Sip Sustainably: Exploring International Wineries for Climate Action and Carbon Neutrality

The wine industry is home to various organizations with diverse missions, but few are as dedicated to environmental sustainability as the International Wineries for Climate Action (IWCA). Earlier this year, they hosted the largest tasting of low-emission wines in Napa, drawing attention to their significant efforts towards carbon neutrality in wine production.

Founded in 2019 by Familia Torres and Jackson Family Wines, the IWCA aims to unite wineries in their quest to lower greenhouse gas emissions throughout the wine lifecycle. Their collaborative approach holds that collective action can yield results faster than isolated efforts.

To implement their goals effectively, wineries must begin by measuring their carbon emissions, a practice known as carbon accounting. This involves calculating the carbon footprint through various stages, including planting, farming, winemaking, packaging, and energy usage. Recognizing the complexity involved, the IWCA provides free carbon emission calculators designed specifically for wineries on their website.

Membership in the IWCA requires wineries to assess their internal greenhouse gas emissions and energy use while establishing an external emissions plan validated by a third-party audit. Once admitted, members have a year to reach Silver status, committing to achieving a Net-Zero carbon footprint by 2050 and setting intermediate goals for 2030. Among the current members, 18 have reached Gold status, indicating 20% renewable energy self-generation and significant emissions reductions.

Katie Jackson, representing Jackson Family Wines, shared the growth of the IWCA, boasting 49 companies and 175 wineries across 14 countries, which account for roughly 3.5% of global wine emissions. The group focuses on direct emissions reductions rather than relying on carbon offsetting, which can be problematic.

The initiatives within the IWCA manifest in both evident and subtle ways—whether through reducing vineyard tractor passes, employing lighter glass bottles, or innovating waste management procedures for bottling materials. Some members have engaged with the North Bay Zero Waste Collective, enabling them to repurpose waste and optimize recycling efforts.

The outcomes of collaborative efforts are commendable. For example, A to Z Wineworks reduced their water usage by 33%, saving significant CO2 emissions. Other notable achievements include the construction of France’s first LEED-Certified wine cellar and extensive steps toward sustainable energy by various wineries.

While the stringent membership requirements may deter smaller wineries, the IWCA has made a wealth of resources available for any winery looking to mitigate its carbon footprint. The movement underscores the importance of measuring and managing carbon impact, encouraging all wineries to take initial steps.

In a showcase of IWCA member wineries, the tasting revealed not just excellent wines but the commitment to sustainability. These wines are an expression of their makers’ promise to contribute positively to the planet. When purchasing them, consumers support meaningful actions in the fight against climate change.

Tasting Notes

Here are some featured IWCA member wines ranked by score:

• 2021 Henschke “Mount Edelstone” Shiraz, Australia – A harmonious blend of black cherry and olive with a score of 9.5. Cost: $290. Purchase here.

• 2022 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon, California – Beautifully balanced with notes of cherry and espresso, scored at 9.5. Cost: $280. Purchase here.

• 2021 Opus One Bordeaux Blend, California – Rich with black cherry and herbs, receiving a score between 9 and 9.5. Cost: $452. Purchase here.

• 2023 Ridge Vineyards “Lytton Springs” Red Blend, California – Features blackberry and blueberry flavors, scored between 9 and 9.5. Cost: $54. Purchase here.

• 2021 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, California – A complex palate of black cherry and herbs, with a score around 9. Cost: $78. Purchase here.

This tasting illustrates a rising trend in the wine industry, where flavor, quality, and sustainability can all converge for a more promising future.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!