Wine Spectator: Wine and Sustainability
Wine Spectator, April 2023
With its roots in agriculture, environmental sustainability has been a focus for many in the wine industry since the beginning. Yet as consumers have become more conscious of the impact of their purchasing decisions, sustainability-focused practices are broadening to encompass what is known as the three Es: environmentally sensitive, socially equal and economically viable.
Be combining environmentally responsible practices with social and economic sustainability, wineries are not only preserving the quality of their land and producing the best grapes, but are also setting an example for other industries to follow. The shift toward sustainability in the wine industry is a positive development, not only for the environment but also for the consumers, the communities and the industry itself. By embracing sustainable practices, wineries can continue to produce high-quality wines while preserving the health of the land, the local wildlife and the environment. Additionally, they can build stronger relationships with their employees, their communities and their customers, contributing to the social and economic well-being of the region.
The emergence of certification agencies helps to ensure that the claims made by wineries about their sustainability practices are reliable, providing consumers with a level of confidence in the product. The fact that so many wineries have achieved these accreditations is a testament to their commitment to sustainability and their efforts to preserve nature’s balance.
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly more important consideration for wineries and for consumers as they look for products that are not only delicious but also responsible and sustainable. By embracing sustainable practices and prioritizing the environment, wineries are setting an example for other industries to follow, and helping to create a better future for all. As consumers continue to seek out sustainable products, the demand for sustainable wines is likely to grow, driving the industry forward in a positive direction.
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines
J. Lohr’s dedication to sustainability and the environment traces its roots to founder Jerry Lohr’s seven decades of farming experience. J. Lohr was one of the first vineyards and wineries to be Certified California Sustainable by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance in 2010.
As a company, J. Lohr embraces the CSWA’s three Es of Sustainability: Environmentally Sound, Economically Feasible, and Socially Equitable. From its 3‑acre photovoltaic solar tracking array in Paso Robles to its leadership in water-saving technologies to its thirty wines that have achieved individual sustainability certification – every aspect of J. Lohr’s company culture aligns with sustainable practices. In recognition of its decades-long commitment to sustainability, J. Lohr received the prestigious Green Medal Leader Award in 2020.
While J. Lohr’s green credentials in viticulture and winemaking are impressive, the winery wears its heart on its sleeve regarding the equally important Socially Equitable tenet of sustainability. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just buzzwords here; they have been part of J. Lohr’s DNA since its founding almost fifty years ago. The Lohr family shares the belief that “at J. Lohr, talent and inspiration know no gender. We’re fortunate to have one of the industry’s most talented, experienced, and diverse teams. Our consistent, vintage-to-vintage quality is achieved by all J. Lohr team members having a voice – together, conscientiously growing and crafting wines our customers can proudly serve.”
As J. Lohr approaches its 50th anniversary, the company is more deeply rooted than ever in its sustainability values. Founder Jerry Lohr and second-generation co-owners Steve, Cynthia, and Lawrence Lohr are passionate about the winery’s leadership and legacy in this area. An internal J. Lohr Sustainability Committee, comprised of team members from all departments, meets regularly to oversee the annual certification processes as well as consider new methods and technologies to further the winery’s sustainability agenda and share with the industry as a whole. Sustainability is the past, present, and future of J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines.