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An ideal day of tasting for me is three winery visits that give different experiences and provide a range of insights into our beautiful valley, while championing environmental practices that I hold dear.
This list is in no particular order, and represents some of my favourite (yes, I’m Australian and we put a ‘u’ in favourite) people in our beloved valley. This list is people focused for me. The ‘why’ behind each of these wineries and their teams is what I love about our Napa Green community. There are so many brilliant people in our industry who are able to remain buoyant and motivated in the face of a large and arduous task – making beautiful and soulful wines of time and place in the face of a warming climate – and they are the people I love to visit and enjoy the fruits of their labor.
It has to be said, while I’m on my soapbox, that people like Anna Brittain and her team at Napa Green (Megan, Ben, Sierra, Marisa and Meghan) work themselves to the bone to effect meaningful change here in the valley. Climate work is draining, and rewarding, and depleting, and life giving – and supporting Napa Green certified members supports the work of these incredibly hard working people, whose life work is to fight climate change through agriculture. So, with that said, visit wineries who inspire you. Who do good things in the world. Here are three that inspire me.
As I work for a second generation, family owned winery, I love to see fellow small, family owned wineries shine. Founded by Launny and Weezie Steffens, the winery is now led by their son Wes Steffens. The vision and love that Wes has for their property, their wines, their team and for Napa Valley absolutely shine through everything about Vineyard 7&8. I had the pleasure of getting to know Wes better through the Napa Vintners Leadership Program and when I think of Wes and Vineyard 7&8 I think of integrity, intention, authenticity and joy. These are the kind of people I love to support.
Don’t forget that when you are visiting a winery and enjoying your time, and the views, and the beautiful wines (Vineyard 7&8 has all of these in spades), you are also supporting the people behind that experience. They have a couple of adorable sheep named Siete and Ocho (7 and 8). They are Napa Green Vineyard certified, caring for their team and focusing on regenerative farming practices that build soil health, resilience, and maximize quality. Tastings are by appointment only, and the drive up Spring Mountain is SO worth it for the spectacular views up there! Beautiful people, beautiful wines, good vibes all round.
Well, what to say about Young Inglewood… Firstly, full disclosure, Spottswoode works with Young Inglewood as a grower partner and we purchase Merlot and Malbec from the Youngs every year for our Lyndenhurst Napa Valley Cabernet. But, I swear on my Aussie citizenship, I would be saying everything I’m about to say without that tie to Spottswoode. Family owned, organically farmed, Napa Green Winery certified and some of the kindest people in the valley… Scott Young and his parents, Jacky and Jim, farm their vineyard and run their business with a deft touch and thoughtfulness that is reflected in the wines they produce year in and year out.
The winery is gorgeous and tucked away on the western benchlands of St Helena. It is a warm and comfortable experience that’s wholesome and joyful, and their wines range from classic and cerebral (Estate Cabernet Sauvignon) to playful, fresh and interesting (delicious Rose, and their Aligote.. So good. If you can get your hands on some, do it!). I can’t speak highly enough of the Young family, and it’s one of my must stops for visitors when in St. Helena. Don’t forget, it’s by appointment!
A bit of a switch up in vibes with this one – Opus One is, for those who may not know, one of the benchmark Napa Valley Cabernet brands worldwide. The notoriety and recognition the brand has accumulated in its time is no mean feat, and the tasting experience is as grand as the winery’s reputation. But again, this recommendation is as much about the people behind the curtain as it is about the wine and the experience. Michael Silacci, the winemaker, heads up a team of bad-ass, smart and talented women (and many great men, of course) who I have been lucky enough to become acquainted with over my time working with Napa Green, as well as International Wineries for Climate Action (IWCA).
Getting to know Michael and the careful thinking behind every decision at Opus is nothing short of inspiring. The work they are doing to steward their property and be industry leaders is to be commended – and seeing the behind the scenes of the work they put in and their team dynamic is something for all to aspire to. So, as much as you may not see this behind the scenes when you visit (you will be too busy being awe-inspired by the beauty of the building, the vineyard, the interiors…oh, and the exceptional wines) just know that you are supporting a team who is doing good in the world.
