IMPLEMENT: VITICULTURE ADAPTATION Managing for Climate-Adapted Vines Across all winegrowing regions of the world, climate change impacts are already apparent and demonstrate a multitude of challenges, most notably seasonal variability and chaotic weather fluctuations. Adapting vineyard development and viticultural practices to withstand stressors like heatwaves, droughts, floods and altered growing seasons ensures sustainability against ever-changing and unpredictable environmental conditions. To build resiliency to current and projected impacts, winegrape growers must make viticulture management decisions based on their vineyard’s vulnerabilities and risks in the face of climate change. The information below will help growers create flexible strategies and identify adaptation practices suitable for current and future challenges. Priority Practices Quick Links: Rootstocks & Scions Vineyard Design & Canopy Management Wildfire Preparedness Building Resiliency to Climate Change Impacts with Climate Smart Vineyard Design When planting or replanting a vineyard or block, there are key elements to vineyard design that can have lasting benefits in a changing climate. Most importantly, strategically choosing both rootstock and scion can improve the resilience of vineyards to climate change. Vineyard design considerations such as row orientation and trellising, along with canopy management practices can further increase the resilience of grapevines. By understanding the climate risks that are most likely for your vineyard site, you can tailor your selections and design considerations to address water stress, increased erosion potential, and/or high heat events. Selecting Rootstocks & Scions for Climate Resiliency When selecting rootstocks and scions to plant in a new or replanted vineyard, consider what climate change impacts are predicted for your region. Choosing rootstocks and scions that are well-suited for current and predicted changes from climate change will ensure your vineyard’s sustainability. Rootstock selection can affect vine growth, yield and disease resistance with limited influence on berry quality. Generally, high vigor rootstocks can better access water in dry years and have longer growing seasons, while low vigor rootstocks may better resist extreme drought because of their smaller canopies. Also consider rootstocks that resist soil-borne pests present in the region or pests that may be exacerbated by climate change. Various scions provide different adaptive benefits and can be more resilient to climate impacts such as increased drought, changing seasonality, extreme heat, frost, and pest and disease pressure. When choosing a scion consider: Phenology: Late-ripening varieties such as Grenache, Monastrelle and Petit Verdot can mitigate the effects of compressed development. Heat Tolerance: Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Grenache and Syrah are known to be better suited for warm climates. Drought Tolerance: Look for varieties with high water use efficiency to handle increased water stress. Cultivars associated with warm and dry climates, like Cabernet Sauvignon, may also be better suited for drought conditions. Rootstocks & Scions Changing Seasonality: Varietal-Specific Vulnerabilities Recent research describes how modeling for six winegrape varieties in 12 of California’s AVAs show potential changes in phenology and environmental conditions: Compressing of Development: Results show more rapid development for winegrapes with earlier budburst, flowering, veraison, and maturation across all varieties and AVAs. Cabernet Sauvignon shows the greatest change in phenology timing, while Chardonnay shows the least change. Projections of Pinot Noir development show chill being delayed by 1-3 weeks and maturity occurring 1-3 weeks earlier. More Extreme Heat: Heatwave events (extreme temperatures lasting for consecutive days) decrease berry size and influence berry chemistry which can impact yield and quality in many cultivars. Heatwaves can be hazardous to worker safety and productivity. Increased Water Demand: Warmer temperatures and more extreme heat days will increase water demand, which in some regions may be exacerbated by decreased winter precipitation which is necessary for soil moisture recharge. Less Changes in Warmer Climates: Warm-climate AVAs like Lodi and Madera will see less drastic changes in winegrape phenology than cooler-climate AVAs like West Sonoma Coast and SLO Coast. To learn more about the research findings including more specific information by AVA, watch this video summary or see the research paper, “A variety specific analysis of climate change effects on California Winegrapes” (Parker, et al., 2024). Vineyard Design & Canopy Management Can Help Regulate Extreme Temperature and Sun Exposure Vineyard design and canopy management practices can offer significant protection to grapevines against climate change. Vineyards designed with east-to-west trellising are more resistant to temperature extremes than those running north-south, although other factors such as site topography can influence the preferred orientation. Grapevines with elongated trunks are more resistant to temperature extremes than