to continuing our outreach and representation of Sonoma Kate Piontek of donations, fundraising and grants, which are separate from the County Grape Growers and our sustainability leadership. Here are a few V.P of Operations assessments collected from grape growers that fund the Sonoma highlights: 707-522-5868 County Winegrape Commission. • In August, I presented alongside Allison Jordan from CSWA and Julien Gervreau from Jackson Family Wines at the Global Sean Carroll • Ortiz Family Plaza Funding: This past May, the Foundation met with Chris Paige from California Human Development and was Sustainability Summit in New Orleans. The Global Sustainability Director of Marketing & Communications made aware that a funding gap was delaying the construction Summit is sponsored by the Grocery Manufacturing Association 707-522-5865 of Ortiz Family Plaza, a 30-unit affordable housing community and Food Marketing Institute. We shared the sustainability story Emily Farrant dedicated for agricultural workers and their families. Knowing from a California, Sonoma County and winery perspective. It received a lot of positive feedback from the retailers, marketers and Sustainability Manager the importance of affordable housing for our vineyard workers, we reached out to the local wine community and raised nearly innovators in the room. 707-522-5851 $100,000 to ensure construction of this first-of-its-kind affordable • In September, I presented a keynote address at the annual Wharton Andriana Duckworth housing project in Sonoma County. Closing this funding gap, Women in Business dinner. It was so much fun to go back to Relationship & Program Manager allowed access to over $10 million in USDA-directed money for Wharton and share my story and inspire the next generation of affordable ag housing. Those who generously responded to support women in business to find a career that they are truly passionate 707-522-5867 this project with a financial donation included: the Balletto Family, about. Working for grape growers and marketing a premium wine Lori Petersen Lasseter Family Winery, Rodney Strong Wine Estates, The Rubin region was a big departure from the investment banking and con- Bookkeeper Family of Wines, Sangiacomo Family, and Vino Farms, LLC. sulting career paths they typically hear about. 707-522-5852 Additional financial support was generously donated by winery • I also presented on a sustainability panel with CSWA and New partners, including Jackson Family Wines. Zealand representatives, moderated by Chris Savage from E&J Denise Moore Gallo Winery, at the FIVS conference in Ottawa, Canada. We dis- Executive Assistant cussed trends in global sustainability. Other wine regions continue 707-522-5864 to be inspired by our sustainability progress! Robert LaVine Sustainability Consultant

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 3 12/19/16 4:09 PM PRESIDENT’S LETTERSPOTLIGHT COMMISSIONER NEWS

PRESIDENT’S LETTER • FIRST OF ITS KIND VIDEOS in partnership with Food & Wine SONOMA COUNTY WINEGROWERS Magazine. We are in the middle of releasing a series of “Back Roads continued from page 3 and Back Stories” videos that were hosted by Ray Isle, Executive 2016/2017 COMMISSIONERS Wine Editor for Food & Wine Magazine. The videos chronicle • I am honored that Wine Vision selected Sonoma County to be Ray’s journey around Sonoma County as he visits different vine- the home to its annual wine conference. I presented at the Wine yards and talks to local grape growers. This was the first-time Ray Vision Conference last December in Bilbao, Spain. Attendees has ever done a regional video series and a first time for a video were impressed with our sustainability commitment and 100-year series showcasing the farmers. Check them out on our website. business plan, igniting interest in visiting Sonoma County and see- They are really good! ing our efforts firsthand. On December 5-7th, we welcomed over • NEW EDUCATION PROGRAM FOR WINE TRADE. This 200 winery and winegrowing executives from around the world to year, the SCW announced an expanded partnership with Geoff our backyard. It was a great opportunity for leaders from around Kruth and the Guild of Somms, providing sustainability education the world to experience what makes Sonoma County special - our to key wine buyers in 5 cities across the U.S. and Hong Kong. This people, our vineyards and our community. education is critical to raise awareness and support for our sustain- ability efforts with the influencers who directly communicate and talk to the end consumer. GROWER EDUCATION EVOLVED – SUCCESSION PLANNING I am excited about our current eight-month succession planning series called “Protecting Family Farms for the Next 100 Years Through Succession Planning.” This grower education series is open to all grape growers in Sonoma & Marin County. We have partnered with several nationally recognized industry leaders who will bring content of the upmost value to you, your family, and your business. At each of the workshops an expert presenter will provide pieces of the planning puzzle ranging from navigating family dynamics to selecting and molding a qualified management team. The workshops will provide your business with tangible tools, best management practices and a comprehensive STAFFING UPDATES guide on how you can effectively pass your business along to the next There have been a few staffing changes at SCW. In September, we -wel generation; ensuring the long-term future of agriculture. For the coming comed Emily Farrant, a 5th generation Sonoma County native, to our year, this themed series will be the focus of our traditional grower educa- team as our new Sustainability Manager. Emily comes with an expertise tion meetings. in agroecology and environmental sustainability and experience working in multiple areas of the world. She balances this global viewpoint with a PARTNERSHIPS local love of fishing, hunting and farming! She is going to be a wonderful Our partnerships continue support to our grower community and help to lead us in our sustainabil- with Sonoma County Vintners ity efforts. The addition of Farrant to our SCW team will enable Robert (SCV) and Sonoma County LaVine to transition into a consultant’s role where he will mentor Emily Tourism (SCT). This past during her onboarding process, and he will continue to provide one-on- March, our three organizations one grower assessments and participate in grower workshops moved together into the new throughout the year. (See page 9 for more details) American AgCredit build- As we welcomed Emily, we bid Karen Thomas a fond farewell as she ing. A special thank you to stepped down in her role as Grower Programs Manager to move closer to American AgCredit and TLCD family and friends. Karen provided a constant smile and warm welcome Architecture (building archi- Karissa Kruse alongside Sonoma as she created education programs to support all of you over the past tects), JMA (contractors & sub- County Tourism President & CEO seven years. Her enthusiasm and genuine love for grape growers will be contractors), AAC (Facilities missed, but we are excited for her and Steve as they embark upon their and IT), Portola Systems (IT Ken Fischang and Sonoma County next adventure. & server Infrastructure) and Vintners Executive Director Jean Arnold Sessions in the new We are adding a new role to the SCW team – Education and our movers Shultz Brothers for AmericanAg Credit building. Community Engagement Manger. This position will replace the role the opportunity and support in of Grower Programs Manager that Karen left vacant. This position will helping us move into an incred- continue to work on grower education, but will also include targeted ible space as a Trio. education and outreach to consumers, wine trade, elected officials, ag Also, a very elated welcome to Jean Arnold Sessions who joined the educators and our local community. This is an exciting position and Sonoma County Vintners this summer as its permanent Executive will continue to elevate the role and marketing of winegrowers locally, Director. Jean is an industry veteran, a wealth of marketing knowledge regionally, and nationally. and most importantly, just an amazing person to work with! She rounds out what is a fantastic leadership team alongside Ken Fischang from MARKETING & EVENTS SCT. It is an honor two work with these two amazing leaders. Our marketing continues in full gear with partnerships with The As you can read, we continue to be actively engaged in sharing your story Wall Street Journal, Food & Wine Magazine, Wine Spectator, Wine and providing resources to help you succeed on your farm. We hope you Enthusiast, and the Guild of Sommeliers. We continue to make headline will continue to join us at meetings and workshops and get involved. news with our sustainability efforts, 100-year plan and news of the Thank you, as always, for supporting me in doing work that I love! Sonoma County Grape Growers Foundation. Two big highlights: Karissa

