Sip, Savor, and Save the Planet: Hahn & Oso Libre – Leading the Way in Sustainable Wine
As a wine influencer, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring countless wineries and tasting an array of exquisite wines. Among them, Hahn and Oso Libre have stood out not only for their outstanding wines but also for their commitment to sustainability. Both producers have taken remarkable steps to embrace eco-friendly practices in both their vineyards and wineries. Among other things, their vineyards’ certification through SIP Certified reflects their dedication to the environment.
Hahn Vineyards – Using Nature’s Help
Hahn’s 2019 Lucienne Chardonnay, sourced from the Lone Oak Vineyard, is a true testament to their harmonious approach to winemaking. Their sustainability practices are nothing short of impressive, showcasing their innovative methods of vineyard management.
One standout practice is the use of beneficial insects and falcons for pest control. Rather than relying on harmful pesticides, Hahn introduces beetles, ladybugs, and lacewings into the vineyards. These natural predators feast on harmful insects, ensuring a balance that minimizes the need for chemicals. This approach not only safeguards the environment but also leads to healthier, more vibrant grapevines.
But it doesn’t stop there.
Hahn takes bird control to the next level with the help of trained falcons. These majestic birds intimidate and deter smaller bird pests like starlings, protecting the vineyards without causing harm.
It’s heartening to learn that Hahn has been working with the same falconer for almost a decade, fostering a strong bond and understanding between the falcons and the vineyards. In fact, the falconer works full-time for the winery and even camps at one of the vineyards throughout harvest season to ensure grapes are safely harvested!
Oso Libre – Where Nature and Wine Unite
The 2018 Rojo del Patron, an estate blend from Oso Libre, is a captivating wine that showcases the harmony between nature and viticulture. Oso Libre takes a holistic approach to sustainability, utilizing nature as much as possible to enhance their vineyard practices.
In their vineyards, Oso Libre encourages the presence of birds of prey, such as eagles, owls, and hawks, to naturally keep rodent populations in check. This allows for a balance within the ecosystem and reduces the need for chemical interventions.
Moreover, Oso Libre employs alpacas and beef cattle to further minimize the use of herbicides. These adorable alpacas provide a natural source of nitrogen to the soil, promoting healthier vine growth, while the cattle help compact the soil, preventing erosion. This holistic approach not only leads to better wines but also preserves the integrity of the land for future generations.
Not to be outdone, Oso Libre’s tasting room stands as a paragon of sustainability. Powered by wind and solar energy, it maintains a net zero carbon footprint. This commitment to alternative energy sources demonstrates Oso Libre’s dedication to making a positive impact on the environment at every step of the winemaking process.
What does SIP Certified mean?
SIP Certified (Sustainability in Practice) is like a big eco-hug for vineyards and wineries! It’s a super cool sustainability certification program tailor-made for the wine world. It represents a commitment by producers to environmentally sound, socially equitable, and economically viable practices in their vineyard management and winemaking processes.
Imagine it as a badge of honor for winemakers who are totally committed to being green, socially responsible, and economically savvy. They go above and beyond to take care of the environment, their workers, and their communities.
SIP Certified vineyards and wineries go through a comprehensive assessment to meet stringent sustainability standards, ensuring that their practices not only produce exceptional wines but also contribute to the long-term health and well-being of the environment and the communities they operate in.
Basically, when you shop SIP Certified wines, you know you’re sipping on something special. It’s not just a delicious wine; it’s a wine with a heart for the planet and the people. You can find wines that are SIP Certified using their online search here.
Related: Read my previous blog post breaking down what SIP Certified means & why you should care!
Conclusion
Sustainability is not just a buzzword for Hahn and Oso Libre; it’s an ethos that permeates their entire winemaking journey. Their SIP Certified vineyards signify a commitment to nurturing the environment, while their impressive sustainable practices within their wineries showcase an unwavering dedication to eco-friendly viticulture.
Through their actions, it is evident that Hahn and Oso Libre have embraced sustainability wholeheartedly. As we, the consumers, continue to demand more eco-conscious choices, these wineries stand as beacons of hope, inspiring others in the industry to follow suit.
The wines from Hahn and Oso Libre are not just delicious; they carry with them a sense of responsibility towards the planet. By supporting such producers, we are not only indulging our taste buds but also contributing to a greener and more sustainable future for the world of wine.
Cheers to that!