It has to be said that before a day of tasting (or any day, to be fair), a non-negotiable for me is an oat cortado from Model Bakery in St Helena (feel free to line your stomach with something delicious from there too – Oprah loves their english muffins for a reason, but sleeper option is their avocado toast). Ideally, you have your own keep cup to avoid a to-go cup going to landfill…
Molly Sheppard | Global Sales and Environmental Manager, Spottswoode Estate and Board Member, Napa Green
Born and raised in Victoria, Australia, Molly Sheppard has been surrounded by wine for most of her life. She attended Curtin University in Western Australia, completing a degree in Agribusiness, Viticulture, and Enology. After working in wineries in Victoria, Margaret River, and the Yarra Valley, Molly made her first trip to Napa Valley as an intern for the 2017 vintage and fell in love with the beauty and dynamic nature of Napa Valley and its wines. She returned in 2018 and joined the Spottswoode winemaking team as a harvest intern, becoming part of the team full time in 2019. For the past few years, she has been working alongside winemaker Aron Weinkauf as the Assistant Winemaker, helping to oversee the farming of the historic Spottswoode Estate Vineyard and the making of the winery’s acclaimed wines.
In 2024, Molly made the transition to Global Sales and Environmental Manager, combining her passion for environmentalism, winemaking and communications. She holds a Certificate in Sustainable Business Strategy through Harvard Business School Online and manages Spottswoode’s B Corp certification and environmental initiatives, which includes measuring Spottswoode’s GHG emissions as part of their IWCA Gold membership. In addition to her work at Spottswoode, Molly sits on the executive committee of the Napa Green Board of Directors, and was a part of the Napa Valley Vintners’ Leadership Program in 2023/24.
Help us celebrate this historic milestone!!
100% of @napagreen’s Certified Vineyard members successfully phased out Roundup, setting a new standard for wine industry leadership.
Thank you to all of our members for your continued leadership and dedication to sustainability. Your choices impact meaningful change in our industry.
#climateaction #winebusiness #regenerativeag
What makes the #OneBlockChallenge so special? Hear from @regenerativeviticulture Co-Founder, @stephen_de_mirabeau!
The first informational session is next week so come with your questions. Learn more or get involved at the link in our bio.
#regenerativeag #regenerativeviticulture climateaction
@napagreen is a non-profit focused on climate action in the wine industry!
This #GivingTuesday consider donating any amount to support regenerative farming practices, sustainable wine production, and strengthening our community.
#climateaction #nonprofit
Happy Thanksgiving! We are so grateful for our incredible members and their teams, the community, our board, and all of the people who support climate action by drinking @napagreen certified wines!
Cheers! 🍂 🍁 🍃
#climateaction #nonprofit #wineindustry
Join us @beringervyds Hudson House on December 11th for wine and updates!
At the end of each year we like to bring together our team, members, and community to discuss some of the highlights from the past year, and what’s ahead in the new year.
➡️ Ticket link in bio.
#community #nonprofit #winetasting
What is regenerative viticulture and where do I even start?!?
Last week, @napagreen and @regenerativeviticulture launched the #OneBlockChallenge in Napa, creating an accessible pathway for growers to start with just one block, while providing support and mentorship for regenerative practices.
To hear the workshop recording from @chuckschembre or to learn more about the One Block Challenge or Napa Green Vineyard Certification, head to the links in our bio.
#climateaction #regenerativeag
@napagreen has a @candiddotorg GuideStar Gold Seal of Transparency, which shows our nonprofit’s commitment to accountability. It also let donors see insights into our organization and operation to make informed donation decisions!
Our valuable climate action work cannot happen without the support of our community, members, donors and sponsors!
Want to donate or make an impact in another way? Head to the link in our bio or reach out to connect.
#climateaction #nonprofit #nonprofitorganization
Day 2 of our Growing Regenerative Viticulture event was amazing!
We learned about the onsite regenerative practices from @bedrockmorgan and @j_neustadt, heard the technical side of how these practices work from @chuckschembre, learned sampling techniques from @soilrainandhope, and saw the data and insights from @sectormentor and @grape_cowboy.
Thanks to all who attended and to @bedrockwines for hosting!
➡️ To learn more about regenerative vineyard practices or to enroll in either the One Block Challenge or Napa Green Vineyard certification, head to the links in our bio.
#regenerativeag #climateaction #vineyardmanagement #oneblockchallenge #napagreen #regenerativeviticulture #soilhealth #biodiversity #carbonfarming
Today @napagreen and @regenerativeviticulture proudly launched the One Block Challenge in Napa, an initiative to encourage winegrowers to adopt regenerative viticulture practices on a manageable scale.