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 4 12/19/16 4:09 PM COMMISSIONER NEWS

SONOMA COUNTY WINEGROWERS 2016/2017 COMMISSIONERS

The 2016/2017 Commissioners include the return of eight incumbents, as well as the elec- tion of two past Commissioners. Commission incumbents who were re-confirmed to the board include: Anna Darden of Darden Vineyard, George Martinelli of Martinelli Vineyards, Bret Munselle of Munselle Vineyards, Mark Pasternak of Devil’s Gulch Ranch, Brad Petersen of Rawah Vineyards, Dan Rotlisberger of Rotlisberger Ranch, Mark Sanchietti of Sanchietti Farming, and Rich Schaefers of Silverado Sonoma Properties. Returning to the Commission are John Balletto, Founder & Owner of Balletto Vineyards DISTRICT 3 ASSESSMENT & Winery, and Steve Sangiacomo, a partner in Sangiacomo Family Vineyards. Both of FOR HARVEST these men have served as chairman of the Winegrape Commission. “Sonoma County’s 1,800 grape growers are fortunate to have some of the region’s most YEAR 2016 dedicated, passionate, and accomplished leaders representing their interests on our Commission Board to help advance our sustainability efforts and ensure we continue to have a vibrant marketplace to sell our grapes for generations to come,” says Karissa Kruse, California law requires an assessment President of the Sonoma County Winegrowers. “The success of our sustainability efforts fee on all District 3 Sonoma County/ have gained global recognition for Sonoma County, much of which could not have been Marin County winegrapes. The Sonoma accomplished without the commitment and support from the board, including two outgo- County Winegrape Commission ing Commissioners Joe Battaglini and Joe Judge. We thank them for their time and service (SCWC) Board has set the 2016 assess- to the grape growing community.” ment rate at 0.5% (one half percent) During the July Board meeting, the Commission unanimously re-elected Kevin Barr as of the gross dollar value of District Chairman of the Board, Joe Dutton as Vice Chairman, and Mark Sanchietti as Treasurer. 3 Sonoma County/Marin County The 2016/2017 Commissioners are: Kevin Barr, Joe Dutton, Mark Sanchietti, John winegrapes sold by growers to vintners. Balletto, Duff Bevill, George Martinelli, Doug McIlroy, Bret Munselle, Glenn Proctor, This assessment is used to fund market- Steve Sangiacomo, and Ray Johnson (Public Member At-Large). Commission Alternates ing programs that increase the value of are: Domenic Carinalli, Anna Darden, Marissa Ledbetter, Richard Mounts, Vickie Mulas, Sonoma County winegrapes and build Mark Pasternak, Brad Petersen, Dan Rotlisberger, Rich Schaefers, Brent Young, and the Sonoma County brand, while also Rhonda Smith (Public Member at Large). offering educational programs, seminars, and tools for our grape grower commu- nity. District 3 growers who commer- cially sell less than 25 tons of winegrapes are exempt from this assessment but may still submit an assessment on a volun- tary basis to support our programs and marketing. The 2016 SCWC Vintner assessment letter and forms are available on our website at http://www.sonomawine- grape.org/district-3-assessment-for- harvest-year-2016 The assessment report forms and payments are due no later than January 10th, 2017. Contact Kate Piontek via email at [email protected] or by phone at (707) 522-5868 should you have any questions. Joe Battaglini and his wife, Lucia, proudly Joe Judge, and his wife Gail, at their Bennett Valley display their Sonoma County Sustainable vineyards. vineyard sign among their 100+ old vines.

