Summertime is the perfect time to sample new beverages as you gather with friends and families at outdoor parties or indoor fiestas. One enjoyable way you can Do Your Part is to try out locally or organically produced beers and wines, and it’s now easier than ever to get your lips on some pretty tasty varieties.

If local is the route you want to go, you’re in luck! The number of microbreweries and small vineyards in the United States has grown exponentially over the last 20 years, which means an ever-widening array of offerings from which to choose.

Purchasing from locally based brewers and vintners helps support the local farmers and the small businesses in your community. This creates jobs and stimulates your regional economy. Buying local also reduces the need for long-distance transportation; which in turn, decreases the carbon footprint of your favorite fermented refreshment. You may also find that locally produced brews taste a whole lot fresher because they generally spend less time being stored and shipped. Not sure about your local options? Visit DoYourPart.com/ Columns to search by state.

If a local producer isn’t an option, you can still your Do Your Part by selecting organic beers and wines. The beauty of these beverages is that they are produced with grapes or barley and hops that are grown without using toxic insecticides and herbicides or synthetic fertilizers that pollute our air, land and water. These same chemicals can be harmful to humans and animals alike. You’ll find that many local producers opt for organic growing methods and larger beer and wine producers are also offering organic selections. Even liquor producers are entering the market with organic vodka and gin available on store shelves.

The greenest choice of all is of course to make your own. I rarely encounter anyone making great wine in their bathtub nowadays but I know several garage brew-masters that can whip up some tasty selections. If you’d like to learn more about making your own beer, HomeBrewersAssociation.org is a good place to start.

It’s easy to do your part while enjoying your next beer or glass of wine. Seek out, sample and support the flavors of locally produced spirits. Who knows, you just might find a new favorite.