those close to the ground. Orienting vineyard rows to minimize erosion is also important, particularly when heavy rain events follow periods of dry weather that have diminished the soil’s capacity for water absorption. Using canopy management techniques like leaf thinning and shoot trimming can help regulate canopy temperature and sun exposure. Vineyard pruning and thinning practices may increase soil carbon storage if the extracted biomass remains in the vineyard. Similarly, the dropping of fruit can be a valuable carbon input. When developing a new vineyard site conserving existing native perennial vegetation can preserve sources of carbon storage. Planting hedgerows with native vegetation when existing plants cannot be maintained enhances the surrounding habitat by providing areas for beneficial insects to flourish to help with pest pressures. Vineyard Design & Canopy Mgmt Preparing for Wildfires Climate change is already creating changes in wildfire dynamics, leading to increases in extreme wildfire events, which can indirectly impact grape and wine quality through vineyard smoke exposure. Climate science shows these extreme wildfire events are likely to continue to increase in the future. It is important to ensure your property and staff are prepared for a potential fire. Visit the resources below to help you prepare. Wildfire Preparedness Resources: A Winegrower's Guide to Preparing for Wildfires : Includes a checklist with steps to take to reduce the risk of fire on your property and how to prepare your vineyard or winery staff in the event of a fire. West Coast Smoke Exposure Task Force : Includes relevant research and industry resources on best practices, crop insurance, wildfire preparedness, informational videos, etc. Wildfire Preparedness & Recovery Resources : Wine Institute has compiled resources to help winegrowers proactively prepare for the risk and threat from fire season. Wildfire Preparedness Viticulture Adaptation Resources: Viticulture Adaptation Implementation Guide : This guide provides details and resources about adaptation practices related to vineyard design and rootstock and scion selection. Managing California’s Vineyards for Resilience: Strategies for a Changing Climate : A summary handout of the findings of a recent literature review conducted by the USDA California Climate Hub that synthesizes the key climate change impacts that will affect California vineyards. Climate Change and California's Winegrapes : An educational webpage/StoryMap created by the USDA California Climate Hub that covers the projected impacts of climate change on winegrape phenology, the adaptation and mitigation strategies currently available to producers, and the gaps in research and technology that must be addressed to protect the future of winegrape production in the state.

IMPLEMENT: WINERY ENERGY EFFICIENCY & RENEWABLES Energy Use in Wineries The primary source of greenhouse gas emissions from winery operations stems from using electricity, diesel, and other fossil fuels to power facilities, machinery and vehicles. The main energy uses in a winery include refrigeration, lighting, pumps/motors, air compressors, water treatment, filtration, heating, vehicles and HVAC for occupied spaces. By reducing fuel and electricity usage in these systems and equipment, a winery can reduce its carbon footprint and help mitigate climate change. Reducing energy consumption also reduces energy costs which benefits the bottom line while conserving natural resources. Priority Practices Quick Links: Conduct an Energy Audit Optimize Energy Efficiency Electrify Equipment Power with Renewable Energy The Goal of Decarbonization One of the main objectives of climate action is decarbonization (using carbon-free renewable energy sources for all energy needs). To achieve decarbonization, first overall energy use must be reduced and optimized, then wherever possible equipment should be powered with electricity and finally, the sources of electricity should come from renewable energy such as solar and wind. Technology advances are still needed to efficiently electrify all winery equipment, such as hot water systems which are typically powered by fuel, however, there are many steps outlined below that can move your winery operation closer to decarbonization. 1. Conduct an Energy Audit Before installing a renewable energy system or implementing energy efficiency measures, an energy audit should be conducted. The intent of an energy audit is to assess energy-consuming processes and equipment to compile a list of potential changes in behavior or technology that can reduce overall energy consumption. This can result in immediate cost savings for any winery and provide more insight into production operations. Once energy consumption is minimized, then renewable energy options can be explored that will meet the winery’s energy needs, which can prevent added costs from installing renewable energy systems that provide more energy than needed. Use the following resource to assess your energy related practices, conduct an equipment inventory, prioritize potential efficiency opportunities and develop an energy management plan. Conduct an energy audit Resource: DIY Winery Energy Audit Tool : This do-it-yourself tool can be used internally by winery staff to assess energy-consuming processes and equipment and identify improvement opportunities. The tool is provided as an Excel document (which allows for automatic calculations and customized energy use charts) or a Word document and is accompanied by a tutorial video. 