April is California’s Down to Earth Month, a statewide celebration of sustainable winemaking. Wineries across the state host festivals, tastings and events that highlight environmentally conscious practices while showcasing local wines.
Passport to Dry Creek Valley (April 25–27)
More than 25 Dry Creek Valley wineries will open their doors for a weekend of tastings, food pairings, a welcome party and live music. The event offers opportunities to sample regional varietals, meet winemakers and learn about sustainable vineyard practices.
© Cliff Lede Vineyards
El Dorado Wines Passport Weekend (April 26–27)
In Placerville, more than 20 El Dorado wineries participate in a weekend of wine and food pairings. Attendees can purchase one- or two-day passes to visit participating tasting rooms and learn about the region’s mountain-grown wines and sustainable practices.
Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival (April 26–27)
One of the country’s longest-running Earth Day celebrations, Santa Barbara’s festival focuses on environmental stewardship. Visitors can sample local wines and beers, explore eco-friendly vendors and enjoy programming that promotes sustainable living.
© Vineyard to Vintner Weekend
Roots & Renewal: Down to Earth Month Vineyard Tour (April 19 and 26)
McGrail Vineyards in Livermore offers a 90-minute guided tour of its estate vineyard, focusing on sustainable farming and winemaking methods. The tour provides an inside look at soil health, biodiversity initiatives and other practices that support long-term vineyard resilience.
De Portola Wine Trail Big Red Fest (April 27)
In Temecula, 11 wineries on the De Portola Wine Trail present a self-guided tasting in which guests sample three red wines paired with a small bite prepared by a local chef. The event highlights regional reds and the culinary talent supporting the tasting experience.
© Benziger Family Winery
Wine Blending Seminar (April 27)
Tablas Creek Vineyard hosts a two-hour seminar and tasting led by its proprietor and director of winemaking. Participants learn blending techniques and have the chance to create and taste their own custom blend under the guidance of experienced vintners.
“Sustainability matters to wine consumers across the globe, which is why California’s wine community has worked so hard to become a world leader in sustainability and developed into one of the U.S.’ most highly value-added agricultural sectors,” said Robert P. Koch, president and CEO of the Wine Institute.