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Sequoia Grove Winery Cultivates Sustainability
Rooted in Responsibility
view of sequoia trees from the ground for Sequoia Grove article
PHOTOs COURTESy OF Sequoia Grove

The ancient redwood trees on Sequoia Grove’s Rutherford property aren’t simply the inspiration for the winery’s name—they help shape the winery’s values. With their remarkable strength and longevity, these trees serve as both symbol and guide for Sequoia Grove’s long-term vision: to craft exceptional wines while protecting the land for generations to come.

Here, sustainability isn’t just for show; it’s a deeply held value.

“Sustainability isn’t a trend or a checklist,” says Jonathan Wendorf, Director of Consumer Sales & Marketing. “It’s how we show respect—for the land we steward, the community we’re part of, and every guest who walks through our doors.”

That philosophy runs through every corner of the winery’s operations. Guests may not notice every water sensor or composting system during a visit—but that’s intentional. Sequoia Grove’s commitment to sustainability isn’t flashy. It’s foundational.

The winery is proudly certified under the Napa Green Winery & Land program and was one of the first five wineries to meet its most rigorous, updated standards. This third-party certification evaluates performance across climate action, water efficiency, soil health, and social equity.

 

hands with dirt on person wearing jeans for Sequoia Grove article

Sustainability in the Vineyard and Winery

In the vineyards, Sequoia Grove lets nature support nature. Soil-specific cover crops and mulching practices reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers while enhancing biodiversity and carbon sequestration. Precision irrigation conserves water, and integrated pest management replaces chemicals with hand-weeding and natural pest control.

Inside the winery, energy efficiency drives every decision. Lighting and cellar systems are managed with digital controls to minimize usage. The grounds are landscaped with drought-tolerant plants, water usage is monitored monthly, and stormwater is filtered through bioswales. Even packaging reflects the mission—favoring post-consumer materials, curbside-recyclable components, and compostable options.

Through its partnership with Marin Clean Energy’s Deep Green program, the winery now runs on 100% renewable electricity. It is also a Certified Napa Green Business, further underscoring Sequoia Grove’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint—without compromising wine quality.

 

Giving Back and Looking Forward

Sequoia Grove’s environmental stewardship extends beyond its own property. As a proud member of 1% for the Planet, the winery donates to vetted nonprofits focused on climate and conservation. Among the recipients is the Save the Redwoods League, a century-old organization dedicated to preserving California’s iconic redwood forests—a meaningful partnership for a winery so deeply rooted in these towering symbols of resilience.

Even the shipping process embodies this ethos. All orders ship carbon-neutral, with drain-safe gel packs for temperature control and plantable seed paper liners included in six- and twelve-bottle shipments.

From soil to cellar, from bottle to box, Sequoia Grove is proving that sustainability and luxury winemaking are not at odds—they are inherently intertwined.

“We believe great wine should do more than taste exceptional,” Wendorf says. “It should do good.”

For more information: sequoiagrove.com

 

Related Articles:
// A Visit to Sequoia Grove
// Sequoia Grove’s Wine Tasting Experiences