Eco-friendly wine lovers will be thrilled to learn that Silver Oak’s new state-of-the-art facility is on track to be the first 100% zero net energy and zero net water commercial winery of its kind. Known for being one of the most environmentally conscious wineries in California, the new location is seeking LEED Platinum certification making it the world’s second production winery to receive that title—the first being the brand’s original site in Napa Valley. But it doesn’t stop there, the new winery is also aiming to meet rigorous certification with the Living Building Challenge. The framework for the certification will include performance standards for energy, water, beauty, health and happiness.

Leading the winery’s sustainable design is architect Daniel Piechota of Sagan Piechota Architecture in San Francisco. The firm shares the same commitment to sustainability while also maximizing functionality, aesthetic sensibility, and comfort.

The barn inspired tasting room is filled with eco-friendly details including reclaimed redwood siding, denim insulation, and energy efficient LED lighting. The selection of windows, doors and skylights are strategically placed to optimize daylighting throughout the building’s interior.

The design team specified sleek floor-to-ceiling glass walls that not only affords the spectacular view of the surrounding vineyards, but also helps to echo its beauty. Thermally broken steel framed window and door systems were chosen for their superior structural integrity, elegant slim profile, and energy performance ratings; all features an architect looks for when integrating large spans of glass into a building.

The highly sustainable property exceeds lighting and production needs with the installation of 2000 solar panels. The solar output will ultimately produce 105% and feed 5% back into the grid.

And as water conservation and efficiency is the new way of life in California, the winery employed the help of a new state-of-the-art membrane bioreactor water-management system. The advanced filtration and conservation system collects rainwater and winemaking wastewater for reuse up to 3 times throughout the property. The cutting-edge system is praised as being the most environmentally efficient and compact option available.

Silver Oak’s new Alexander Valley location is now open for public tours and tastings.