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 5 12/19/16 4:09 PM CONSUMER MARKETING MARKETING NEWS

SCW RE-LAUNCH EXPANDED VINEYARD ADVENTURES PROGRAM TO SHOWCASE SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES In case you missed the news this summer, we re-launched an expanded Sonoma County Vineyard Adventures, a marketing program designed to help wine lovers get an insider’s view of Sonoma County’s sustainable vine- yards. Over the past six months our staff was hard at work relaunching this important pro- gram, meeting with winery partners, iden- SOMMELIER EDUCATION The group visited Robert Young Estate for an Alexander Valley history lesson, vineyard walk and lunch. tifying and mapping out each new vineyard walk to showcase that vineyard’s uniqueness, SONOMA COUNTY WINEGROWERS CELEBRATE and unveiling a new, improved website. Vineyard Adventures are complimentary 10TH ANNIVERSARY MILESTONE AT GRAPE CAMP self-guided vineyard walks that provide Sonoma County visitors with an interactive and educational experience at a handful of In late September, we celebrated the 10th Anniversary of our nationally recognized Grape Camp wineries spread across our region. Each vine- consumer and media harvest experience. To commemorate this special milestone, we put together a yard walk is individualized to educate wine fantastic, over-the-top program including adding a third day that featured the Sonoma Coast appel- lovers about that site’s terroir, its sustainable lation for the first time. farming and winemaking practices, AVA We hosted 28 wine enthusiasts from across the United States and Canada, as well as four media regional information, and other important journalists from Fodor’s Travel, Prime Living Magazine (Texas), Houston Style Magazine and aspects of grape growing. Thanks to our winery partners: Amista Vineyards, Balletto The Oklahoman. Vineyards, Francis Ford Coppola Winery, This widely successful marketing program once again sold out months in advance, and continues Winery, Paradise Ridge to help us elevate the history and stories of Sonoma County’s grape growers and winery partners to Winery, Schug Carneros Estate Winery, and influential wine lovers and media. Here are some highlights: St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, as well as La Crema Winery and Mauritson Wines who will launch later this year. Please contact Andriana Duckworth at Day 1 started with our first harvest pick [email protected] if you’re a and country BBQ breakfast (Yes, there were winery interested in partnering with us on a steak and eggs!) high above Alexander Valley Vineyard Adventure. at one of Rodney Strong Vineyards beautiful vineyard properties. Campers also visited Learn more at SONOMA COUNTY GOES BIG IN TEXAS Robert Young Estate, Stonestreet Estate www.sonomavineyardadventures.com Vineyard, concluding with dinner hosted at Trione Vineyards & Winery.

Day 2 activities commenced in Green Valley with “A Beautiful Experience” hosted by The Rubin Family of Wines and Republic of Tea, where campers were immersed in a tea and wine sensory experience. The group headed to the Sonoma Coast for lunch at Fort Ross Vineyard and Winery, followed by a stop at Joseph Phelps Freestone Vineyards.

Day 3: Our final day of Grape Camp started in Dry Creek Valley at Comstock Wines, where campers had a full winemaking and crush pad experience. Stops also included a Dry Creek Valley-themed cooking class at Relish Culinary Adventures in Healdsburg, followed by a wine education seminar on Russian River Pinot Noir at Williams Selyem. The day concluded with a Western- Vineyard Adventures allow wine enthusiasts to themed dinner celebration at La Crema walk among the vines and learn about Sonoma Winery at the iconic Saralee’s Vineyard and County’s sustainable vineyard practices, such as the Richard’s Grove. importance of owl boxes.

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 6 12/19/16 4:10 PM MARKETING NEWS

A full house of rising star sommeliers attend our Sonoma County seminar in Kansas City on October 13.

SOMMELIER EDUCATION

One of our strategic marketing initiatives for 2016 was putting effort and re- sources towards educating key members of the wine trade, including sommeliers, about our sustainability commitment and efforts. These influential sommeliers and wine buyers are on the front lines and have direct access to wine consumers at major restaurants, wine shops, grocery stores, and distributor networks. As lead- ers in sustainable winegrowing, we have an obligation to help them understand why sustainability matters, including how our vineyard practices are helping increase quality in the bottle, while also taking care of our land and improving the lives of our employees and community. Here’s some highlights from our Sommelier Education Outreach: SONOMA COUNTY • We partnered with the Guild of Sommeliers and Master Sommelier Geoff Kruth on a series of WELCOMES LEADING seminars to educate leading sommeliers from around the country on Sonoma County wines SOMMELIERS AT SONOMA and our sustainability practices. This organization helps its 11,000 members worldwide broad- en their knowledge of the world’s wine regions, enhance their beverage service skills, network SUMMIT with other wine enthusiasts, and stay up to date on industry news and trends. The seminars In early November we hosted 34 influential took place in Kansas City, Houston, New York City, Las Vegas, and Hong Kong. wine buyers and sommeliers from across the • We also continued our sponsorship of their Top|Somm competition this past April that recog- country for our annual Sonoma Summit nizes the rising star sommeliers who are preparing for the Master Sommelier exam. There were program in partnership with Sonoma four regional competitions throughout the U.S. culminating with a National Championship County Vintners. It’s a three-day immersion here in Sonoma County. This included a special sustainability seminar we hosted that was at- in Sonoma County’s sustainable vineyards tended by all the Top|Somm participants. and wines that featured a series of seminars on our leading varietal wines and regions. Attendees represent some of the country’s most prestigious restaurants and hotels and SONOMA COUNTY GOES BIG IN TEXAS are considered influencers in the wine trade. The group included beverage professionals from Eleven Madison Park, Jean-Georges, This past March we traveled to Texas for our and Gramercy Tavern in New York City; Annual Sonoma in the City wine trade and Pappas Brothers Steakhouse in Houston, media program in partnership with Sonoma The Boarding House in Chicago, and San County Vintners and Sonoma County Francisco Bay Area’s The Ritz Carlton Half Tourism. Moon Bay, Pebble Beach Resorts, Michael We visited two of the state’s most impor- Mina (San Francisco), Liholiho Yacht Club tant wine markets, Houston and Austin, to (San Francisco), Cost Plus World Market promote the region and educate influential (Oakland), and many others. wine trade and media about our vineyards, New this year, the Sonoma County our wineries, and our wines. This was a huge Winegrowers hosted a special sustainabil- success with more than 600 media, trade, ity seminar to provide an overview of our and consumers attending a series of seminars, program, why it matters (locally and in the grand tastings, and dinners. marketplace), and offer a deep dive and discussion on various sustainability practices. Karissa was joined by Brad Petersen, SCW We also hosted two media dinners that Board Member and vineyard manager attracted two dozen lifestyle, wine, food, and at Silver Oak Cellars and Lise Asimont, director of grower relations at Francis Ford travel writers. Coppola Winery. The seminar also included a guided Vineyard Adventures walk at In Houston, we hosted a series of seminars focused Paradise Ridge Winery so they could walk on our sustainable farming practices, and featuring Vineyard Adventures allow wine enthusiasts to among the vine rows and get a close-up view Karissa Kruse and several grape growers, including of some of our sustainability practices. walk among the vines and learn about Sonoma Bret Munselle of Munselle Family Vineyards, County’s sustainable vineyard practices, such as the Diana Karren of Terra de Promissio Vineyard, importance of owl boxes. and Ryan Decker of Rodney Strong Vineyards.

