The certification standard for sustainable vineyards and wines has floated an RFP for PR help as robust growth in the program over its first six years has leveled off.
The Sustainability in Practice designation, which goes beyond USDA Organic and Biodynamics certifications, is run by a non-profit farming group based in California. SIP competes with the California Certified Sustainable Winegrowing program.
The group, based in Atascadero, Calif., wants a firm to develop a campaign to reach vineyards and wineries, consumers and so-called gatekeepers like distributors and stores. It also wants to distinguish the SIP certification from among other eco-friendly wines.
Where USDA Organic certification in the wine sector covers only farming, the SIP process encompasses farming, labor, water quality and other aspects of wine production as well. Its certified acres grew from 3,700 at its inception in 2008 to more than 30,000. More than one million cases of wine bearing the SIP seal have shipped.
SIP wants to hear from firms intending to pitch by Oct. 1 with proposals due Nov. 1.
View the RFP (PDF).
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