Sustaining the Land: How Somerston Estate Cultivates a Future in Balance

At Somerston Estate, sustainability is not a statement — it’s a way of life. Every vine, every hill, and every hand that tends them is part of a living system built on respect, restraint, and renewal. Our goal is simple: to work in harmony with nature, never against it.

A Living Vineyard Ecosystem

Our vineyards thrive as part of a balanced ecosystem. Owl boxes line the hillsides, offering natural rodent control, while low, permanent cover crops protect the soil, reduce erosion, and limit the need for heavy machinery. Herbicides are used sparingly and only at the base of vines, helping prevent runoff and preserve the purity of our watershed.

Beneath the surface, precision tools guide thoughtful decisions. Soil sensors measure moisture and energy to ensure each vine receives only what it needs to thrive. Petiole analyses reveal when nutrients are truly required, and compost teas enrich the soil naturally through our drip system — sustaining life from the roots up.

As Founding Winemaker Craig Becker once said, “Our guiding mission at Somerston is to operate systemically — as a sustainable, efficient, and land-focused project.” That guiding philosophy continues to shape every decision we make.

Regenerative Viticulture: Where Innovation Meets Intention

Sustainability at Somerston Estate begins with regenerative farming — the practice of giving back to the land as much as we take from it. Responsible pruning encourages balanced growth and healthy yields, while canopy management enhances air circulation and sunlight exposure, naturally reducing disease pressure.

We also embrace innovation in support of our team and environment. Automatic tying machines, for instance, enable our vineyard crew to work more efficiently, and one of our systems utilizes natural jute thread — a biodegradable and gentle option for both the vine and the soil.

Water: The Lifeblood of the Estate

Water conservation is one of the cornerstones of our stewardship. Through advanced drip irrigation, our vines receive precise hydration with minimal waste. Soil moisture sensors and weather forecasting data inform when and how much to irrigate, reducing runoff and preserving our reservoirs, which form the heart of Somerston’s self-sustaining water system.

These practices not only conserve this precious resource but also ensure that our vines and environment flourish in balance.

Preserving Biodiversity and Natural Habitats

Somerston Estate’s 1,615-acre property is a diverse landscape of rolling hills, valleys, and native flora — and we take our responsibility to protect it seriously. Maintaining natural habitats around our vineyards encourages beneficial insects and pollinators, which in turn strengthen the health of our vines.

We practice integrated pest management (IPM), relying on natural predation rather than chemical intervention. Cover crops enrich the soil, improve water retention, and provide a haven for biodiversity. This harmony between vineyard and wilderness builds resilience in the face of climate variability — and enriches the character of our wines.

The Heart Behind the Practice

Our sustainability story is as much about people as it is about place. Director of Vineyard Operations, Jake Knobloch, has dedicated his life to agriculture, guided by the mentorship of Craig Becker. Together, they built a philosophy rooted in curiosity, care, and continuous improvement — one that the Somerston team continues to uphold today.

“Our goal is always to do better,” says Jake. “Every decision, from soil to cellar, is made with the understanding that this land will outlast us — and it’s our duty to ensure it thrives.”

A Legacy for the Future

For Somerston Estate, sustainability is not a trend or a checklist — it’s a legacy. Each thoughtful choice, from vineyard to winery, reflects our enduring respect for the land and the natural rhythms that define it.

We invite you to visit Somerston Estate and experience firsthand how responsible stewardship shapes the wines we craft and the world we leave behind. Because caring for the land is more than a philosophy — it’s the foundation of who we are.