Determinants of Sustainability in Winemaking
Sustainability is a topic that is increasingly becoming important to wine producers and consumers alike. It is an umbrella term that encompasses a wide range of environmental and social issues, from energy and water use to biodiversity and worker safety.
The wine industry is definitely engaged in this issue, as shown by a growing body of literature and the rise of new academic journals and scientific communities. However, a lot of questions remain when discussing sustainability in a winemaking context. This paper explores the determinants of sustainability in the wine industry by looking at different research areas.
Background Research
There is a strong need for a better understanding of how the wine industry perceives and deals with sustainability. This is especially true when it comes to the emergence of organic and biodynamic wines.
This type of wine has been on the rise in recent years as a result of a combination of factors, such as the growing awareness of consumers and the need for environmental stewardship by wineries. In some countries, such as France, this trend has become mainstream.
One of the main reasons for this shift is that consumers are becoming more aware of the risks involved in pesticide and fertilizer usage. They are concerned about the impact on both the environment and their own health, such as cancer.
In order to ensure that their vineyards and vineyard workers are healthy, many wineries have made the switch to using fewer chemicals. This can be done through organic farming methods and/or by implementing biodynamic practices.
A key part of a sustainable approach is to make sure that the grapes used are grown in the best conditions possible. This means that they are well-tended, that the soil is kept healthy, and that the vines receive a fair amount of sunlight. This will result in healthier fruit and a more vibrant, intensely flavoured wine.
Another important aspect of a sustainable approach is the use of renewable resources, such as solar panels on the roof of the winery and the use of wind power to generate electricity. This can help reduce the winemaker’s carbon footprint, which is especially important in hot climates.
Moreover, the choice of materials used for packaging can also be environmentally friendly. A glass bottle for example can contribute to a wine’s overall carbon footprint, so it is advisable to choose a more environmentally friendly form of packaging such as a plastic or metal bottle. Carton packaging, for example, has a footprint that is five times lower than glass bottles, making it an excellent alternative to traditional glass.
When looking for a sustainable wine, it is important to ask probing questions about the production process. This is the best way to find out if the winemaker has done their research and whether they are doing something to minimise their impact on the environment.
For instance, if you’re looking for an organic wine that has been produced by a producer who is aware of the impacts on their vineyard and their workforce, then a quick internet search will probably turn up plenty of information about their processes and labour.
