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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.
@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
@napagreen we believe that every purchasing decision is an opportunity to make a positive impact. That’s why we actively encourage our members to carefully consider their choices, especially when it comes to branded merchandise. We are proud to partner with our sponsor, @jonahmarketing, a company that shares our commitment to responsible and sustainable practices.
We invite all Napa Green members and businesses committed to sustainability to reach out to Jonah Marketing for a custom consultation to help you curate a selection of sustainable merchandise that not only aligns with your brand but also authentically communicates your unique sustainability story to your clients, partners, and employees.
Every piece of branded merchandise you choose tells a story about your organization. Let’s tell a sustainable story together.
#winebusiness #greenbusiness #sustainablebusiness #greenpurchasing #purchasingpower #wineindustry
@napagreen`s Executive Director @abrittain is speaking at @sustainabilityindrinks in London on Tuesday, October 21!
The event brings together industry leaders and policymakers to address sustainability challenges. Anna will join a panel on Labour Standards Across the Supply Chain.
#sustainablebusiness #sustainablewine #conference
Check out our incredible lineup of speakers who will be sharing practical strategies for building soil health, enhancing agroecosystem resilience, and producing exceptional quality grapes!
Join the two-day deep dive workshop, Growing Regenerative Viticulture, on November 18 and 19, 2025 @opusonewinery and @bedrockwines.
Open to @napagreen members and anyone interested in growing their regenerative leadership.
Ticket link in bio. This event will sell out so get your tickets soon!
#climateaction #regenerativeag #regenerativefarming #viticulture #wineindustry #soilhealth #workshop
Congratulations on achieving @napagreen Winery Certification to @camomiwinery, a family owned winery heartcrafting exceptional wines in the Napa Valley!
The @fiordisolewines facility, where they produce their wines, is not only water and energy efficient, they also maintain rigorous recycling standards. Beyond that, the bottling line is certified by @ccoforganic, ensuring that the production processes meet stringent organic standards.
#sustainablewine #climatesmart #napavalleywine #napavalley #winebusiness #sustainablewinery #wineindustry #sustainablebusiness
@napagreen has been a proud @1percentftp Environmental Partner since 2020!
Businesses and individuals can support Napa Green’s critical work in climate action, regenerative carbon farming, and social equity within the wine industry through 1% For The Planet’s environmental giving platform.
We are grateful to 1% For The Planet’s dedication to brining businesses and environment organizations together to support people and the planet!
Thank you to our 1% For The Planet Business partners @spottswoodewinery @patagonia @anarchistwineco and @mp_egan39!
#climateaction #regenerativeag #climatesmart #nonprofit #onepercentfortheplanet #environmentalgiving #socialequity
Congratulations @bellaunionwine on achieving @napagreen Winery recertification!
Powered by @mcecleanenergy Deep Green 100% Renewable Energy, Bella Union believes in minimizing their environmental impact, maximizing care for their ecosystems, and making a difference in the lives of their employees and community.
Explore their beautiful tasting room, featuring an artist-in-residence program, and discover the passion and quality in every glass.
#sustainablewine #climatesmart #winetasting #napavalleywine #napavalley #winebusiness #sustainablewine #sustainablewinery
Congratulations to these @napagreen Certified Members for winning the @greatwinecapitals Napa Valley Regional Best of Wine Tourism Awards!
🌟@sterlingvineyards for Innovative Wine Tourism Experiences
🌟 @chandonusa for Sustainable Wine Tourism Practices
🌟 @cliffamily for Culinary Experiences
Thank you for your commitment to excellence and sustainability!
#visitnapa #visitnapavalley #winetasting #ecotourism #climatesmartwine #sustainablewine #sustainablewines #winecountry
JOIN US for an inspiring two-day deep dive into regenerative viticulture, designed to equip growers with practical strategies for building soil health, enhancing agroecosystem resilience, and producing exceptional quality grapes.
