Agriculture

Skipstone Receives Organic Certification, Goes Solar

  2008 NOV 24 - (VerticalNews.com) -- Owned and operated by Fahri Diner and Jill Layman, Skipstone Ranch is a Winegrowing and Olive Orchard estate that operates under strict standards of sustainability. Mr. Diner has been an entrepreneur in the high-tech industry and is a venture capitalist with a focus that includes green and sustainable businesses. It was natural for the couple to adopt an earth friendly philosophy at Skipstone Ranch, and they are proud to announce organic certification of their vineyards from California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF).

  This formal certification of the vineyards is a validation of earth friendly farming practices that have been a cornerstone of Skipstone since 2004. Certification requires a minimum three years of farming consistent with the strict standards of the CCOF farming code, which prohibits use of pesticides, herbicides, and chemical fertilizers.

  Stewarding the project is Winemaker Andrew Levi, renowned Winemaking Consultant Philippe Melka, and Organic Farming Consultant Amigo Bob Cantisano, who has been involved with some of Napa's most prestigious vineyards.

  Skipstone Ranch is a 200-acre estate located in the hills of Alexander Valley consisting of 30 acres of vineyards producing low yields of high quality Bordeaux varietals, 550 Manzanillo olive trees for producing extra-virgin olive oil that has been awarded five Gold Medals from the Los Angeles International Olive Oil Competition, and a sustainably farmed culinary garden. The ranch is now powered by a 35kW Photo Voltaic Solar System to offset its electrical energy consumption, and operates with a mindset of zero waste, maximum energy efficiency, and water conservation. "At Skipstone Ranch, we work tirelessly to maintain our land's harmony with nature, implementing sustainable farming practices that honor the integrity of the estate," said Jill Layman.

  An integral part of Skipstone is the small wine production. Skipstone recently released its inaugural vintage -- 2005 Oliver's Blend (500-case production) exclusively to their mailing list members.

  In addition to helping preserve the land for future generations, Skipstone believes that an uncompromising commitment to organic farming practices has had a direct impact on vine health and fruit flavor intensity as is beautifully reflected in its wines.

  For more information on Skipstone Ranch, please contact Brook Drummond, Director of Marketing and Public Relations at 707.433.9124 or email info@skipstoneranch.com or visit http://www.skipstoneranch.com/.

  Keywords: Skipstone Ranch.

  This article was prepared by VerticalNews Agriculture editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, VerticalNews Agriculture via VerticalNews.com.