By Kate Statton

Google announced in 2011 a $280 million dollar deal with SolarCity. That’s a solar paneling company. One that will also build and lease solar power systems. For they already have between 7,000 and 9,000 homeowners. All according to Reuters.

Investment

This is Google’s largest investment yet. For it sends a major message. That’s about its trust in clean, renewable energy.

While this is major economic news, it isn’t news to many wineries. For they have been at this for years. All ahead of the pack using solar panels. That’s as a way to reduce their carbon footprint. With wineries from California to New Zealand. Those making use of solar paneling. I mean similar to those made by SolarCity. For it was about time Google jumped on the bandwagon!

Check out our short list of wineries using solar energy and their wines. Be sure to let us know what you think of wineries using solar power below!

Long Meadow Ranch Winery

Long Meadow Ranch Winery in St. Helena, CA, does more than just wine. With products ranging from fruits and vegetables to eggs and olive oil, wine is just one of their many outputs. The 650-acre farm is certified by California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF). Solar paneling provides for 100% of their energy use.

Frog’s Leap Winery

As of 2005, Frog’s Leap Winery, in Rutherford, CA is also 100% solar paneled. Using 1020 panels on ½ an acre of land, the winery builds up enough solar energy to provide for the vineyards with excess. Interestingly, that excess is sold back to the power companies. Thereby making Frog’s Leap Winery more than just a winery but also an energy provider.