Drink vino responsibly by uncorking a bottle of these eco wines.
Not all wines are created equally — or sustainably, for that matter.
When it comes to turning water into wine, the industry can be incredibly resource-intensive. According to the World Wildlife Fund, it takes upwards of 500 gallons of water to produce one bottle of wine in California, taking into account pre-harvest and irrigation needs. And, just like the production of any other product, there’s also the issue of carbon emissions. The average bottle of wine is responsible for emitting about 1.28 kilograms of carbon dioxide — which equates to driving roughly three miles in a car.
The wine industry’s packaging and transportation sectors are especially pollutive, accounting for nearly 80 percent of all emissions, according to International Wineries for Climate Action, a coalition of environmentally-conscious wine producers.
Amid the growing demand for sustainable products, eco winemakers are increasingly working to churn out more earth-friendly wines. They’re also embracing sustainable viticulture practices to help mitigate the impacts of global warming, which has caused some wine-producing regions to become too dry or too hot for crops.
“As an agriculture, we are really impacted by climate change,” explains Christina Crava, project manager for Proto Protocol, an international foundation fostering climate solutions for the wine industry. “We feel climate change first, then other crops do. That’s why people are really responding and looking for sustainability practices in this sector.”
Sustainable winemaking practices can include using lighter bottles to minimize carbon emissions, conserving water through drip irrigation, and opting for renewable sources of energy. Many wine producers are also opting to use organic and biodynamic farming practices. The latter treats vineyards as a closed-loop system, using natural soils and other materials and eschewing pesticides and fertilizers, for example.
Eco wine brands to shop
Worry not, you can still indulge in a glass of sustainable Cabernet Sauvignon by opting for wine brands that are committed to minimizing their impact on the planet. Indulge in dry merlots, sweet moscatos, and everything in between responsibly by opting for a bottle of sustainable wine. From organically farmed grapes to recycled glass bottles, we’ve got some of the most planet-friendly wine brands to shop.
Donnafugata
Donnafugata, a Sicilian winery, has been dedicated to environmental and social sustainability for over 30 years. The company abstains from using herbicides and chemical fertilizers, produces clean energy, and focuses on preserving biodiversity. In 2021, Donnafugata joined the SOStain Sicilia Foundation to further its commitment to sustainable practices.
In 2023, Donnafugata introduced the Cento per Cento Sicilia bottle, produced entirely in Sicily using up to 90 percent recycled glass, reducing CO₂ emissions associated with transportation and production. Additionally, the winemaker adopted the Nomacorc Ocean closure, made from recycled plastic collected in coastal areas, to protect marine ecosystems.
A notable wine exemplifying their sustainable approach is the Lighea, a dry white made from Zibibbo grapes grown on Pantelleria Island. The vines are cultivated using the traditional alberello pantesco method, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, which involves training the vines low to the ground to shield them from strong winds and conserve moisture. The Lighea white with a nose that offers a rich, fragrant bouquet with notes of orange blossom, citrus hints, and exotic fruit. The palate delivers fresh, fruity, and floral notes with a pleasant mineral finish.
Kind of Wild Wines
Kind of Wild Wines is a global collection of wines crafted in partnership with growers around the world who farm with organic and regenerative practices. The range is certified vegan and made from grapes grown without added sugar.
The project was co-founded by chef and author Katie Lee Biegel, alongside brothers Jordan Sager and Adam Sager. The siblings are applying their combined wine-industry experience to curate wines that span varietals from Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon in Argentina to Rosé from the Languedoc region in France and a Grüner Veltliner from Austria.
The brand positions itself around sustainability and soil health, stating that by supporting organic growers it hopes to reduce erosion, preserve clean water, and encourage wider adoption of organic vine-farming.
Chandon
Chandon is a standout among eco-minded wine producers thanks to its holistic sustainability commitments. On its California estate, more than 90 percent of irrigated vineyards rely on recycled water, synthetic herbicides have been eliminated, and soil health is boosted through cover crops and composting.
The winery has pledged a zero-waste goal, recycling nearly all materials, converting organic residue into biochar, and shifting toward biodegradable packaging. It is also certified under Napa Green and Fish Friendly Farming, and practices regenerative agriculture, including a three-to-one replanting ratio for biodiversity restoration. Try the sparkling aperitif Chandon Garden Spritz for an exceptional trat; the blend uses grapes grown on pesticide-free family estates, the cooling bag is crafted from washable paper, jute, and cotton, and the label supports a tree-planting initiative of 15 species.