November 18, 2025 @opusonewinery
November 19, 2025 @bedrockwines
This event is for anyone interested in growing their leadership.
🎟️ Ticket link in bio.
#regenerativefarming #regenerativeag #winebusiness #vineyard #climateaction #climatesmart #soilhealth #regenerativeviticulture
Congratulations @ilsleyvineyards on achieving @napagreen Vineyard Certification!
With four generations farming over six decades and over 100 years of history in the Napa Valley, the Ilsley family is committed to elevating their vineyard and farming practices. The Napa Green Vineyard Certification aligns with this whole property approach to farming, encompassing the full agroecosystem – from what is happening underground in the soil, to what is happening in the atmosphere, to how this impacts the broader community.
Thank you for being regenerative farming leaders!
#regenerativeag #regenerativefarming #wineindustry #sustainablewine #climatesmart #napavalleywine #napavalley #landstewardship #winebusiness
@frankfamilyvineyards is not only both @napagreen Vineyard and Winery Certified, they have also partnered with @4ocean to support ocean and coastline cleanups!
Check out this outstanding winery to learn more about their leading sustainability practices and this amazing initiative! 🌊
#climateaction #winebusiness #winetasting #napavalley #napavalleywine #coastalcleanup #oceancleanup #visitnapavalley #climatesmartwine #regenerativeag
Congratulations to one of our founding members, @stsupery on achieving both @napagreen Vineyard and Winery recertification!
St Supery’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and continuing improvement is evident throughout their business. When visiting the tasting room, guests are greeted by cheerful Bluebirds that live in the strategically placed bird boxes to act as natural pest control. From there, you pass by the culinary gardens that are incorporated into the farm-to-table pairings, to the stunning tasting room where you can see the solar energy generated to power the property in real-time, and learn about all of the incredible sustainability initiatives from soil to bottle.
Thank you St Supery for your commitment to the community, land stewardship, and sustainable leadership!
#sustainablewine #climatesmart #winetasting #napavalleywine #napavalley #regenerativeag #landstewardship #winebusiness
In celebration of their 40th anniversary vintage, the Novak family of @spottswoodewinery has donated a complete 40-vintage vertical collection of their Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (1982-2021), plus an invitation to their exclusive annual vertical tasting, which is available through @christieswine to support the nonprofit, @napagreen, a leader in sustainability and climate action in the wine industry.
@mkshepp of Spottswoode shares, “As we celebrate 40 years of organic farming and work to change paradigms and build resilience through regenerative systems, we see Napa Green as a vital partner in expanding that mission across the wine industry. This auction isn’t just about Spottswoode’s history; it’s an investment in the future of winegrowing that prioritizes the health of our natural environment, our workers, and our community.”
#winetasting #winelover #winecollector #winecollection #finewine #fineandrarewines
LAST CHANCE to bid on this @christieswine Fine and Rare Wines lot, featuring a 19-magnum vertical of @opusonewinery vintages 2001-2019 hand-selected and signed from the private collection of @opus_one_winemaker, Michael Silacci, as well as an Opus One Harvest Experience for four.
#winetasting #winelover #winecollector #winecollection #finewine #fineandrarewines
Michael Silacci, @opus_one_winemaker, has hand-selected an extraordinary vertical of @opusonewinery magnums from his private collection, which are available through @christieswine to support the nonprofit @napagreen, a leader in sustainability and climate action in the wine industry.
“Napa Green plays a vital, fundamental role in grape growing within and beyond the vineyard boundaries in Napa Valley,” said Michael Silacci. “The team, comprised of experts in all essential elements of farming and stewardship, provides education, guidance, and holds us accountable. Year after year they continue to evolve and challenge us to be better citizens. I want to do all I can to help Napa Green rise. Napa Green not only strengthens our community but also inspires a deeper sense of purpose – within ourselves, and in how we care for the land we love so dearly.”
#winetasting #winelover #winecollector #winecollection #finewine #fineandrarewines
