By Blake Jackson
The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) has officially opened enrollment for the 2026 New York Sustainable Winegrowing Program (NYSWP), the state’s third party-certified initiative promoting sustainability in vineyards and wineries.
The program supports participants in continuous improvement, environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and long-term economic resilience.
The initiative continues to grow, with ten new vineyards achieving certification in 2025: Argetsinger Vineyard, Barnstormer Winery, Hermann J. Wiemer Nursery, Knapp Winery, Osprey’s Dominion Vineyards, RGNY Winery, Ria’s Vineyard, Sheldrake Point Winery, Tabora Farm & Winery, and Tuller Vineyard.
These additions reflect a rising number of producers embracing transparent, science-backed sustainability practices, enhancing New York’s reputation for responsible winegrowing.
Certification through NYSWP is based on VineBalance, New York’s sustainability standard developed from decades of research and collaboration within the industry. VineBalance is updated annually with feedback from participants and academic experts, ensuring it remains scientifically informed, regionally relevant, and adaptable to New York’s diverse growing areas.
New York’s leadership in sustainability has gained increased recognition in recent years. The New York Sustainable Winegrowing Trustmark, featured on bottles made from certified grapes, continues to grow in visibility, helping consumers identify wines produced with verified sustainable practices. Enhanced consumer tools, including a statewide interactive map launched in 2024, make it easier to explore certified vineyards and wineries.
The program has also been highlighted by publications like Wine Enthusiast and Wine Business Monthly, underlining New York’s position as a leader in credible, third party-verified sustainability.
“New York’s growers and wineries have always been deeply committed to their land and their communities, and the New York Sustainable Winegrowing Program gives them a clear, credible way to further demonstrate that commitment,” said Justin Jackson, Sustainability Program Manager at NYWGF.
“This certification isn’t about checking a box, it’s about strengthening the long-term health of our vineyards, our neighbors, and our businesses. If you’re ready to take a step toward certification, I’m here as a resource, from your first questions to your final audit.”
The NYSWP offers vineyards and wineries a practical, science-based roadmap to implement sustainability practices, support environmental health, protect farmworker and community wellbeing, and enhance long-term economic viability. Interested participants can learn more at newyorkwines.org/new-york-sustainable-winegrowing or contact Justin Jackson at justinjackson@nywgf.org.
Apply today to join the 2026 program.
Photo Credit: istock-jhvephoto
Categories: New York, Education, General