April 1, 2025 (Sebastopol, CA) — In celebration of Earth Day and Earth Month, Iron Horse Vineyards proudly announces Heal the Bay as the 2025 beneficiary of its annual contributions to ocean conservation. This new partnership underscores Iron Horse’s unwavering commitment to marine health, particularly after the devastating Los Angeles wildfires exacerbated coastal and ocean damage.
A portion of the proceeds from the vintage Ocean Reserve Blanc de Blancs Sparkling Wine ($75.00) will be directed toward Heal the Bay’s “Ashe to Action” initiative, helping to restore and protect Los Angeles’ coastal waters.
“In the wake of the devastating fires in Los Angeles, dedicating the proceeds from our vintage Ocean Reserve Blanc de Blancs to Heal the Bay allows us to extend our support to a community that’s hurting while advancing our long-term commitment to preserving the health of our ocean,” said Joy Sterling, Partner and CEO of Iron Horse Vineyards. “We believe that protecting our ocean goes hand in hand with supporting communities in need.”
Sterling serves on the California Coastal Conservancy, the lead state agency on climate change adaptation. The family’s dedication to ocean conservation reflects their deep knowledge that the ocean drives the special microclimate that allows Iron Horse to produce its world-class Sparkling Wines. As Joy Sterling puts it, “Protecting the ocean isn’t just a cause for us — it’s essential to preserving the health of our vineyards, the character of our wines, and the legacy we hope to pass on to future generations.”
Ashes to Action Initiative
Heal the Bay’s Ashes to Action initiative was launched in response to the catastrophic Los Angeles wildfires, which have significantly impacted local waterways and coastal ecosystems. Their team of scientists and policy experts mobilized immediately, conducting critical water quality testing to monitor contaminants such as heavy metals, bacteria, and chemical pollutants in affected coastal areas. Heal the Bay also collaborates with government agencies and academic institutions to mitigate runoff pollution, protect marine life, and develop long-term strategies for environmental recovery. This initiative ensures that post-fire restoration efforts prioritize the health of Los Angeles’ watersheds and coastal communities.
A Legacy of Ocean Conservation
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Iron Horse’s Ocean Reserve program, which has raised funds for leading ocean conservation organizations, including:
- National Geographic
- Mission Blue (founded by renowned marine biologist Sylvia Earle)
- The Marine Mammal Center
- The Surfrider Foundation (2024 beneficiary)
Each year, Iron Horse selects a new beneficiary, with contributions averaging $45 per case. This partnership with Heal the Bay continues a legacy of supporting organizations dedicated to the health of the world’s oceans and coastal communities.
About Iron Horse Vineyards
Iron Horse Vineyards is one of the finest family-owned wine properties in the U.S., renowned for producing the highest quality American luxury Sparkling Wines. These wines have been served at the White House since the historic Reagan-Gorbachev Summit Meetings in 1985. The estate spans 260 acres in Green Valley, a sub-region of the Russian River Valley, ideally located just 13 miles from the Pacific Ocean. 2025 marks the family’s 49th vintage, with three generations living on the estate.
About Heal the Bay
Heal the Bay is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting local coastal waters and watersheds in Southern California through science, education, advocacy, and community action. Their mission includes reducing water pollution, restoring fragile coastal habitats, and improving water quality throughout Greater Los Angeles.
