New York Sustainable Winegrowing builds momentum in 2026, offering growers a clear path to certification and long-term environmental and community impact.
The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) today announced that enrollment is officially open for the 2026 New York Sustainable Winegrowing Program (NYSWP), the statewide, third-party-certified sustainability initiative for vineyards and wineries committed to continuous improvement, environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and long-term economic resilience.
The program continues to build momentum, with ten new vineyards achieving certification for 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. Their participation reflects a growing network of producers who are investing in transparent, science-backed sustainability practices that strengthen New York’s reputation for responsible winegrowing.
Certification through the NYSWP is grounded in VineBalance, New York’s sustainability standard shaped by decades of research and industry collaboration. VineBalance is annually updated with feedback from participants and NY academics to reflect the latest viticultural best practices. This ensures the standard is regionally relevant, scientifically informed, and adaptable across New York’s diverse growing regions.
Over the past year, New York’s sustainability leadership has gained increasing recognition. The New York Sustainable Winegrowing Trustmark, which appears on bottles of New York wine made from grapes grown in certified vineyards, continues to grow in visibility and has become a meaningful source for consumers looking for verified sustainable practices. In addition, NYWGF introduced enhanced consumer tools, including an interactive statewide map launched in 2024, making it easier than ever for consumers to discover certified vineyards and wineries throughout the state. Publications such as Wine Enthusiast and Wine Business Monthly have also highlighted New York’s role 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 New York Sustainable Winegrowing Program provides vineyards and wineries with a practical, science-based roadmap for implementing sustainability practices that support environmental health, safeguard farmworker and community wellbeing, and reinforce the long-term economic viability of New York’s wine industry. Built around continuous improvement and third-party verification, the program helps producers gain access to resources, peer support, and increased consumer visibility while advancing statewide leadership in responsible viticulture.
Growers and wineries interested in joining the 2026 program year are encouraged to learn more at newyorkwines.org/new-york-sustainable-winegrowing or contact Justin Jackson at justinjackson@nywgf.org.
