Let's breakdown these three widely talked about and fascinating categories of environmentally-conscious, socially-responsible, and health-focused viticulture techniques.

What is it?

There is not just one definition for sustainable winemaking, because there are many ways a wine can be produced in an eco-friendly manner. Overarching all the various techniques, is the common goal of supporting the environment and community. Quality is also paramount, so you’re really getting the best of all worlds - a wine that’s delicious and sustainable!

How does it work?

To receive a Sustainable certification, wineries and vineyards must have their farming and winemaking practices evaluated to see if they meet certain eco-friendly standards. As grapes are grown, harvested, and made into wine, a multitude of environmental factors are prioritized.

What should I expect?

When you buy a sustainably-made wine, you’re helping to maintain healthy vineyards, protect the environment, and ensure the well-being of the wineries and winery workers. Here are a few of our favorite sustainably produced selections from top notch producers like Rocche, Puriri Hills, and L'Olivette. To see the full list, be sure to click on the button below. 

Organic wine used to be a niche category of wine reserved for the health-conscious and the small percentage of consumers who felt that natural wines were better for their bodies and for the environment. Today organic wines have grown to some of the most popular on the market, with producers from large to boutique striving to make their wines in as close to an organic manner as possible.

What is it and how does it work?

It is any wine that's produced naturally and crafted from organically grown grapes. As with all organically grown produce, there are shades of gray. For example, you can make wine from organically grown grapes, but not use organic winemaking ingredients. Certification is often costly and time-consuming, which makes it tough for producers to earn the seal of an official governing body on their label. But if the winery is using organics in some stage of their winemaking process, you can bet they will highlight it on their label and website!

What is it?

Biodynamics is a holistic view of agriculture that includes viticulture. It is the oldest, anti-chemical agricultural technique, predating the organic farming movement by about twenty years. Every biodynamic wine is certified by a governing body and must adhere to strict rules and regulations. This is an extremely tough certification to achieve. 

How does it work?

Biodynamics occur primarily in the vineyard before winemaking even happens. All the various tasks, from planting, pruning, to harvesting, are regulated by a special biodynamic calendar. Additionally, no chemicals or ‘manufactured’ additions are allowed in biodynamic wine. Winemakers must make special compost preparations with natural ingredients to bolster their vineyards.

Where are they produced and what should I expect?

You can find biodynamic wine producers across the world, however it is tough to bring in these wines at the prices you know and love. Those who believe in the philosophy think that the wines are more characteristic to the ‘terroir’ where they originate. The wines are often described as balanced and age equally as long as ‘standard’ wines. In truth, they do not taste different because of the biodynamics, they are just made in a more health-conscious, natural way. As soon as we find producers that match the price points you know and love from us, you can bet we will bring them in for you to enjoy. In the meantime, try the options we have that are sustainably-produced or organic!