2. Optimize Energy Efficiency Once you have completed an energy audit, you can prioritize potential opportunities for efficiency. Since refrigeration is one of the largest sources of energy use in a winery, looking for opportunities to improve efficiency of your refrigeration system is a great place to start. The following list covers the main areas of energy used in a winery and are covered in detail in the DIY Winery Energy Audit Tool. Add relevant practices to your Climate Action Plan Worksheet to help track practices and create timelines for implementation, such as when equipment is due for an upgrade or maintenance. You can also run the CSWA Climate Smart Report to easily identify which energy efficiency practices are already implemented and where there are improvement opportunities. Equipment Air Compressors: Provide air used for specialized pumps and running bottling equipment. Pumps/Motors: High efficiency motors, variable frequency drives and automated controls can all be used to only pump and move the equipment/liquid volume needed. Filtration: Winery filtration equipment varies based on the winery but can have a noticeable impact on facility energy use. Boilers and Hot Water: Hot water is often responsible for much of a winery’s gas usage. Tanks: While tanks do not use energy directly, their operation directly impacts the performance of mechanical systems. Vehicles Onsite vehicles: Onsite vehicles include forklifts, trucks, ATVs, etc.that are directly owned by the winery. Offsite Vehicles: Off-site vehicles includetrucks, sales fleet, etc. that are directly owned or operated by the winery. Facilities Building Design: Building design can impact energy use by impacting the performance of mechanical systems. Lighting: Optimizing winery lighting reduces energy use, improves productivity and increases worker safety. Refrigeration: Accounts for approximately 30% of electric energy use for an average winery. HVAC: Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC) refers to energy used to control the air temperature of indoor spaces such as office space, barrel rooms, bottling lines, tasting rooms, case good warehouses, etc. Water Treatment: Treating process water is an important part of operating a winery for any location not connected to a city source and can account for a significant portion of total site electricity use. Optimize Energy Efficiency 3. Electrify Equipment As noted above, a large source of a winery’s carbon footprint is from the combustion of fossil fuels to operate winery equipment and systems. To decarbonize equipment, the equipment needs to be powered with electricity that can be sourced from renewable energy. As of June 2024, zero-emission electric forklifts are included in a California regulation designed to phase-out fuel powered forklifts to help California meet its climate goals through zero-emission technology. The transition to electric-powered transportation is in the early stages, with only some electric-powered vehicles currently cost effective. For instance: Light-duty electric vehicles are at or near price parity with fossil fuel powered vehicles for initial purchase price and can have lower energy and maintenance costs during vehicle use. Medium and heavy-duty electric vehicles are still often substantially more expensive for initial purchase, but some use cases can demonstrate lower total cost of ownership over the course of vehicle life. Electrification for non-road vehicle applications such as tractors, other hauling equipment, and lift trucks is also happening with mixed results. Charging infrastructure is an important consideration. Private charging (e.g. on-site, self-owned) is often desirable, but public charging networks are advancing in both scale and sophistication for many applications. Electrify Equipment 4. Power with Renewable Energy Many wineries install solar panels as part of their renewable energy strategies, with a growing number adding batteries for storage. Installing solar photovoltaic panels can be a great investment, especially as electricity costs continually increase. As of February 2025, the Federal Government offers a Tax Credit of up to 30% for zero-emissions energy projects. There are more options for incorporating renewable energy into your operations than rooftop solar panels. You can also explore floating solar panels on irrigation ponds and above parking lots, which has an added benefit of providing shade. Power with Renewable Energy Resources: Winery Energy Efficiency & Renewables - Implementation Guide : The guide outlines key practices and resources to support implementation of an energy audit, energy efficiency measures for winery equipment and lighting, and renewable energy, along with cost-share, rebate and incentive opportunities to help finance energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy.

