We are proud to share that Ancient Peaks is participating in the One Block Challenge organized by the Paso Robles CAB Collective. This initiative challenges member wineries to convert at least one vineyard block to “regenerative organic farming” to assess the outcomes and possibilities.
Our estate Margarita Vineyard was originally planted by the Robert Mondavi family as a model of sustainability, and it has been Sustainability in Practice (SIP) Certified for 15 years. We are now exploring regenerative organic agriculture, which focuses on improving soil health with practices that include cover crops, crop rotation and no tillage. These practices promote “carbon sequestration” in the soil, which helps offset the impacts of climate change while making the farmland more resilient.
“We are super proud of what we have done already with our sustainable farming program at Margarita Vineyard, and we see this as an opportunity to ratchet up the stakes and test the benefits of regenerative agriculture,” says Founding Winemaker Mike Sinor.
Challenge Accepted
For the One Block Challenge, we’ve chosen our Block 15 Cabernet Sauvignon, which is planted to ancient sea bed soils at the Oyster Ridge area of Margarita Vineyard. Here, we will plant an abundant mix of cover crops. The ground will remain untilled, and the vines will be fed with an organic compost tea. All practices will be organic.
Mike notes that the cover crops will include broad-leaf legumes that promote “nitrogen giving.” When these legumes are mowed and composted back into the ground, they infuse the soil with natural nutrients that impart healthy vine growth.
So how will the success of this program be assessed? “We will be able to compare the results in terms of yields, phenolics, vine health and other measurables,” Mike says. “It’s a can’t-lose proposition. We know it’s good for the environment and the community, and we’re confident it will be good for the wines, too. We’ll see where it takes us.”
He adds, “For now, it’s just great to be part of a collective effort that advances our region’s reputation for being at the forefront of sustainable farming.”