SIP Certified

SIP (Sustainability in Practice) Certified is a third-party certification program for vineyards and wineries that meet rigorous standards for sustainable farming. Developed in 2008 by the Vineyard Team and grounded in more than two decades of research in sustainable viticulture, the program evaluates the full farm system — covering soil health, cover crops, irrigation practices, wildlife habitat, native plants, and worker welfare. Independent auditors assess vineyards, with findings reviewed anonymously by a certification committee to ensure impartiality.

The certification is designed for wine grape growers and wine producers who want to formally demonstrate their commitment to environmental and social responsibility. Earning the SIP seal signals to consumers and trade buyers that a wine comes from a vineyard operating to verified sustainability standards. Currently, nearly 41,100 acres are eligible for SIP Certification, and approximately 2.6 million cases of wine carry the SIP seal annually.

For growers, participation in SIP Certified connects them to the broader Vineyard Team network, which offers ongoing education, field demonstrations, science-based resources, and peer-to-peer support for continuous improvement in sustainable practices. The program is primarily based in the United States but has reach extending to international markets.