IMPLEMENT: SUSTAINABLE PURCHASING & SUPPLIERS Supply Chains are a Significant Portion of Wine’s Carbon Footprint A significant part of any product’s carbon footprint, including wine, is attributed to the supply chain. Estimates vary, but anywhere from 50-80% of a wine’s carbon footprint comes from the supply chain. Therefore, addressing sustainability within the supply chain through procurement decisions and engaging with suppliers (along with optimizing transportation) is an important part of any climate action plan. Sustainable Purchasing Practices Can Reduce Wine’s Carbon Footprint Traditional procurement approaches often prioritize cost and efficiency over environmental and social considerations. Making procurement decisions with sustainability in mind means that environmental and social factors are also considered along with economic factors, which can reduce the carbon footprint of purchased products. Implementing sustainable purchasing practices can be accomplished in several steps: Set clear sustainability criteria : Sustainability requirements for products or services can be informal or included in a sustainable purchasing policy. The criteria can specify sustainability requirements such as use of recycled materials, energy efficient products, local sourcing, etc. Evaluate products and services : Evaluate your suppliers and their products based on your sustainability criteria and prioritize suppliers that align with your sustainability goals. Engage suppliers for information and to improve practices: Seek information from suppliers about their products if not readily available and collaborate with suppliers that are also interested in improving the sustainability of their practices and products. Vineyard & Winery Supply Chains - Scope 3 Emission Sources The GHGs attributed to Scope 3 (indirect emissions from the supply chain) encompass any activity not under direct responsibility of the vineyard or winery operation. These include activities such as: Purchased products (e.g., purchased grapes, winery equipment, vineyard inputs) Packaging materials (e.g., bottles, labels, closures, capsules, boxes) Outsourced transportation (e.g., delivery of purchased grapes, distribution of wine) Outsourced production (e.g., third-party harvest, bottling) Business travel (e.g., daily commutes, meetings, sales travel) Offsite waste management (e.g., landfill, recycling, composting) Post-consumption (e.g., disposal of wine containers) Collaborating with Supply Partners Can Drive Climate Action By actively collaborating with suppliers and emphasizing sustainable procurement practices, organizations can motivate their supply partners to minimize their environmental footprint. This approach can create ripple effects that extend far beyond your organization, promoting broader environmental and social responsibility across the entire industry. You can implement these sustainability strategies with both existing suppliers and when evaluating potential new supply partners. Resources: Sustainable Purchasing Implementation Guide : Details sustainable purchasing considerations and provides resources for creating a sustainable purchasing plan, engaging with suppliers, packaging and machinery. Supplier Questionnaire : Provides example questions for suppliers to assist with the screening process for products and services. Sustainable Purchasing Policy Template : Provides guidance for a sustainable procurement policy and includes a checklist for sustainable procurement and other useful resources.

