When it comes to wine, many wine lovers care about more than just taste. The desire is to know that the wine being enjoyed has been produced in a way that’s good for the environment, the workers who make it, and the communities it comes from.
Buying ethical and sustainable wine can help support these values. If looking to make smarter, more conscious wine choices, this article provides eight important tips that will guide you in purchasing wines that are both ethical and sustainable.
1. Look for Organic Certification
One of the easiest ways to identify ethical wines is by looking for an organic certification. Natural wines are made from grapes grown without synthetic pesticides or herbicides. This means that the environment is protected, and the workers who harvest the grapes are not exposed to harmful chemicals. Also, organic certification is a strong signal that the winery cares about the planet and health.
2. Check for Biodynamic Practices
Biodynamic wines go a step further than organic wines. This farming method takes a holistic approach to sustainability. Biodynamic vineyards use organic practices but also follow spiritual and astrological guidelines to improve soil health and plant growth.
On top of that, the focus is on creating a balanced ecosystem that works in harmony with nature. That’s why you should look for wines with biodynamic certification, such as Demeter, to support farms practicing deeper sustainability methods.
3. Research the Winery’s Environmental Impact
Ethical wineries often work to reduce environmental footprints. Check the winery’s website or product label for information on sustainability practices. Some may use renewable energy or focus on reducing waste. Aside from that, efforts in environmental sustainability are often shared openly, allowing buyers to make informed choices based on the impact on the planet.
4. Support Local, Small Producers
Purchasing from small, local producers can significantly impact sustainability. Small wineries often focus more on quality than quantity and use environmentally friendly methods. Supporting local producers strengthens local economies and reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Seek wines from smaller, family-run vineyards practicing ethical farming and production methods.
5. Pay Attention to Packaging
Wines that focus on sustainability don’t stop at what’s inside the bottle. Packaging plays an important role in reducing environmental impact. Many sustainable options use lighter bottles or alternative closures like screw caps, which are more eco-friendly than cork. Some producers also aim to cut down on plastic by using biodegradable or minimal packaging to create a smaller environmental footprint.
6. Evaluate for Fair Trade Certification
Fair Trade certification ensures fair pay and safe working conditions for workers involved in growing and harvesting grapes. Buying Fair Trade wines supports wineries that provide fair wages, access to health care, and educational opportunities, much like the sustainable wine Australia emphasizes in its approach to ethical production.
Additionally, this certification improves living standards for those working in the wine industry, particularly in developing regions. Don’t forget that you should look for Fair Trade wines to ensure your purchase supports ethical practices.
7. Choose Wines with Minimal Intervention
Minimal intervention wines are made with as little interference as possible during the production process. These wines are often natural wines, which are made with organic or biodynamic grapes and minimal use of sulfites and other preservatives. Minimal intervention winemaking allows the true flavors of the grapes to shine through, and suit those looking for wines that are sustainable and authentic.
8. Read Reviews and Ask Questions
If unsure about the sustainability and ethical practices behind a wine, take time to read reviews or ask questions. Wine critics or retailers often provide insights into a winery’s practices. Some retailers specialize in ethical and sustainable wines and can guide you to options aligned with your values. So, reach out and ask the producer or store about steps taken to ensure wines are ethical and sustainable.
Savor the Earth, Sip with Purpose!
Spending money on ethical and sustainable wine isn’t just about supporting the environment — it’s about promoting fairness and quality in winemaking practices. Choosing organic wines, exploring options from small producers, or selecting eco-friendly packaging contributes to a sustainable future. By keeping these eight tips in mind, wine choices can align with values that benefit the planet and communities.
