5 planet-friendly wines to raise a glass to Earth Day

When it comes to values in a vineyard, winemaking and working with nature go hand in hand.

Moreover, Earth Day (April 22) highlights a growing appreciation of what’s in our glass – namely the environmental impact of what we drink.

Whether it’s supporting organic or biodynamic wine production – the latter includes many principles of organic farming, but also takes a holistic approach to winemaking by following the lunar cycle and overall ecosystem – there’s another dimension to these wines.

As Gérard Bertrand, winemaker, author and global leader in biodynamic viticulture puts it: “World Earth Day is a timely reminder that our planet is both our home and the source of all that nourishes us – including the wine we share in moments of joy and connection.”

“Supporting environmentally friendly wineries is not merely a lifestyle choice – it’s a meaningful act of stewardship.”

He continues: “On World Earth Day, let us raise a glass to those who nurture the land with vision and responsibility – because protecting the earth is the finest gift we can offer future generations.”

And who wouldn’t drink to that? Here’s what’s radiant and ripe for the picking…

1. Villa Maria Earth Garden Organic Sauvignon Blanc 2023, Marlborough, New Zealand, £12, Tesco

Exuberant and fresh as a summer meadow, notes of freshly cut grass, passion fruit and lime open in the glass, with lemony acidity providing a crisp, refreshing edge. Exotic and vivid, the purity of fruit really enlivens the finish.

2. Côte des Roses Organic Languedoc Rosé Limited Edition 2023, Languedoc, France, £11.99, Waitrose

A collaboration between the Bertrand family winery and acclaimed Australian artist, Morgan Jamieson, this Art Edition celebrates the ‘Mediterranean Art of Living’ – and combines painted blossom with a rose on the bottom of the bottle. Alluring with fragrant florals, summer berries and ripe, juicy peach fruit flavours; harmonious, balanced with a subtle saline note on the finish. Beautiful.

3. Altano Douro Rewilding Edition 2021, Douro Valley, Portugal, £11, Tesco

Winner of ‘Green Company of the Year Award 2024,’ and pioneers in sustainable wine production, Symington Family Estates ongoing partnership with Rewilding Portugal supports conservation projects – such as helping to restore ecosystems, protect wildlife and promote biodiversity. And it’s never been easier to drink to a great cause; deftly blended, think succulent red fruits galore with a hint of soft spice.

4. Terra Organica Rioja Crianza 2020, Spain, £11.25, Ocado

A youthful Rioja with excellent credentials – organic, vegan, sustainably made, and awarded Gold in The Drinks Business Global Rioja Masters 2024. Immediately enjoyable and overflowing with a fruit basket of ripe red cherry and strawberry fruit, complemented by touches of vanilla spice on the seamless finish; not to mention engaging aromas of cassis keeping you coming back for more.

5. Veramonte Reserva Carménère Organic 2020, Colchagua Valley, Chile, £13, Ocado

A super classy carménère, Chile’s flagship grape shines in this crystalline expression. With signature top notes of green bell pepper, savoury, earthy tones, black pepper and spice; dark, brambly fruits dominate this velvety smooth red and expressive lingering finish leaves a lasting impression.