IMPLEMENT: VINEYARD ENERGY EFFICIENCY & RENEWABLES Energy Use in Vineyards The combustion of fossil fuels during the operation of tractors, ATVs, irrigation pumps, and other farm equipment constitutes a large source of the vineyard carbon footprint . As such, reducing fuel and electricity usage is one of the most effective ways to reduce the vineyard carbon footprint and help mitigate climate change. Reducing energy use is also good for the bottom line since it reduces energy costs and conserves natural resources. Priority Practices Quick Links: Conduct an Energy Audit Optimize Energy Efficiency Electrify Equipment Power with Renewable Energy The Goal of Decarbonization One of the main objectives of climate action is decarbonization (using carbon-free renewable energy sources for all energy needs). To achieve decarbonization, first overall energy use must be reduced and optimized, wherever possible equipment should be powered with electricity and renewable energy such as solar and wind should be used. Technology advances are still needed to efficiently electrify all farm equipment, however, there are many steps outlined below that can move your vineyard operation closer to decarbonization. 1. Conduct an Energy Audit Before installing any renewable energy or implementing energy efficiency measures, an energy audit should be conducted. The intent of an energy audit is to assess energy-consuming processes and equipment and to compile a list of potential changes in behavior or technology that can reduce overall energy consumption. Once energy consumption is minimized, then renewable energy options can be explored that will meet the vineyard’s energy needs, which can prevent added costs from installing renewable energy systems that provide more energy than needed. The three main uses of energy in vineyard operations include the irrigation system, farm vehicles and tractors, and lighting of structures and outdoor task areas on the property (non-winery structures). Use the following resource to assess your energy related practices, prioritize potential opportunities and learn about resources for cost-share, rebates and incentives. 2. Optimize Energy Efficiency Once you have completed an energy audit, you can prioritize potential opportunities for efficiency. Energy efficiency practices for vineyards fall primarily into three categories: irrigation pump, vineyard vehicles and lighting. Since irrigation pumps are the one of largest sources of energy use it is important to ensure pumps are operating efficiently. An inefficient pump will use more energy than normally required and may not supply the pressure and flow appropriate to the demands of the pumping system. The result could be poor distribution uniformity and poor irrigation efficiency, leading to more water being pumped to fully irrigate the vineyard, which can impact winegrape quality and quantity. The following list of potential improvement areas are shown in order from highest impact on energy use to lowest to help with prioritization. Include relevant practices in Climate Action Plan Worksheet to help track practices and create timelines for implementation. You can also run the CSWA Climate Smart Report to easily identify which energy efficiency practices are already implemented and where there are improvement opportunities. Irrigation Pump Efficiency Vineyard Vehicles Lighting Office Equipment 3. Electrify Equipment As noted above, a large source of the vineyard carbon footprint is from combustion of fossil fuels for operation of vineyard vehicles and equipment. To decarbonize mobile and stationary field equipment, the equipment needs to be powered with electricity that can be sourced from renewable energy. Electrifying vineyard vehicles and equipment is one area that needs more research and advancements in technology, however there are some promising options available along with financing assistance. The transition to electric-powered vehicles and equipment is in the early stages, with only some options currently cost effective. For instance: Light-duty electric vehicles are at or near price parity with fossil fuel powered vehicles for initial purchase price and can have lower energy and maintenance costs during vehicle use. Medium and heavy-duty electric vehicles are still often substantially more expensive for initial purchase, but some use cases can demonstrate lower total cost of ownership over the course of vehicle life. Electrification for non-road vehicle applications such as tractors, other hauling equipment, and lift trucks is also happening with mixed results. Charging infrastructure is an important consideration. Private charging (e.g. on-site, self-owned) is often desirable, but public charging networks are advancing in both scale and sophistication for many applications. 4. Power with Renewable Energy Many vineyards and wineries install solar panels as part of their renewable energy strategies, with a growing number adding batteries for storage. Installing solar photovoltaic panels can be a great investment, especially as electricity costs continually increase. There is also currently a Federal Tax Credit that covers 30% of the cost of solar. There are more options for incorporating renewable energy into your operations than rooftop solar panels. You can also explore innovative technologies powered by the sun to pump water. Resources: Vineyard Energy Efficiency & Renewables - Implementation Guide : The guide outlines key practices and resources to support implementation of an energy audit, energy efficiency measures for irrigation pumps, vineyard vehicles, lighting and office equipment, and renewable energy, along with cost-share, rebate and incentive opportunities to help finance energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy.