Better Bubbles for the Environment
We all want to do our bit for the environment, whether it’s recycling more, buying and using reusable containers, eating locally grown foods, walking to the shops instead of driving, and sponsoring wildlife. Did you know you can also do your bit for the environment by drinking organic wine? With Valentine’s Day coming up, it might just be worth making the switch to an organic red, white, rose, or bubbly for the big night. We spoke to Richard Angove – Managing Director of Angove Family Winemakers to find out just why organic wines are so good. Read on to find out what he had to say.
We hear so much about organic farming these days. Why is it better for the environment?
No artificial or synthetic chemicals, fertilisers or pesticides are used in organic farming, so there is no run off into ground water. There is far more biodiversity of flora and fauna in the vineyard making it feel alive and vibrant. The microbial content in the soil is also higher making it easier for the plants to access the vital nutrients they need to grow.
What made you decide on organic wines?
As fifth generation winemakers we believe we are custodians of the environment in which we grow our grapes and make our wine. Everything we do needs to ensure we pass our precious resources on to the next generation in better condition than when we began our journey.
Our soil is a precious resource – grapes derive their flavour from the soil so if we treat it the best we can we will grow grapes with the best flavour which will make wines with the best flavour. Farming organically ensures our soils are in the best possible condition.
What do you need to do to get your product(s) certified? How long does the process take?
It takes three years of farming using organic viticultural principles and protocols to gain full certification and we are audited each year. We use Australian Certified Organic as our auditor to maintain our organic certification in both vineyard and winery. The certification is very important as it provides a frame work of constant improvement and serves as a trust mark for consumers as to the authenticity of our organic wines.
What are the benefits of organic wine?
Organic wines generally have lower sulphur content and you can be sure that they have been grown in the most sustainable way. Any inputs used in the vineyard when growing and winery when making must be certified organic as well.
What would you say to someone who hasn’t tried an organic wine before to get them to try one?
Ask your local bottle shop assistant to recommend one or two, look for a family owned producer, have a taste and see what you think. Quite often Organic wines are packaged in ‘Lean and Green’ glass bottles which are lighter and better for the environment as well.
What are your favourite 3 Angove Organic Wines?
I am probably a little biased…..Angove Warboys Vineyard Shiraz (pictured, with an Angove Organic Cuvee Brut), Angove Organic Rose and our Wild Olive McLaren Vale Shiraz….. Beauty Over 40 note – we concur on the Angove Organic Rose, and Angove Worboys Vineyard Shiraz – they are divine. Yet to try the Wild Olive McLaren Vale Shiraz, and will be trying the Angove Organic Cuvee Brut on Valentine’s Day.
Thank you for your valuable insight Richard. As someone who knows quite a bit about the environment, we have still learned something from your experience and knowledge, and hopefully our readers have too. This Valentine’s Day we’ll be celebrating with an organic bubbly (or 2).