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Sustainability is all the rage these days and rightfully so. Climate change and everything that comes with it made people realize that we are dealing with a planet that has its limits. Yet this doesn’t mean that we have to live like Spartans. As long as humanity uses its ingenuity we can find solutions that both serve our needs and those of the planet.
This goes for wine as well. More and more producers are turning towards the organic, natural and biodynamic spectrum, producing marvelous wines in the process. While tasting their wine is a great way to experience what nature has to offer, visiting the actual vineyards is an even better treat.
Combining eco- and enotourism, here are six beautiful, natural wineries around the world you should visit.
Located in the Cahors region in France, it will come to no surprise that this château produces mostly Malbec. They have six different organic labels and certificates as well as a spot in Decanter’s 2016 top 50 World’s Best Wines list. Combine that with a gorgeous landscape and visiting becomes a must.
The Black Estate vineyards are located on the other side of world, in the Waipara Valley, New Zealand. Sitting on limestone and clay, the winery produces Pinot Noir, Chardonnay & Riesling. The family business’ main focus is producing great wines through working with nature rather than exploiting it. Their tasting room and eatery are perfect for indulging.
You can find Black Estate wines, together with many others organic, biodynamic and natural wines at About Eatery in Bangkok.
Franciacorta producer Barone Pizzini has been around since 1870. And although the house has connections to WWI flying aces and Ferrari, in 1998 it decided to take things slower and use organic methods to produce their delicious Franciacorta. A tour at the beautiful Italian estate includes an explanation of organic farming principles, a visit to the wine-making and ageing rooms and of course a tasting session.
This vineyard is worth visiting for the stunning château alone. The estate dates back to the 18th century and was included in the famous 1855 classification, confirming its membership among the elite of the Médoc. Respecting the vines and the terroir, they make their wines as organic as possible. Private tours and tastings are possible by appointment.
Most people forget about Central- and Eastern-Europe when it comes to wine yet you can find some of the oldest vineyards in the world there. Bolfan Vinski Vrh, near Zagreb, Croatia, is one of those. They work purely biodynamic and their wines have subsequently won numerous awards. You can tour the estate and learn about the biodynamic winemaking process as well as stay in one of their boutique bedrooms if you want to enjoy the region.
Sao Del Coster was started by a group of Swiss friends who had nothing but love for the Priorat region in Catalonia. The project started in 2004 and is currently in the process of integrating biodynamic principles. Working with the cycles of the moon and respecting the country and terroir is their priority. They also produce some pretty good wines. A visit is all you need to learn more about the estate and its wines.
