At Niner Wine Estates in Paso Robles, CA, the pursuit of sustainability is clear. Guided by the philosophy that one must choose between chasing yield or chasing quality, Andy Niner and Craig Macmillan choose quality to go along with sustainability. Their commitment to a holistic, herbicide-free approach is evident in their three SIP-certified vineyards. This dedication to unique, site-specific solutions underlies their water, soil, and pest management practices. Below, we discuss sustainable water, soil, and pest and disease management options.
Water Management
Water management adheres to a “reduce, recapture, recycle” motto, integrating sustainability into the very foundation of Niner Wine Estates operations. From its inception, the estate was designed with rainwater capture in mind, successfully collecting 1.5 million gallons this year from roofs alone — enough to irrigate 10 acres. Additionally, the estate collects gray water, further minimizing its environmental footprint. Advanced tools such as moisture monitors, depth sensors in ponds and pumps, alongside traditional boots-on-the-ground inspections, play a crucial role in their water management strategy. These methods not only quantify but also help project future water availability for the vines.
Soil Management
Soil management at Niner Wine Estates is revolutionized through an innovative composting program. What began as a measure for waste management by recycling skins and stems from winemaking has evolved organically. The estate expanded its composting inputs by adding waste from the kitchen, garden, and landscaping, continually optimizing the process through observation and adaptation. The focus is on maintaining a rich blend of carbon, nitrogen, and occasionally incorporating grazing to enhance soil structure. This practice not only fosters healthier soil but also bolsters organic matter.
Pest & Disease Management
In the realm of pest and disease management, Niner Wine Estates emphasizes rigorous monitoring above all else. The estate understands that while tall cover crops can offer ecological benefits, they also have the potential to harbor voles, mice, and increase gopher populations. This challenge arises not only due to the undisturbed nature of these habitats but also because predators are less able to locate and control these pests. To mitigate these risks, Niner Wine Estates strategically incorporated owl boxes around the property. Sustainability includes leveraging nature’s own mechanisms for maintaining balance.If you want to learn more about vineyard sustainability, check out https://www.vineyardundergroundpodcast.com/vu053.
