Huffman salutes wind-powered winery

Assemblymember Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael) presented his Sustainable North Bay Award for July to Sonoma’s Anaba Wines on Tuesday.

“I am pleased to recognize Anaba Wines for their environmentally responsible winemaking and energy efficient business operations,” commented Huffman after touring the facility with proprietor John Sweazey and Director of Winemaking Jennifer Marion.

Anaba, located in Schellville, recently became the first winery in Northern California to utilize wind power with its installation of a 45-foot wind turbine to power its irrigation system, tasting room and offices. Sweazey keeps a laptop in the tasting room for visitors to track the energy generated by the ‘anabatic winds’ that drive the turbine and led to the winery’s name.

With the enactment of Huffman’s bill, AB 920, beginning in January of 2011, any excess energy generated by the turbine can be sold to PG&E.

“I am pleased to recognize Anaba Wines for their environmentally responsible winemaking and energy efficient business operations,” commented Huffman after touring the facility with Sweazey and Director of Winemaking Jennifer Marion.

Anaba produces about 5000 cases a year and specializes in Rhone and Burgundian varietals, including the Coriol white and red blends. Wine operations are based at an industrial warehouse on Eighth Street near downtown Sonoma, though plans are being drawn for a new facility in the northwest quadrant of Anaba’s estate property.