Sustainability Flashcards
(24 cards)
What is meant by ‘sustainability’ in viticulture?
A holistic approach to minimize environmental impact, promote biodiversity, and ensure economic and social viability.
Name 3 common sustainability certifications in viticulture.
Organic (EU/USDA), Biodynamic (Demeter), Sustainable (e.g., SWNZ, SIP in California).
How does organic viticulture affect grape quality?
Reduces chemical inputs; may result in lower yields but potentially higher phenolic concentration and expression of terroir.
How can biodynamic practices impact wine style?
May enhance aromatic complexity, structure, and balance due to focus on soil health and vineyard biodiversity.
What vineyard interventions are typically restricted in organic farming?
Synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Only natural treatments allowed (e.g., copper, sulfur).
What are the impacts of cover crops on grape quality?
Improve soil structure, increase microbial activity, reduce erosion, and regulate vine vigor—affecting concentration and balance.
How do sustainable water management practices affect wine style?
Deficit irrigation can lead to smaller berries, higher skin-to-pulp ratio—thus enhancing tannin and anthocyanin concentration.
How might sustainability practices lead to stylistic inconsistency?
Reduced intervention may heighten vintage variation; risk of disease or under- or over-ripeness in challenging years.
How does climate change affect viticulture?
Alters temperature, rainfall patterns, increases frost, drought, disease pressure, and phenological shifts.
What is the role of rootstock and variety selection in climate adaptation?
Heat-tolerant and drought-resistant varieties/rootstocks can sustain yields and preserve acidity under warming conditions.
How can cover crops help mitigate climate effects?
Increase water retention, reduce temperature extremes in the soil, and prevent erosion during heavy rains.
What is the role of carbon sequestration in sustainable vineyards?
Practices like cover cropping and composting can sequester CO₂, reducing the vineyard’s net emissions.
Can biodynamic viticulture mitigate climate change?
Partially—by reducing external inputs and increasing soil organic matter, it enhances resilience and carbon storage.
How does vineyard altitude and orientation contribute to climate adaptation?
Higher altitudes and north-facing slopes (in NH) may moderate temperature extremes and preserve acidity.
Give an example of a winery using sustainability to adapt to climate change.
Torres (Spain) uses drought-resistant varieties and invests in carbon offset projects; Jackson Family Wines uses precision irrigation.
What are some risks of relying solely on sustainable practices for climate mitigation?
May not be sufficient to offset rapid changes; needs to be paired with broader systemic shifts and R&D investments.
How do consumers typically define a ‘sustainable wine’?
One made with environmental care, transparency, reduced carbon footprint, and ethical labor practices.
What role do eco-labels play in wine marketing?
Provide credibility and visibility; influence consumer trust and willingness to pay a premium.
Name 3 common sustainability labels consumers might see on wine bottles.
USDA Organic, Demeter (Biodynamic), Certified Sustainable (e.g., SWNZ, SIP Certified).
Do sustainable claims always increase sales?
Not necessarily—depends on market, consumer awareness, and trust in certification.
How does sustainability affect brand storytelling?
Enables narrative around stewardship, community, and responsibility—adds emotional and ethical value to the product.
What consumer segments are most responsive to sustainability?
Millennials and Gen Z consumers, especially in urban, high-income, and educated demographics.
What are potential challenges in marketing sustainable wines?
Greenwashing skepticism, certification confusion, and higher price points.
Give an example of a successful sustainable wine marketing campaign.
Bonterra (California) leverages organic certification and eco-friendly packaging to position as a market leader.
