(Wines&Vines) - Most wineries have a medal—or many—from competitions where their wines have shone. But winners of the first annual California Green Medal will be among an elite group. The California Sustainable Winegrowing Leadership program has launched a competition in which only four medals will be awarded next spring: one each in the categories of leadership, environment, community and business. 

Open only to California vineyards and wineries that actively participate in one or more of the state’s sustainability programs, the competition process requires extensive detail and documentation. Organizers expect most entries to be self-nominating. 

The concept for the awards began gestating during the formation of the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA), which launched in 2010. Allison Jordan, CSWA executive director, told Wines & Vines, “The idea came out of discussions with growers/vintners during 2007 and has been percolating for some time.”

CSWA’s steering commission selected a panel of knowledgeable judges and affiliates who are familiar with the crucial tenets of sustainability: economic, environmental and social equity, known as the “Three E’s.” Three of the medals will focus on these, while the winner of the leadership medal will incorporate all in a meaningful manner. Entrants may apply for one or all of the categories.