Algae-fueled future

It's no secret that we have big plans here at Holme Grown Brand California Ecotourism. We've just recently purchased a Mercedes Sprinter Van to host our group tours (starting July 1) and we're lobbying Bay Area clean-tech companies like Solazyme to try to obtain fuel produced from algae with which to run one of our fleet vehicles.

Founded in 2003 and headquarted in South San Francisco, Solazyme's unique technology allows algae to produce oil and biomaterials in standard fermentation facilities quickly, efficiently and at large scale.

Solazyme's fuels provide compelling solutions to increasingly complex issues of fuel scarcity, energy security and environmental impact while fitting cleanly into the pre-exisiting multi-trillion dollar fuel infrastructure.

Solazyme's investors among others include Braemer Energy Ventures, Harris & Harris Group, Lightspeed Venture Partners, the Roda Group, VantagePoint Venture Partners, and investors from strategic industry partners in key market targets.

Boeschen Vineyards powered 100 percent by solar

Here at Holme Grown we're always looking for compelling new eco-friendly wineries to bring into the fold. And recently we stumbled upon a gem named Boeschen Vineyards located just north of St. Helena on the Silverado Trail.

Founded in 1999, the winery is run by three family members who do 100 percent of the cellar work and farming. It is located underground and features the latest in winemaking technology. Boeschen produces just a few hundred cases annually of its Estate Cabernet and its Carrera Estate Blend.

In 2008 Boeschen became just the ninth winery in the Napa Valley to complete the county's Green Certified Winery program. In addition to water and waste conservation practices, it enjoys the energy-saving benefits of an underground facility and is 100 percent powered by solar energy.

While the winery is a relative newcomer, the history of the estate dates back to 1890, when legend has it that 19th century railroad magnate Leland Stanford purchased the property for his mistress.

Curious about the name of their Bordeaux blend? Well it stems from Dann Boeschen's love of vintage Porches. A small collection of which he maintains in an adjoining barn.

Cruising Napa in eco-friendly style

In the months leading up to the launch of Holme Grown, we spent a considerable amount of time finding the perfect vehicle for our fleet (which we hope to grow considerably over the next few years.)

We picked the Mercedes GL320 because of its superior fuel economy, relatively spacious third row, its ability to run on a blend of biodiesel and regular No. 2 diesel and its attractive styling.

And we decided on white vehicles with tan interiors because it seems like every other transportation company in Napa chooses black on black, and at Holme Grown we're a little bit on the contrarian side in terms of how we like to operate.