Celebrating Sustainable Winemaking: French Valley Vineyard's SIP Certification Journey
In the heart of Michigan's scenic Leelanau County, French Valley Vineyard and our partner vineyard, Bel Lago Vineyard, Winery & Cidery, and Bel Lago North Farm, proudly marks a significant stride in our sustainable journey. It brings us immense pride to share our recent achievement of the prestigious SIP (Sustainability In Practice) Certification. This milestone underscores our unwavering commitment to eco-conscious winemaking, our local community, and the esteemed patrons who support us.
Understanding the Importance of SIP Certification
SIP Certified represents a pinnacle of sustainable achievement in the viticulture domain, offering assurance to wine lovers that their preferred wines are crafted with the highest regard for both people and the environment. This distinguished certification is the culmination of rigorous third-party verification, highlighting our dedication to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
The Three Pillars of SIP Certification: People, Planet, and Prosperity
People: At the core of SIP Certification lies our commitment to our community, reflected through our engagement in community services, philanthropy, employee welfare, and ongoing education.
Planet: We are at the forefront of combating climate change, championing renewable energy, recycling, habitat preservation, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as part of our SIP Certified commitment.
Prosperity: Our approach integrates environmental conservation with viable economic practices, ensuring our vineyard's enduring success and sustainability for future generations.
Foundational Values of SIP Certification
SIP Certification rests on seven core principles:
- Social Responsibility
- Water Management
- Safe Pest Management
- Energy Efficiency
- Habitat Conservation
- Ethical Business Practices
- Continuous Improvement and Evolution
These values guide our endeavors to care for our land and community with respect and integrity.
The Growth and Impact of SIP Certification
Originally a pilot program, SIP Certification has expanded to include over 47,000 acres of vineyards across California, Oregon, and Michigan. In Michigan, it supports five wineries, including French Valley and Bel Lago, and influences over 60.3 million bottles of wine. This growth makes it simpler for consumers to choose wines that reflect their ethical and environmental values.
Reflections on Our Sustainability Journey
John Heekin remarks on our path: "Sustainability is the essence of what we do. Achieving SIP certification mirrors our deep-seated dedication to the land that nourishes us."
Charlie Edson, founder and Ph.D in viticulture and oenology, notes: "Since our inception, sustainability has been a cornerstone of French Valley's philosophy. Our pursuit of sustainable, innovative practices in viticulture and winemaking elevates our wines and reaffirms our commitment to sustainability."
Our Commitment to a Sustainable Future
As proud bearers of the SIP Certification, we pledge to continue leading in sustainable practices, leveraging the latest scientific and technological advancements. Our dedication goes beyond crafting exceptional wines; it's about honoring our planet and uplifting our community.
We invite you to celebrate this landmark achievement and toast a greener, more sustainable future in winemaking. Cheers to progress, excellence, and sustainability!