A group of Ukrainian winemakers recently visited Napa Valley, hosted by Grgich Hills Estate in partnership with the non-profit organization Roots of Peace. The visit focused on regenerative viticulture, climate change adaptation, and fostering hope for Ukraine’s wine industry amidst the ongoing conflict in their homeland.
This initiative provided the Ukrainian vintners with a brief respite from the devastation of the Russian invasion, which began in February 2022. The program emphasized regenerative wine-growing techniques and included site visits, cultural exchanges, and in-depth lessons on vineyard management, fermentation processes, and best practices in the industry.
Violet Grgich, president and CEO of Grgich Hills Estate, welcomed the delegation, highlighting the winery’s commitment to sharing knowledge. “We are deeply honored to share our expertise in regenerative practices with our Ukrainian colleagues,” Grgich said. “This program underscores our belief that agriculture can bridge cultures and support communities through the most challenging times.”
Ukraine’s emerging wine scene has captured the admiration of the global wine community for its resilience and determination. Appropriately, the program in Napa included lessons on vineyard resilience and climate change, drawing from Napa’s own experiences with wildfire recovery, biodiversity, and the impacts of climate change.
