The Heart of California's Wine Economy
The Economic Power of California Winegrapes
California is the nation’s leading wine state, producing 81 percent of all U.S. wine. Globally, California ranks as the fourth-largest wine producer—trailing only Italy, France, and Spain.
Winegrapes are grown on 565,000 acres across 49 of the state’s 58 counties, with more than 110 different varieties cultivated. Wine is also California’s No. 4 export commodity, valued at $1.44 billion.
California’s winegrape growers are at the heart of an industry that fuels jobs, supports local economies, and drives billions in economic activity across the state. From rural communities to global markets, the impact of our vineyards is far-reaching and vital.
The latest Economic Impact Report, produced in partnership with CAWG and the Wine Institute, offers an in-depth look at the wine and winegrape industry’s contributions to California’s economy.
Sustainability in Action
California’s Commitment to the Future of Winegrowing
What is the CCSW Certification?
Administered by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA) — a joint initiative of the California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) and the Wine Institute — the CCSW certification is one of the most comprehensive and rigorous sustainability programs in the wine industry. It evaluates a grower’s practices across over 140 criteria, including water use efficiency, energy conservation, habitat preservation, soil health, and labor practices.
To become certified, participants must:
- Conduct a detailed self-assessment across key sustainability areas
- Implement best practices and continuous improvements
- Undergo third-party audits to verify performance and integrity
CAWG’s Role
CAWG helped establish CSWA in 2003 and continues to be a driving force behind the program’s success. We work closely with CSWA to support grower education, encourage participation, and ensure that the program remains science-based, practical, and impactful. CAWG believes that voluntary, grower-driven sustainability efforts are the most effective way to improve practices while keeping California’s winegrape industry strong and resilient.
By the Numbers: Sustainability at Scale
The CCSW program has grown steadily over the past two decades, reflecting the strong values of California growers:
- 2,400+ vineyards and 180+ wineries are now CCSW Certified
- Over 80% of California wine is produced in a CCSW Certified winery
- More than 50% of California’s winegrape acreage is certified sustainable
- 1.2 million acres of vineyard self-assessments have been completed through CSWA’s educational tools
learn more about ccsw certification
Learn more about the program at sustainablewinegrowing.org, and join CAWG in celebrating the growers who are leading California toward a more sustainable future.