Wines that resonate with the ethos of Earth Day embody the principles of environmental stewardship -- sustainable winemaking practices and a deep connection to the terroir from which they originate. Celebrate the harmony between nature and winemaking through these four distinctive bottles that speak to a shared commitment to preserving our planet's beauty and biodiversity.

#1 – La Crema 2022 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, California

This Pinot Noir is the most outstanding this wine journalist has tasted so far this year. Utilizing compost, cover crop, and livestock to tend to the vineyards are a few ways La Crema’s viticultural team strives to its commitment of sustainability. Raise a glass of this wine to toast to Earth Day and embrace this silky, elegant ruby wine and its flavor of dark berries and superbly-integrated oak barrel aging. If this wine is an expression of the region, it’s no wonder everyone wants to head to the Sonoma Coast! Bottle price: $28

#2 - 1000 Stories 2022 Chardonnay, California

In the vast landscape of wines, each bottle tells its own story. Among these tales, 1000 Stories Chardonnay invites the imbiber on a journey through time and taste, beginning with a golden pour, leading to a bouquet of pears mixed with a bit of vanilla. On the palate, the texture is velvety yet lively, coating the tongue with ripe peach and pear balanced by a subtle touch of butterscotch and baking spices. As the wine unfolds, layers of complexity emerge, revealing nuanced hints of caramelized American oak and a hint of minerality that lingers on the finish.

As you sip on this Chardonnay, keep in mind that aside from utilizing best practices in sustainability, 1000 Stories partners with Yellowstone Forever in support of Yellowstone National Park’s goal to re-home Yellowstone-origin bison to Native American Tribes.

This Chardonnay is a masterclass in balance, best paired with creamy pastas and rich seafood dishes, while its vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of roasted poultry and grilled vegetables. For a truly indulgent experience, pair it with a selection of aged cheeses or simply savor it on its own. Cheers to the art of storytelling in a bottle. $18.99/bottle

#3 – Château de Mille 2022 Luberon Blanc, France

Like liquid gold in a bottle, you can’t get a white wine more in line with this wine journalist’s palate than this blend of Clairette (one of the oldest winemaking grapes in France), Ugni (common grape in France) and Rolle grapes of Provence. This Luberon is as fresh as the organic fertilizer used in its viticultural technique of biodiversity and enrichment of the microbiome. This is certified organic by Ecocert.

The grapes hail from the picturesque hills of Provence, where Château de Mille Luberon crafts this captivating blend that exemplifies the region’s terroir and tradition. In the glass, the Château de Mille Luberon 2022 presents a radiant ruby hue, reminiscent of a Provencal sunset, with glimmers of violet dancing along the edges. The bouquet is an enchanting opus of ripe red berries, including luscious strawberries and juicy raspberries, mingling with delicate floral notes of violet and lavender. Subtle hints of Mediterranean herbs and a touch of earthiness add depth and intrigue. The same goes to the palate, with a subtle minerality that emerges – and finishes with a hint of spice and forest floor. Try this wine with a Niçoise salad. Price per bottle: $15

#4 – Benziger 2021 Pinot Noir, Sonoma County, California

Benziger holds a special place in this wine journalist’s heart, as it was my first memorable winery visit to Glenn Ellen in Sonoma County, California. Our small media group was invited inside the Benziger ranch kitchen for a casual tasting and information session on this biodynamic vineyard. Since that first visit almost 20 years ago, I’ve remained a fan of Benziger wines. The winery continues to craft their grapes with meticulous care and a deep respect for the land, and the Benziger Pinot Noir 2021 is a true reflection of the vineyard’s diverse terroir and the winery’s commitment to sustainable viticulture.

In the glass, the Benziger Pinot Noir 2021 boasts a translucent garnet hue, while the nose reveals an alluring bouquet of ripe cherries, wild strawberries, and cranberries, accented by hints of pomegranate and subtle floral notes. Delicate spice aromas, like cinnamon and clove, intertwine with earthy undertones, conjuring memories of autumnal forests and sun-dappled vineyards. On the palate, this Pinot Noir unfolds with grace and finesse, bright acidity enhancing its freshness and balance. Flavors of cherry and raspberry dance on the tongue, accompanied by nuances of dried herbs and a touch of cedar. Silky tannins lend structure without overpowering, leading to a smooth, lingering finish that leaves a trail of subtle spice and fruit.

This versatile wine pairs beautifully with a range of dishes, from roasted duck breast with cherry compote to grilled salmon with a balsamic glaze. Its acidity and vibrant fruit make it a delightful match for creamy cheeses like Camembert or aged Gouda. Price per bottle: $20

Charlene Peters is a wine writer and author of "Travel Makes Me Hungry."