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 7 12/19/16 4:10 PM OUT & ABOUT SUSTAINABILITY UPDATE

SONOMA COUNTY WINEGROWERS WELCOMES GUERNEVILLE NATIVE EMILY LAMBERT FARRANT AS OUR NEW SUSTAINABILITY MANAGER

While in New Orleans to speak at the TPA Global Sustainability Summit alongside California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance’s Executive Director Allison Jordan and Jackson Family Wines’ Director of Sustainability Julien Gervreau, Karissa also had an opportunity to appear on a local radio Our new Sustainability Manager Emily Farrant attended the Foss Creek Cleanup and Smart show to promote grape growing and Sonoma Living Healdsburg Fair to educate the local community about our sustainability efforts. County.

THE SONOMA COUNTY WINEGROWERS STAFF HAS BEEN MAKING THE ‘ROUNDS ACROSS THE COUNTY, STATE, COUN- TRY, AND GLOBE PRO- MOTING OUR GRAPE GROWERS AND ALL THE The Sonoma County Winegrowers, in partnership with Sonoma County Tourism Karissa Kruse and former SCW Commission TREMENDOUS WORK and Sonoma County Vintners, traveled to Chairman Brad Petersen discussed our the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen in June to YOU DO! HERE’S A sustainability efforts to a group of leading promote Sonoma County as a wine country sommeliers at Alexander Valley’s Cab SNAPSHOT OF IT ALL. destination. This is one of the top wine events Academy in May. in America.

Karissa had a great time meeting with growers and welcoming visitors to Sonoma County at the first ever Wine Tasting at Fountaingrove Day in August.

The Sonoma County Winegrowers sponsored In May, SCW’s Sean Carroll poured wines the wine tent at this year’s Gravenstein and promoted our sustainability efforts at Apple Fair in Sebastopol. There were a the 2016 Clean Energy Ministerial hosted lot of sustainable wines poured during the in San Francisco. Some of the special guests event and we had an educational booth to included California Governor Brown and demonstrate our sustainability leadership to the Energy Ministers from the 24 largest our local neighbors. economies in the world.

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 8 12/19/16 4:10 PM SUSTAINABILITY UPDATE

SONOMA COUNTY WINEGROWERS WELCOMES TOP FIVE GUERNEVILLE NATIVE EMILY LAMBERT FARRANT AS OUR NEW SUSTAINABILITY MANAGER REASONS TO JOIN OUR

Sonoma County Winegrowers are proud to announce that we’ve ex- SUSTAINABILITY panded the resources for our local winegrape growers with the hiring of Emily Lambert Farrant as our new Sustainability Manager. INITIATIVE Farrant, an agroecology and environmental sustainability professional who grew up locally in Guerneville, joins Robert LaVine, who will transi- 1. It is the best way to ADD VALUE TO tion into a sustainability consultant role, to work with Sonoma County’s grape growers to build on our success and meet our goal of 100% sustain- YOUR GRAPES AND VINEYARD. ability for the region. Sonoma County Winegrowers have put a lot of resources toward promot- “One of the hallmarks of our sustainability program has been providing ing our sustainable vineyards, including all of our growers with support, insight and expertise to aid their efforts national advertising campaigns, media to successfully become certified sustainable,” said Karissa Kruse, president of Sonoma County Winegrowers. “As our sustainability program evolves relations, wine trade education, and we are so fortunate to add the unique background and skill set that Emily more. These efforts will help add value brings to our team that will provide added resources and knowledge to to your grapes and vineyard operations. our grower community. Not only will she be able to help us to meet our 2019 target, but her expertise and experiences will greatly aid our efforts 2. WINERIES ARE REQUESTING in making our 100 Year Business Plan truly actionable.” AND PAYING MORE FOR Farrant is the fifth-generation of a Sonoma County farming family whose great-grandparents were long CERTIFIED SUSTAINABILE time apple growers. She grew up near that farm in Guerneville where she enjoyed gardening, fishing and GRAPES. An additional $350,000 hunting - activities that most grape growers can appreciate. Today she volunteers in the local community, was paid to Sonoma County grape including coaching the El Molino High School girls’ varsity soccer team. growers in 2015 for certified sustain- In addition to her strong connection and love for Sonoma County, she also has a unique international able grapes. Wineries believe in the sustainability perspective which has been acquired throughout her professional career. Over the past five importance of sustainability and are years, she has worked in 14 countries across four continents, including Africa, Asia, North America, and now offering financial incentives for Europe. She most recently worked at Greeneye Partners, one of the world’s most influential environment, your efforts. health and safety consulting firms in the electronics recycling industry. Farrant’s strong tenacity, work ethic, and passion for sustainability helped pave her way to successfully navigate different cultures, corpo- rate structures, employee dynamics, and other aspects of a client’s business to confirm and educate them 3. CONSUMERS WANT TO on implementation of their product certifications for recycling. Prior to that, Farrant worked globally on SUPPORT WINES MADE FROM behalf of the Gates Foundation in Ghana on sustainability and environmental health issues. SUSTAINABLE GRAPES! Research “I feel so lucky to be joining Sonoma County Winegrowers as the sustainability manager. I have been shows that consumers care deeply following the program’s success since it was first launched and when I learned of the job opportunity it was about sustainability and are willing to truly a dream come true for me,” said Farrant. pay more for sustainable products. Our The addition of Farrant to the Sonoma County Winegrowers team will enable Robert LaVine to transition own consumer survey also showed that into a consultant’s role. LaVine, a well-respected viticulturist, joined Sonoma County Winegrowers in 50% of respondents think sustainabil- 2014 soon after the organization unveiled its sustainability initiative. Over the past two and a half years, ity distinguishes Sonoma County from he helped implement the sustainability self-assessment and certification process for growers in Sonoma other wine regions, while 44% said County. He will continue to provide one-on-one grower assessments and participate in grower workshops reaching our 100% goal would make throughout the year. them more interested in purchasing our wines.

