Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars becomes Regenerative Organic Certified® status, the first estate in Napa Valley’s Stags Leap District to achieve for its vineyards.
In a groundbreaking step for Napa Valley, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars—the winery that first put California wine on the world map—has become the first estate in the Stags Leap District to achieve Regenerative Organic Certified® (ROC™) status.
This certification, overseen by the Regenerative Organic Alliance (ROA), represents the highest global standard for organic agriculture. It integrates three key pillars—soil health, animal welfare, and social fairness—into one comprehensive framework, setting a new benchmark for environmental and ethical stewardship in the wine industry.
“Our dedication to ROC™ honors our legacy and passion for the place and our people that has existed since our founding,”
Guillermo Perez
Vineyard Manager at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars.
“Regenerating the soil, increasing biodiversity, improving vine health, supporting and protecting our team, and planning for the future of farms and farmers are core to our beliefs.”
A Landmark for Napa Sustainability
Founded in 1970 by the Winiarski family, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars forever changed American wine when its 1973 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon triumphed at the 1976 Judgment of Paris—a moment that established Napa Valley among the world’s great wine regions.
Now, nearly fifty years later, the winery is again leading by example. Its two historic vineyards—Stag’s Leap Vineyard (S.L.V.) and FAY Vineyard—earned ROC™ certification after a rigorous three-year process initiated by Perez in 2020.
Under his leadership, the winery implemented regenerative practices designed to restore soil vitality, promote biodiversity, and improve long-term vineyard resilience. Key initiatives included:
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Soil renewal and carbon sequestration through composting and cover cropping
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Water and energy conservation systems to minimize environmental impact
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Habitat restoration and landscape regeneration to support pollinators and native wildlife
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Farmer and worker fairness programs ensuring equitable labor conditions
“The vineyard is more energetic than ever before,” Perez said. “When you walk through it, you feel the energy of life and the biodiversity.”
A Living Legacy Rooted in Responsibility
For Winemaker Marcus Notaro, this certification goes beyond sustainability—it’s about honoring place and people.
“We grow wine in a very special place and have a deep sense of pride in where we are rooted,” said Notaro.
“It’s imperative that we protect it so we can continue making great wines for decades to come. We’re just at the beginning of this ROC™ journey, and I can’t wait to see and taste what the future holds.”
This achievement builds on Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars’ long-standing environmental commitment. The winery is already:
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Napa Green Certified (since 2017)
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California Certified Organic Farming (CCOF)
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Fish-Friendly Farming (FFF) Certified
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California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA) Certified (2022–2023)
Each certification reinforces the winery’s dedication to crafting wines that express the terroir of its estate vineyards while protecting the land for future generations.
What Regenerative Organic Certified® Means
The Regenerative Organic Certified® label, established by the Regenerative Organic Alliance, builds upon USDA Organic standards and adds crucial criteria for climate resilience, biodiversity, and ethical labor. ROC™ certification ensures that every bottle of wine bearing its mark contributes positively to both the planet and the people behind it.
As consumers become more conscious of sustainability, this certification provides transparency and accountability—proof that great wine and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
To learn more about the ROC™ standard, visit regenorganic.org.
Mini FAQ: Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ROC™ Certification
Q1: What makes ROC™ different from regular organic certification?
ROC™ builds on USDA Organic standards by adding strict benchmarks for soil regeneration, animal welfare, and social fairness, creating a more holistic sustainability model.
Q2: Which vineyards at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars are certified?
Both estate vineyards—Stag’s Leap Vineyard (S.L.V.) and FAY Vineyard—are now Regenerative Organic Certified®.
Q3: How does this impact wine quality?
Healthier soils and balanced ecosystems lead to stronger vines and richer fruit expression, enhancing texture, complexity, and long-term vineyard vitality.
A Legacy Renewed
From the Judgment of Paris to the dawn of regenerative viticulture, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars continues to lead Napa Valley into its next chapter—where sustainability, craftsmanship, and community go hand in hand.
Wine lovers can now enjoy every sip knowing that each bottle reflects a deep respect for nature and a commitment to future generations.
For more information, visit stagsleapwinecellars.com.
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars becomes Regenerative Organic Certified® status, the first estate in Napa Valley’s Stags Leap District to achieve for its vineyards.
