California Ag Network

Tag: Farm-to-Table

  • Popular Grape Camp Returns to Sonoma County

    Sonoma County Winegrowers has just announced it is bringing back one of its most popular programs this fall when Grape Camp returns.  This three-day immersion in all thing’s agriculture, wine and food in Sonoma County is an experience of a lifetime.  From vineyard immersions led by growers to sommelier-led wine tastings to unforgettable farm to table gatherings, the camp allows participants to learn first-hand why Sonoma County is a wine and food mecca.

    “Grape Camp is much loved by past campers because it is true wine country immersion! The best part is getting to meet so many of our local family farmers and winemakers,”  said Karissa Kruse, president and chief executive officer of the Sonoma County Winegrowers.  She added, “We took a few years off, but we regularly received inquiries asking if Grape Camp was going to return, so we are thrilled to bring back this ‘bucket list’ experience for wine lovers.”

    Grape Camp is more than an event — it is a celebration of community, craftsmanship, and connection to the land. From picking grapes alongside multi-generational farmers to blending wines and dining under the stars, guests will savor the region’s bounty in its most authentic form. Grape Camp offers a unique blend of Sonoma County’s luxurious hospitality and its grassroots winegrowing heritage.

    Sonoma County is home to more than 495 wineries, over 100 wine grape varieties and 19 distinct wine growing appellations, as well as 50 miles of coastline—more than any other wine region in California.  The region’s dynamic landscape and commitment to sustainability make it the perfect place to learn, sip, and savor. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply wine-curious, Sonoma County Winegrowers invites you to be part of the story — from vine to glass.

    Grape Camp will be held September 28 through October 1, 2025. Space is limited, so reserve your space now by visiting https://sonomawinegrape.org/grape-camp-2025/.

    About Sonoma County Winegrowers: Sonoma County Winegrowers (SCW), was established in 2006, evolving from the Sonoma County Grape Growers Association, which was first launched in 1983 by local grapegrowers inspired to work together to elevate the region. SCW is a marketing and educational organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Sonoma County as one of the world’s premier grape growing regions. With more than 1,800 growers, SCW’s goal is to increase awareness and recognition of the quality, sustainability and diversity of Sonoma County’s grapes and wines through dynamic marketing and educational programs targeted to wine consumers and influencers around the world. In 2014, Sonoma County’s winegrowing community embarked on a major initiative to have all Sonoma County vineyards certified sustainable. Today, 99% of the vineyard acreage in Sonoma County has completed certification by a third-party auditor making Sonoma County the most sustainable winegrowing region in the world. In addition, in 2020, SCW became the exclusive pilot partner for the California Land Stewardship’s Climate Adaptation Certification. In 2022, SCW began envisioning a Farm of the Future which it officially introduced in 2023. SCW’s sustainability efforts have been recognized with California’s highest environmental honor, the 2016 Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA).

  • CA GROWN Launches New Website to Connect Visitors with State’s Rich Agritourism Experiences

    CA GROWN has unveiled a new digital destination—Experience California Agriculture—to spotlight the state’s diverse and dynamic agritourism offerings. From u-pick orchards and vineyard tours to farm stays and farm-to-table restaurants, the website serves as a gateway to authentic California farm-fresh food and farm experiences.

    The Vegetable Shop at Chino Farm in San Diego County, May 2025

    The newly launched platform offers interactive maps, regional guides, and curated directories for farm stands, farm stores, u-pick farms, family-friendly destinations, educational programs, and more. Designed for travelers, educators, and food lovers alike, the site emphasizes sustainability, accessibility, and the deep connection between California’s agricultural communities and those who want to experience them firsthand.

    “California is more than the country’s leading agricultural state—it’s a living classroom and a place where food, family, and farming intersect in powerful ways,” said California Secretary of Agriculture Karen Ross. “This new website makes it easier than ever for people to connect with the people and places who grow our food and steward our land.”

    Visitors can browse by region or category, explore detailed listings with real-time updates for everything from coastal farm tours to inland olive oil tastings. The site also features seasonal content, trip ideas, and tips for responsibly enjoying California’s working landscapes. CA GROWN partnered with MJR Creative Group of Fresno, CA to develop the site.

    “Agritourism is how we bring the story of CA GROWN to life,” said Cherie Watte, Executive Director of the Buy California Marketing Agreement/CA GROWN. “This site is not just a tool for travel—it’s a way to build understanding and appreciation for the incredible diversity of crops, communities, and experiences found across the Golden State.”

    The Harbor House Inn, Restaurant & Farm, Elk CA – Mendocino County with Chef Matthew Kammerer and Farm Manager Amy Smith

    The launch of Experience California Agriculture comes at a time when interest in local food, outdoor travel, and hands-on learning continues to grow. By bridging the gap between consumers and producers, the site helps ensure that the benefits of agritourism flow directly to California’s family farms and rural economies.

    About CA GROWN
    CA GROWN is an initiative of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, promoting the people and products behind California’s diverse agricultural bounty. Learn more at californiagrown.org.

    Funding for Experience California Agriculture was made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the USDA.