4. IT MATTERS LOCALLY. Our GET YOUR SONOMA COUNTY sustainability commitment allows us to SUSTAINABILITY VINEYARD demonstrate all the positive contribu- SIGNS tions you make to our local community and reinforces how our sustainable We’ve delivered more than 600 “Sonoma vineyard practices make a difference in County Sustainable” vineyard signs to grape terms of water conservation, habitat growers and wineries who have completed restoration, social responsibility, and their assessment and/or received certifica- more. tion. We are proud to recognize everyone who has put a lot of time, energy, and 5. IT JUST TAKES A PHONE CALL thought into their sustainability practices. Please contact us if you’re sustainable, but TO GET STARTED. Call Emily have not received a sign yet. We’d love to Farrant, our new Sustainability drop off a sign, take a photo, and then pro- Manager at (707) 522-5851. mote it on social media, etc. Contact SCW Sustainability Manager Emily Farrant at [email protected].

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 9 12/19/16 4:10 PM UPDATES SPOTLIGHT GROWER PROGRAMS

GROWER EVENTS: SAVE THE DATE SCW LAUNCHES GROUNDBREAKING SUCCESSION SERIES PROGRAM

26TH ANNUAL DOLLARS & $ENSE SEMINAR & TRADESHOW The Sonoma County Winegrowers is presenting the 26th Annual Dollars & $ense Seminar and Tradeshow on Thursday, January 12, 2017 from 7:30am–1:30pm at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts (Formerly Wells Fargo Center for the Arts) located at 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa. In addition to announcing most of our major marketing initia- tives and garnering significant media attention, Dollars & $ense attracts one of the largest Sonoma County gatherings of growers, vintners, wine industry professionals and tradeshow vendors to discuss the region’s and wine industry’s most important issues. The event also features one of the longest-running tradeshows in the North Bay. Check back on our website for more details on how to register.

PLEASE SUPPORT THE GRAPE GROWERS FOUNDATION

Far too many families provide critical services and resources in the areas of affordable in Sonoma County are housing, childcare, healthcare, and education. SCGGF aims to struggling to make ends make Sonoma County the region of choice for Ag employees to meet. Too frequently we live, work and thrive. hear stories of working Please join us and make a year-end, tax deductible contribution families who are spending to the Sonoma County Grape Growers Foundation so we can more than 60% of their solve these complex community issues. Your gift will go directly monthly income on rent to improving the lives of local families living in Sonoma County which leaves limited funds and help sustain agriculture for years to come. to cover the increasing costs of childcare, medical and education. To contribute, send a check payable to the Sonoma County Families like these are forced to make difficult choices and they Grape Growers Foundation to the following address: need your help. 400 Aviation Blvd. Suite 500 A gift to the Sonoma County Grape Growers Foundation Santa Rosa, CA 95403 (SCGGF) will help our skilled vineyard employees and their families to live healthier and happier lives. SCGGF is working *Donation is tax deductible collaboratively with other organizations in the community to

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 10 12/19/16 4:10 PM GROWER PROGRAMS

GROWER EVENTS: SAVE THE DATE SCW LAUNCHES GROUNDBREAKING SUCCESSION SERIES PROGRAM

The Sonoma County Winegrowers are WORKSHOPS launching an eight-month succession plan- ning series called “Protecting Family Farms • Workshop 1 - November 3, 2016: for the Next 100 Years Through Succession Protecting Your Farm with Insurance Planning” for all grape growers in Sonoma to Manage Risk and Financial Loss & Marin Counties. We have partnered with and the Transfer of Institutional several nationally recognized industry lead- Knowledge Through Record Keeping ers who will bring content of the upmost Practices with presentations by: Fred value to you, your family and your busi- Carvajal of American AgCredit; Lisa ness. The program begins next month and Velasquez of USDA Farm Service there will be a total of 6 workshops. Each Agency; Coop Gabelman of George workshop and expert presenter will provide Petersen Insurance; Marissa Peterson of pieces of the planning puzzle ranging from Zenith Insurance; Lisa Chapman and navigating family dynamics to selecting and Mark Azzouni of the Sonoma County molding a qualified management team. The District Attorney’s Office. workshops will provide your business with • Workshop 2 - December 14, 2016: tangible tools, best management practices Successfully Transitioning the Family and a comprehensive guide on how you can Company to the Next Generation: effectively pass your business along to the build family harmony, navigate com- next generation; ensuring the long term mon pitfalls and develop a governance future of agriculture. For the coming year, structure by Lois Lang Psy.D of Evolve this themed series will be the focus of our Partner Group, LLC traditional grower education meetings. • Workshop 3 - February 13, 2017: This can’t miss program is free of charge Strategic Planning for Farm Operations to all grape growers who own or manage a vineyard in Sonoma and/or Marin County. In order to by Dr. David Kohl, Professor Emeritus protect agriculture and the many family farms for the next 100 years it is imperative that our growers Virginia Tech Department of invest time to plan for their business’ future and prepare the next generation. Agriculture and Applied Economics For the long term success of your business, we highly encourage that you, your family members and and President of AgriVisions, LLC key managers attend each workshop. We’re confident you’ll find the entire experience to be reward- • Workshop 4 - March 23, 2017: ing and thought-provoking - and something that will protect your family and business for genera- Essential CORE Principals and Best tions to come. Practices in Succession Planning: Management Techniques for Key Manager and Employee Retention by Michael C. Saqui, The Saqui Law Group, and Raul Calvo, Employer Services • Workshop 5 - April 14, 2017: Essential CORE Principals and Best PLEASE SUPPORT THE GRAPE GROWERS FOUNDATION Practices in Succession Planning: Management Techniques for Operational Compliance by Michael C. Saqui, The Saqui Law Group, and Raul Calvo, Employer Services • Workshop 6 - June 12, 2017: Making Sure it all Works: Achieving Success and Succession in a Multi- “All farming families share the same concerns: how can we keep our land within the family Generation Family Farm by Donald and our business viable for future generations? My family and I attended a seminar co- J. Jonovic Ph.D., President, Family Business Management Services presented by Donald Jonovic and David Kohl, which focused on best practices to do exactly that. Their wealth of experience in working with multi-generational family businesses is Register Online: second to none. As attendees, our family gained invaluable insights to strengthen our busi- www.sonomawinegrape.org/ ness structure, thoroughly evaluate our long-term goals, and obtain proven strategies to help successionplanningseries us avoid many of the pitfalls that have historically torn family businesses apart. From experience, we have learned there is no easy way to approach the family business on the subjects of transition and succession planning…you just have to bring your family together, jump in and get started. ~ Bret Munselle of Munselle Vineyards, 5th generation Sonoma County grape grower

