December 16, 2025 (Atascadero, CA) — As 2025 comes to a close, Vineyard Team reflects on a year defined by collaboration, education, and shared commitment to sustainability. With support from members, sponsors, and partners, the organization made meaningful strides in advancing sustainable winegrowing across the region and beyond.
Expanding Education & Outreach
Education remained a cornerstone of Vineyard Team’s impact. Eleven Tailgate meetings across three counties brought together more than 400 professionals and 51 subject-matter experts to discuss soil health, pest management, and sustainable techniques, all grounded in real-world application. Online, 11 refreshed courses offered 17 DPR hours and flexible access to continuing education, making learning more accessible than ever.
Celebrating 20 Years of the Sustainable Ag Expo
This milestone year for the Sustainable Ag Expo welcomed 479 attendees, 44 expert speakers, and 67 exhibitors. With 16 in-person seminars and 13 online courses, participants had access to 19 DPR and 30.5 CCA hours while gaining practical insights into vineyard automation, labor solutions, climate resilience, and more.
The Expo was more than education; it fostered connection. Five networking events fueled meaningful conversations, supported by 35 gallons of coffee, 36 bottles of SIP Certified wine, and 600 ounces of craft beer. The expanded SIP Certified Lounge served as a central hub, offering a space to reflect, recharge, and celebrate sustainability in action.
Save the Date: The next Sustainable Ag Expo will return November 10–11, 2026 in San Luis Obispo, CA.
A Growing Movement
12 vineyards joined SIP Certified in 2025, adding nearly 1,000 new acres of sustainably farmed land between Santa Barbara and Monterey County. Today, the program encompasses nearly 41,000 vineyard acres and six wineries across California, Oregon, and Michigan. Long-time members including Castoro Cellars, DAOU Vineyards, Hahn Family Wines, and Laetitia Vineyard & Winery celebrated their 18th year of certification, underscoring the program’s enduring impact.
Investing in the Future
Through the Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship, Vineyard Team awarded $82,000 to 23 first-generation college students—six new recipients and 17 returning scholars. Beyond financial aid, the program provided more than 200 hours of mentorship, supporting each student’s academic journey and professional goals.
Knowledge on the Go
With 37 new episodes in 2025, including 12 focused on marketing, the Sustainable Winegrowing Podcast tackled critical industry topics such as fungicide resistance, hybrid grape varieties, and grape market strategy. Each 30-minute-or-less episode was designed with growers in mind, perfect for learning on the go.
Growing a Stronger Community
Vineyard Team’s work is powered by its dedicated community. In 2025, the organization served more than 100 vineyard and winery members across five counties, along with over 90 agricultural business members and sponsors. A committed group of Board and Committee members generously gave their time to guide and strengthen every program.
Thank You!
Whether in the vineyard, at the Expo, or behind the scenes, your involvement drives the future of sustainable winegrowing. Join us in 2026 as we continue the journey together.
Mark your calendars for next year’s Sustainable Ag Expo: November 10–11, 2026 in San Luis Obispo, CA. To get involved or learn more, visit www.vineyardteam.org or contact Outreach & Education Coordinator Hayli at hayli@vineyardteam.org.
About Vineyard Team
Arising from growers’ interest to educate and guide themselves towards sustainable winegrowing practices, Vineyard Team has become an internationally recognized leader in the sustainability movement since 1994.
