With the approach of Earth Day, many people and businesses turn their attention to issues concerning the environment, sustainability and the connections between generations. It is no different in the wine world. Actually, for many wineries every day is Earth Day. More and more wineries are committing to sustainable practices as their fundamental business model.
One of the leaders in this movement is the Benziger Family Winery. At this Sonoma Mountain winery established in 1980, sustainability is a family affair with around 24 members involved. Convinced that natural techniques yield more flavorful, aromatic grapes with more site-specific character, while improving the health of the estate, they converted the property into a biodynamic farm. Today, the family owns four certified biodynamic vineyard estates and every wine carries a green certification – sustainable, organic or biodynamic – from a third party. Try the 2012 Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon ($20), Merlot ($20), 2013 Chardonnay ($16), and 2013 North Coast Sauvignon Blanc ($15) and see what I mean.
In Mendocino County, Parducci Wine Cellars has a long commitment to business social responsibility, reclaiming 100% of the water used in the cellars, using 100% green power and earth-friendly packaging, and becoming the nation’s first carbon neutral winery. They also are a reliable producer of value priced wine. But I suggest you check out the “True Grit Reserve” portfolio – 2014 Chardonnay, and 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Blend and Petite Sirah (each $30) – representing special selections of the best quality grapes.
Even in the famous Napa Valley most producers recognize the value of sustainable practices. Under the direction of famed winemaker Miljenko “Mike” Grgich (and now his daughter Violet) Grgich Hills Estate was one of the earliest adopters. Today, most of its vineyards are certified organic and biodynamic and the winery converted its electricity to solar power. See what skilled artisans can do with great grapes with these current releases: 2013 “Fume Blanc” ($30) and Chardonnay ($43) and 2012 Zinfandel ($35), Merlot ($43) and Cabernet Sauvignon ($65).
Oregon’s wine industry also has been in the forefront of sustainable practices and Stoller Vineyards has been one of its leaders. The Stoller family has farmed the property since in 1943. Now, its vineyards have attained organic and Biodynamic certification and the winery is certified organic for operations and processing. Add Salmon Safe and LIVE certified. The winery also is solar-powered and the first in the world to receive LEED Gold certification. From the 2013 vintage enjoy the Dundee Hills Pinot Noir ($35) and Chardonnay ($30), and especially the Reserve Chardonnay ($35) and Pinot Noir ($45).
Packaging is another way producers enhance their environmental and economic bottom line. Newly released value brand Vin Vault offers its portfolio in a convenient box package that protects freshness (up to four weeks!) and offers energy savings in production, transportation and storage. Easy to open and reseal, portable, lightweight, and resistant to breakage, these are perfect for picnics and parties. Each 3-liter box holds the equivalent of four 750ml-sized bottles. Vin Vault is available in six varietals: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Red Blend.
So, this Earth Day (and beyond) raise a glass of sustainable wine knowing you can drink well while doing good.
NOTE: Featured Image Courtesy of Wikipedia