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 11 12/19/16 4:10 PM SPONSORS HARVEST FAIR AWARDS

2016 COMMISSION SPONSORS CONGRATULATIONS TO 2016 SONOMA COUNTY Thank you to all the sponsors listed below that support the efforts of the Sonoma County Winegrape Commission. We hope our grape HARVEST FAIR AWARDS RECIPIENTS grower community will consider these businesses and services in the coming year. For additional information, please visit: http://www.sonomawinegrape.org/sponsors

Accounting & Banking Agriculture, Vineyard & Professional Services & Business • Dal Poggetto & Company LLP Industrial Supply (continued) Resources • Exchange Bank • WM Earthcare / Waste Management • Goldstrand Planning Group • Moss Adams LLP • Wyatt Irrigation Co. • Ray Carlson & Associates, Inc. • Pisenti & Brinker LLP • Yamaha Motor Corporation • The Saqui Law Group • Silicon Valley Bank • Villa Vernazza • Summit State Bank Associations • Wine Industry Network • Allied Grape Growers Ag Lender • California Grower Foundation Solar, Energy & Weather • American AgCredit • California Sustainable Winegrowing • Solarcraft • AXA Equitable AgriFinance Alliance • Sonoma Clean Power • Grange Credit Union • Northern Sonoma County Air • Westcoast Solar Energy Pollution Control District • Western Weather Group Agriculture, Vineyard & • Sonoma County Agricultural Industrial Supply Commissioner Vineyard Management & • Ag Unlimited • Sonoma County Farm Bureau Consulting • Agrobiomics • Sonoma County Water Agency • Advanced Viticulture, Inc. • Agroplasma Inc. • Sonoma Resource Conservation • AgCode Inc. District • Allied Propane Service • Atterbury & Associates, Inc. • Sonoma State University • Bahco Pruning Tools • Bacchus Vineyard Management • Bartolomei Scale Crop Protection & Laboratory • Bevill Vineyard Management • Black Hole Irrigation Services • Dirt Farmer & Co. • Central Valley • Agrothermal Systems • Grace Vineyard Management • Cleartreat Water Reclamation • Bayer Crop Science • Redwood Empire Vineyard Management • Deep Root Distribution • Crop Production Services • Stamp Associates • FELCO • Eurofins STA Laboratories • Tri-Valley Vineyard Management, Inc. • Garton Tractor • Wilbur-Ellis • Grab n’ Grow Wine/Grape Brokerage, Winery • Hansel Auto Group Grapevine Nurseries • Duarte Nursery & Custom Crush Facilities • Harmony Farm Supply • Ciatti Company • Guillaume Nurseries • Hertz Equipment Rental Corp. • Noble Custom Harvesting • Herrick Grapevines • Honey Bucket • Owl Ridge Wine Services • Knights Grapevine Nursery • Jim’s Supply Co., Inc. • Robert Sinskey Vineyards • Novavine • OnTarget Spray Systems • Ross Road Custom Crush • Sunridge Nurseries • Precision Wireless Service • Turrentine Brokerage • Shur Farms Frost Protection • Vintage Nurseries • Smothers Parts Int’l., Inc. Insurance • Tule Technologies • EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants • Vineyard Industry Products • George Petersen Insurance Agency • Westbridge Agricultural Products • VANTRO Insurance Brokerage • Western Square Industries • Zenith Insurance

For more information on becoming a Commission Sponsor contact Andriana Duckworth at [email protected] or 707-522-5867.

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 12 12/19/16 4:10 PM HARVEST FAIR AWARDS

CONGRATULATIONS TO 2016 SONOMA COUNTY - HARVEST FAIR AWARDS RECIPIENTS GROWERS SPONSOR TWO NEW SUSTAINABILITY AWARDS AT SONOMA SONOMA COUNTY WINEGROWERS PRESIDENT KARISSA KRUSE COUNTY HARVEST FAIR NAMED 2016 FRIEND OF AGRICULTURE As a global leader in sustainable agriculture, the Sonoma County Winegrowers believe it’s impor- The Sonoma County Winegrowers is proud of the recent recognition bestowed on tant to recognize those individuals and companies President Karissa Kruse with the 2016 Friend of Agriculture Award from the Sonoma in Sonoma County who are leading by example County Harvest Fair. and improving our local community and preserv- More than two and a half years ago, on behalf of Sonoma County’s winegrowers Kruse ing agriculture through their sustainable farming boldly announced the organization’s commitment to become the nation’s first 100% sus- and business practices. We are proud to sponsor tainable wine region. Fast forward 32 months, hundreds of meetings with growers, wine two new sustainability-focused awards that will be industry leaders, elected officials, and thousands of air miles to speak at major confer- given out annually at the Sonoma County Harvest ences, and Sonoma County is well on its way towards reaching its goal. Kruse’s leadership, vision, and energy have Fair: brought international recognition to the region as a global leader in sustainability. Her work has also seen the release of a first of its kind, groundbreaking “100 Year Business Plan to Preserve Agriculture in Sonoma County” that provides a blue print for helping growers preserve and protect their family farms for generations to come. Kruse is most proud of her work with local farmers to position Sonoma County as a global leader in sustainabil- ity. In 2015, Kruse was the first in Sonoma County to receive the Marshall Memorial Fellowship Award, where she traveled to Europe for a month to better understand transatlantic relations, sustainable farming, agri-tourism and wine marketing. She was selected in 2014 as a North Bay Business Journal Women in Business Honoree and 40 under Forty Award recipients in 2012.

