Kestutis Vizgirda and Kristina Filippi of Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyards
Tell us about the sustainable and eco-friendly practices at the vineyard: The vast majority of Wilson Creek winery winemaking sustainability is practiced in the vineyard. But sustainable wines are more than the vineyard; a fair amount conservation stewardship is practiced in the wine cellar. Wine tank wash water is recycled within the tank as well as the use of steam. This approach has reduced the need for large volumes of water. A high-efficiency refrigeration system has been recently added, reducing the amount of electrical energy needed in winemaking. Finally, our wine bottles are recycled as well as all paper products on a weekly basis.
Wilson Creek is a leader in regenerative farming practices. Regenerative goes beyond sustainability where the goals are increased biological density and diversity leading to overall increased biome ecosystem functions. Our practices include no herbicides, no synthetic fertilizers unless chelated in a bioreactor, composting, extensive use of multi-species cover crops, and integrated pest management with a 90 percent reduction of insecticides. We perform plant sap analysis and biological soil analysis for the application of biologically based fertilizers leading to increased soil carbon and balanced bacterial-to-fungi ratios. These practices with improved water distribution and monitoring have reduced our water use by 40 percent with an increase in yield of an average of 28 percent leading to a net efficiency of 53 percent gallon-to-ton use. We also conduct and collaborate on regenerative research and teach.
Tell us about the varietals you make: Wilson Creek grows and produces 15 different varieties. Rhone varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah, Viognier and Roussanne thrive well in the Temecula climate, as well as popular Burgundy varieties such as Chardonnay, Malbec and Merlot. Our winemakers like to create unique blends that have become fan favorites and winery staples such as our Double Dog and Bourbon Barrel Zinfandel to name a few.
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