A solar powered winery
In the late '90s Sierra Vista was the first winery in the El Dorado AVA to install photovoltaic solar panels at the winery.  A 14.4kw system was installed on the roof of the winery and reduced energy consumption from the grid by around 94% in the first month after it was fully operational.  We are proud to have done this before it became really politically correct.  We are an eco-friendly winery.

Sierra Vista practices Sustainable Agriculture
Many years ago when we saw that erosion was taking place in the vineyard we started practicing sustainable agriculture by implementing methods to stop the erosion.  Since then we have developed methods in other areas of farming to allow us to be considered a sustainable agricultural operation.  A sustainable agricultural operation is one that, over the long term, enhances environmental quality and the resource base on which agriculture depends; provides for basic human food and fiber needs; is economically viable; and enhances the quality of life for farmers and society as a whole.”  The Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program at University of California, Davis (UC SAREP) emphasizes that sustainable agriculture integrates 3 main goals—environmental health, economic profitability, and social and economic equity.

Sierra Vista Winery produces  Rhone Style wines from Syrah (Shiraz), Rousanne and Viognier. Because of our varied micro- climates due to the mountain terrain we also have suitable terroir for Mourvedre, Cinsault and Grenache.     Our first plantings in 1974, 1976, and 1982 were Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Chardonnay.  These vines were planted on their own roots, that is they were not grafted onto rootstock.  Check out the vineyard page for a discussion of own rooted vines.