BUCK SANGIACOMO RECEIVES LIFETIME CONTRIBUTION TO Redwood Empire Vineyard Management SONOMA COUNTY AGRICULTURE Named First Ever Outstanding Sustainable Farmer by Sonoma County Harvest Fair Every morning Buck Sangiacomo meets with his family over breakfast to discuss the daily operations for stewarding their 1,600 acres of vineyards in Though far from new to the agricultural business, Sonoma County. Buck’s dedication to his family, the land, and to the greater Sonoma County’s Redwood Empire Vineyard Management (REVM) employs farming practices agricultural community have shaped how grapes are grown today. Through as fresh and forward-thinking as they come. The sharing knowledge, honoring tradition, and embracing new technology, Buck company, founded in 1983, is today a leader in the continues to mentor the next generation of farmers. It is because of Buck’s com- movement toward sustainable farming. As the very mitment to the preservation of land and community that the Sonoma County first certified sustainable vineyard management Harvest Fair honored him with the 2016 Lifetime Contribution to Sonoma company in California, REVM is setting a model County Agriculture award. of excellence for vineyard managers and growers countywide and statewide to follow. Congrats ROBERT YOUNG FAMILY HONORED WITH LIFETIME to everyone at Redwood Empire Vineyard CONTRIBUTION TO SONOMA COUNTY’S WINE INDUSTRY Management, including Kevin and Linda Barr and “METHUSELAH AWARD” Tyler Klick. For nearly sixty years, the Robert Young Family has been growing grapes in Sonoma County. In fact, Robert Young was the first grower to plant Cabernet Sauvignon in Alexander Valley, the very varietal that put the region on the viticulture map. And with six generations of farming under their belt, the scions of Robert Young understand the delicate balance between nurturing and harvesting from the land. In keeping with family tradition, the Robert Young Family stays true to their roots by carefully pursuing perfection through experimenta- tion, exploration, and good old-fashioned hard work. Jackson Family Wines Honored for Leading the Way in Sustainable Winemaking with New VINO FARMS’ MARISSA LEDBETTER-FOSTER WINS 2016 OUT- “Outstanding Sustainable Processor/Maker” STANDING YOUNG FARMER AWARD Award Marissa Ledbetter-Foster loves agriculture and numbers. After graduating from Building on the legacy of their father Jess Jackson, Cal State San Luis Obispo in 2004 with a B.S. in Agricultural Business and a and with the continued passion and commit- minor in Wine & Viticulture, she wanted to determine her best career fit. She ment of Barbara Banke, the entire Jackson family considered Ag Finance, and she also felt the passion for farming that is in her takes the long view when helping to manage blood. Over the years, her family’s business Vino Farms has earned a solid their family business, always seeking to maintain the vitality of the land for the next generation. reputation within the industry, and Marissa has been a major contributor Jackson Family Wines, a collection of premium to this achievement. As Vice President of Operations for the North Coast, wines, including Kendall-Jackson, La Crema, Marissa travels between Napa and Sonoma Counties overseeing operations of and Stonestreet, stands out clearly as the leader both managed and owned vineyards. Her responsibilities include: new vineyard in Sonoma County’s new effort toward 100% development and redevelopment; joint oversight of the Human Resources and Safety Departments; sustainable winemaking by 2019. With Katie harvest scheduling; winery relations; and a multitude of other tasks that arise throughout the year. Jackson in charge of sustainability and external affairs, Jackson Family Wines is putting Sonoma County at the worldwide forefront of winemaking innovation yet again.

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 13 12/19/16 4:10 PM COMMUNITY AWARDS STAY CONNECTED

RICHARD MOUNTS RECOGNIZED WITH VITICULTURE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE TUNE INTO “OFF THE VINE” RADIO PROGRAM ON KSRO 1350

The Sonoma County Winegrowers were proud to recognize Dry Creek Valley grape grower Richard Mounts with its 2016 Viticulture Award of Excellence. The award was presented to Richard during our Grower Seminar, BBQ, and Tradeshow on June 3, including special recognition with a State of California proclamation presented by representatives of the State legislature and another proclamation from the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. Richard has been a tireless supporter and advocate of grape growing and the Sonoma County Winegrowers for the past two decades, always answering the call to serve and has done so with leadership, knowledge and passion. He has donated count- less hours over the years to promote grape growing, ensure there’s a marketplace for our county’s grapes, and provide his viticulture and farming expertise to our wine community here in Sonoma County. Richard is a member of the Sonoma County Winegrape Commission Board of Directors and its Executive Committee, he has served as Commission Board Treasurer and is a longtime member of the organiza- tion’s Marketing Committee. Richard has hosted important media and influential trade representatives to his family’s vineyard to educate them about grape growing and showcase his family’s legacy in Dry Creek Valley. In 2015, the Sonoma County Winegrowers featured Richard as their first grape grower in their national advertising campaign, “Sustainable Agriculture in a Glass” that ran in Food & Wine Magazine, Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, and other publications. In addition to his involvement with the Sonoma County Winegrowers, Richard has been very active in the local Sonoma County and California agricultural communities, including 24 years on the Board of the Sonoma County Farm Bureau (served as Board President from 1997-1998; member of the Executive, Budget & Finance, Building, and Natural Resources & Environment Committees); 25 years on the Board of the Sotoyome Resource Conservation District (now Sonoma RCD); and Advisory Task Force member on California’s Pierce’s Disease/Glassy Winged Sharp Shooter Board. Sonoma County Winegrowers annually present the Viticulture Award of Excellence to recognize individual grape growers or grape growing families who have made significant contributions to the Sonoma County Winegrowing community and the greater Sonoma County community.