Elusa
Elusa Winery, nestled within the Four Seasons Resort in Calistoga, California, offers a unique and intimate wine experience. The name “Elusa” is derived from a Wappo word meaning “to care for or hold something precious,” reflecting the winery’s dedication to preserving the essence of its terroir. The estate features a 4.7-acre vineyard planted entirely with Cabernet Sauvignon, integrated seamlessly among the resort’s villas and residences. This close integration allows guests to immerse themselves in the winemaking process, from vine to glass.
Under the guidance of Winemaker Jonathan Walden, Elusa crafts small-lot wines that showcase the distinctive characteristics of the Calistoga AVA. Walden’s approach emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the unique growing conditions of Calistoga to be expressed in each bottle. A notable offering is the estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its rich flavors and balanced structure. Visitors can enjoy exclusive tastings and guided tours, gaining insight into the meticulous winemaking process that defines Elusa’s commitment to quality and authenticity.
Bonterra Organic Vineyards
Bonterra Organic Estates, based in Mendocino County, California, is recognized as America’s number one organic winery and the world’s largest Regenerative Organic Certified winery. Since its establishment in 1987, Bonterra has practiced organic and biodynamic farming, utilizing regenerative methods such as cover cropping, compost application, and sheep grazing to enhance soil health and biodiversity.
In 2023, it launched the Bonterra Estate Collection, featuring wines like the 2021 Chardonnay and 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, both bearing the Regenerative Organic Certified label. These wines reflect Bonterra’s dedication to producing high-quality wines while prioritizing environmental stewardship. Moreover, Bonterra achieved Climate Neutral certification, demonstrating its commitment to measuring, reducing, and offsetting its carbon footprint.
Grgich Hills Estate
Napa Valley winery, Grgich Hills Estate, has been a pioneer in organic and biodynamic winemaking. The estate emphasizes sustainable farming methods, contributing to the production of high-quality wines while preserving the environment. The label farms five certified organic vineyards without artificial pesticides or herbicides. It relies on wild yeast fermentation and handcrafting for its balanced and elegant wines. A standout wine from their portfolio is the Grgich Hills Estate Chardonnay, known for its balance and complexity.
Avaline
Your new charcuterie board go-to has arrived. From co-founders actor Cameron Diaz and fashion entrepreneur Katherine Powers, Avaline’s vegan wine is made with organic grapes and no unwanted additives. Even though wine labels aren’t legally required to be transparent on their labels, Avaline fully discloses every ingredient so you won’t have to ever question what’s in your bottle.
The brand, which incorporates recyclable packaging and sustainable transportation methods, recently launched its new Cabernet Sauvignon, a medium to full-bodied red wine that features hints of red berries and cocoa. Made with 100 percent organic grapes and zero sugars, enjoy “cherry fruits, chocolatey rich tannins and great acidity” in bottle form. The company also carries other varieties, including white and sparkling wine.
Our Daily Red
Founded in 1989, this California-based brand prioritizes organic and sustainable winemaking. “Our Daily Wine’s journey began before organic products were as mainstream as they are now, with the goal of making USDA organic wine more accessible for those wanting to live an organic, preservative-free lifestyle,” Kurt Lorenzi, Our Daily Wine’s VP of Global Sourcing and Winemaking, told Ethos.
Vegan and free of preservatives, shop the company’s Syrah, Grenache, Ruby Cabernet, and Carignan varietals, which feature ripe notes of fresh raspberries and tart cherries.
Lail Vineyards
Founder Robin Lail knows a thing or two about sustainability. A U.S. Representative for Proto Protocol, Lail is dedicated to fighting the climate crisis on the frontlines of the wine industry. “Working in the wine business in Napa Valley has meant being surrounded by a community of growers and vintners who farm for the future,” she explained. “Farming techniques include a range from sustainable to bio-dynamic, from organic to carbon and regenerative farming. At Lail Vineyards we are carbon farming.”
Open a bottle of Lail Vineyard’s Blueprint wines and ten percent of proceeds go to organizations fighting climate change.
Related on Ethos:
- Avaline’s Organic Autumn Red Wine Spritz
- The Spirits Industry Has Embraced Food Waste and These Are the 7 Brands to Try
- The Wine Capital of the World Takes the Lead on Sustainability
- ‘Every Drop’ of Martini’s Sparkling Wines Are Now Certified Sustainable
All products featured on Ethos have been independently selected by our editorial team.
When you buy something through our links, Ethos may earn an affiliate commission.
