Sustainable Wine+Dinner Series 

The Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association’s (GLAZA) annual Sustainable Wine+Dinner Series returns with a spotlight on the institution’s ongoing commitment to conservation with four upcoming evenings on Thursday, March 22, April 28, May 31, and June 28, 6 to 9 p.m. The Zoo is partnering with local, environmentally friendly vineyards whose wines serve as the inspiration for custom four-course, farm-to-table dinner menus created by Zoo Executive Chef Brad Robertson. The series focuses on sustainability – from agriculture to food and wine production to wildlife conservation. Each evening explores a different topic and features conversations with a curator or keeper, up-close animal encounters, and wine introductions by winery representatives.

April 26, is themed “Raptors and Reptiles,” set to take place on the Cambodia Terrace at Elephants of Asia, and features Ramona Ranch Vineyard and Winery. Ramona Ranch Vineyard has been certified a sustainable vineyard and winery by the California Wine Institute. The winery has focused on sustainability since it was established in 2004, and was recently recognized by the National Wildlife Federation as a Certified Wildlife Habitat. The vineyard features wind turbine and solar generators, owl boxes, and an insectary that attracts beneficial bugs and birds to improve the biodiversity of the farm. A wide range of wildlife resides at the winery, including several native raptors and beneficial snakes. Learn about some of the Zoo’s local raptors and reptiles with Curator of Reptiles and Amphibians Ian Recchio.