SRJC AGTRUST HONORS GRAPE GROWERS TERRI AND JOHN BALLETTO AT 2016 AGSTRAVAGANZA

Sebastopol winegrowers Terri and John Balletto, whose land stewardship and dedication to community have made them respected leaders in agriculture, education and philanthropy, were honored by the Santa Rosa Junior College AgTrust for their many contributions to Sonoma County. The Ballettos and their incredible legacy as farmers, vintners, community leaders and benefac- tors will be celebrated at the SRJC AgTrust AgStravaganza on November 5 at SRJC’s Shone Farm near Forestville. The Ballettos own and operate Balletto Vineyards & Winery and farm more than 600 acres of vineyards in the Russian River Valley. They hold leadership positions in organizations that build community and promote and protect Sonoma County’s $4 billion agriculture industry. John Balletto has dynamically and passionately served on the Sonoma County Winegrape Commission board for eight years, serving as chairman from 2008 to 2012. In 2013, his dedication and advocacy on behalf of grape growers was recognized with the Viticulture Award of Excellence, an annual award given to individual grape growers or families that have contributed significantly to the grape growing community. Balletto also received the Sonoma County Harvest Fairs Outstanding Young Farmer Award in 1988. In addition, Balletto has given a lot of time to various organizations in Sonoma County, including serving on the Santa Rosa Junior College Ag Trust and Foundation boards, Sonoma West Medical Center board of directors, Russian River Valley Winegrowers board, and is actively engaged in the Sebastopol Sunrise Rotary. The SRJC AgTrust AgStravaganza will include tributes to Terri and John Balletto, a reception featuring Sonoma County wine and food followed by a catered dinner and a live auction. The benefit gala, open to anyone interested in honoring the Ballettos, will raise money to support the naming of a wine tasting room for Terri and John Balletto at Shone Farm. The new building will be adjacent to the Warren G. Dutton Pavilion, a fitting tribute because the Ballettos were among those instrumental in raising money to complete the pavilion in honor of their late friend and mentor The SRJC Ag Trust, a committee of the SRJC Foundation, raises and distributes money to enhance agriculture education and for improvements at Shone Farm. Every two years the Ag Trust holds the AgStravaganza celebration to honor remarkable leaders. Among those previously honored are Richard and Saralee Kunde, Steve Olson, Rich Thomas and Ron Carli.

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 14 12/19/16 4:10 PM STAY CONNECTED

RICHARD MOUNTS RECOGNIZED WITH VITICULTURE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE TUNE INTO “OFF THE VINE” RADIO PROGRAM ON KSRO 1350

Please tune in every other Tuesday from 4:20 PM to 5:00 PM on KSRO Radio’s the Drive with Steve Jaxon to listen to our radio show “Off the Vine.” Hear Karissa Kruse, and special guests, discuss sustainable winegrowing in Sonoma County. During each show, Karissa discusses what’s new at the Sonoma County Winegrowers, seasonal updates from the vineyards, and explain what it takes to grow grapes sustainably. The show also features winegrowers, SONOMA COUNTY WINEGROWERS LAUNCH VIDEO SERIES IN winemakers, AVA representatives, and PARTNERSHIP WITH FOOD & WINE MAGAZINE other community leaders talking about We launched a new groundbreaking video series this summer focused on grape growers why Sonoma County is such a special here in Sonoma County. In partnership with Food & Wine Magazine, we produced a place to grow wine grapes. first-of-its-kind video series called “Backroads & Backstories” with Executive Wine Editor How to tune in: In Sonoma County Ray Isle. Throughout the series, the acclaimed culinary magazine’s Executive Wine Editor move your radio dial to 1350 AM Ray Isle travels across Sonoma County talking with grape growers about their farming and or 103.5 FM at 4:20 PM every other grape growing history, sustainability, and what makes this place so special. We have a very Tuesday. You can also listen to the show strong relationship with Food & Wine and it’s the first time that Ray Isle has appeared in a SRJC AGTRUST HONORS GRAPE GROWERS online at www.ksro.com and we post regional video series, let alone one solely focused on grape growing. TERRI AND JOHN BALLETTO AT 2016 AGSTRAVAGANZA podcast of the show on our website at www.sonomawinegrape.org/radio We have released six videos to date that have brought a lot of recognition and acclaim to Sonoma County Winegrowers. The video series has reached over 6 million consumers and a total of 100,000 video views since launching in July. This promotion was supported by our 2014 Specialty Crop Block Grant administered by the California Department of Food & Agriculture. Visit our website at www.sonomawinegrape.org/backroads-backstories to see the videos.

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SCW Vine Times Fall 2016.indd 15 12/19/16 4:10 PM 400 Aviation Blvd, Ste 500 Santa Rosa, CA 95403

Growers Circle Sponsor

Platinum Sponsors:

Sonoma County Winegrape Commission Calendar Please view our calendar at www.SonomaWineGrape.org/events for a complete listing. For questions contact Denise at [email protected]

Jan. 12 26th Annual Dollars & Sense Seminar: 7:30am - 1:30pm at Luther Burbank Center For the Arts (Formerly Wells Fargo Center) Feb. 8 UCCE Sonoma’s Grape Day: 7am registration at Luther Burbank Center For the Arts (Formerly Wells Fargo Center) Feb. 13 Succession Planning Series Workshop #3: 9am-12:30 pm at Hyatt Vineyard Creek, Alexander Valley Ballrooms I & II Feb. 17 Sonoma County Pruning Championship: 7:30am-2pm at SRJC’s Shone Farms

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