We heard from an incredible group of regenerative agriculture experts, practitioners, and leaders who shared valuable insights and success stories.
Thanks to our attendees, @opusonewinery for hosting, and our exceptional speakers: @chuckschembre @stephen_de_mirabeau @cainethompson @soilrainandhope @forrestellab and @hilarysgraves.
➡️ Visit the link in our bio to sign up for the One Block Challenge or learn more!
#regenerativeag #climateaction #vineyardmanagement #oneblockchallenge #napagreen #regenerativeviticulture #soilhealth #biodiversity #carbonfarming
Applications for the California Green Medal Sustainable Winegrowing Leadership Awards 2026 awards are now open!
California’s wine industry is a global leader in sustainable practices due to the dedication of its vineyards and wineries in setting high standards for: 🍇 Environmental stewardship
🍇 Being a responsible employer and community member
🍇 Implementing innovative and sustainable business practices
We invite you to apply for the California Green Medal Sustainable Winegrowing Leadership Awards to highlight your excellence!
Apply Now at greenmedal.org/apply.
#CAGreenMedal #SustainableWine #WineIndustry #Sustainability #SustainableWinegrowing
#CaliforniaGreenMedal #WineBusiness #Wine
What Do Consumers Ask Winemakers Most Often? Chimney Rock Has Some Answers
We love this @grapecollective conversation with @elizvianna, the Winemaker and GM @chimneyrockwinery!
#sustainablewine #winetasting #winebusiness #regenerativeag
We are thrilled to be nominated for the @napachamberofcommerce Community Benefit Organization of the Year!
🗳️ Cast your vote daily from now until November 21st. Link in bio!
#nonprofit #napavalley #chamberofcommerce
Congratulations to @phiferpavittwine on achieving both @napagreen Vineyard and Winery recertification!
Phifer Pavitt has mindfully cultivated a thriving ecosystem where every element - from insects and plants to earthly materials - serves a purpose and repurpose.
We invite you to book a tasting to explore their innovative Eco Barn, serene pollinator garden, and exemplary environmental stewardship practices. When you visit, you will discover wines that not only capture a sense of place but also embody a living testament to regenerative farming from soil to bottle.
#sustainablewine #climatesmart #napavalleywine #napavalley #winebusiness #sustainablewinery #wineindustry #sustainablebusiness #womenownedwinery #landstewardship #environmentalstewardship #regenerativeag
Congratulations to the 2025 @winebusinessmonthly Wine Industry Leaders!
We`re thrilled to see many of our members, partners, speakers, sponsors, and community leaders recognized for their innovative contributions and leadership in the wine industry!
Special thanks to @napavintners President and CEO, Linda Reiff, for championing environmental efforts in the Napa Valley wine industry by establishing the @napagreen program!
#winebusiness #wineindustry #environmentalstewardship #napavalleywine #napavalley
@tressabores is a truly climate smart winery. They hold both the Napa Green Vineyard and Napa Green Winery Certifications, with a holistic focus on regenerative and organic farming.
In partnership with @napagreen, Tres Sabores launched the “Circle of Sustainers” award program as a way to recognize guest’s support of the sustainable winery. The tasting fees from each selected guest’s experience will be donated in their name to support ongoing sustainability efforts by Napa Green in the Valley.
Book your visit now for a truly unforgettable sustainable winery experience.
📷 @soilrainandhope @tressabores @buddsocial
#sustainablewine #climatesmart #napavalleywine #napavalley #winebusiness #sustainablewinery #wineindustry #sustainablebusiness #winetasting #regenerativefarming #comeoveroctober
Congratulations to @fiordisolewines on achieving @napagreen Winery Certification. Fior di Sole – “Flower of the sun” – is a family-owned and operated wine company located in the heart of Napa Valley, producing exceptional quality wines from Napa and throughout California.
Fior Di Sole is committed to minimizing environmental impact and fostering a healthier planet for future generations. They provide comprehensive wine services, managing the entire process from concept creation, packaging design, winemaking, purchasing, compliance, quality assurance, and bottling, all while prioritizing sustainability.
#sustainablewine #climatesmart #napavalleywine #napavalley #winebusiness #sustainablewinery #wineindustry #sustainablebusiness
