Eco-Luxury, Sustainable Estates, Wines and Spirits
There are few things that say “elegance” better than a truly fine wine. For centuries, wine has been a loved beverage for many. The cultivation of vines and the production of wine – formally known as viticulture – goes back at least 7,000 years. And over that time, civilizations have developed better techniques for making finer wine; developing viticulture first as a science and then as an art. Nowadays, we can be spoiled for choice. Any trip to your local supermarket or, even better, a specialty wine store will offer you hundreds, if not thousands, of different varieties of wine: from Amarone to Zinfandel, from Bordeaux to Brut. But of course, the vast majority of wines available are mass produced, tailored to suit the widest variety of palates; meaning it takes much creativity to set apart one Californian Pinot Noir from its international brethren.
That’s not to say this is a bad thing. Wine making has advanced to such a level that even reasonably priced wines may be palatable, if not delicious, when paired with the right food and company. But for the true aficionado, a fine wine needs to have that something extra that raises it above its peers. A touch of class which shows an innate respect for the natural world that provides us with wine in the first place.
So let’s explore three distinctive LVMH vineyards that do just that. These vineyards embody the best practices of wine making, have collected numerous awards, and have raised the bar for the future of luxurious and sustainable wines.
Newton Vineyard – United States
Nestled in the sunny hills of Northern California, Newton Vineyard is recognized as an American pioneer of unfiltered wines. Based on the traditional precepts of quality wine making, Newton Vineyard works in harmony with nature, to create unsurpassable wines of a distinctive character. Thanks to their sustainable farming practices, energy conservation, natural fermentation processes and bottling without filtration; Newton’s wines have a depth of flavor and a richness of bouquet, rarely found in today’s homogenized market.
When you visit, be sure to ask about its sustainable farming practices. Newton’s stunning vineyards sit on approximately 120 acres, out of its 560 acres. The reason is for its unfarmed land is to protect its natural habitat and wildlife. Another noteworthy mention is its natural-water irrigation. By utilizing its ponds in the summer and the valley’s aquifer in the winter, these safe and green methods aid in growing the finest grapes. Additionally, Newton is big on recycling and compost, and uses the pomace of grape skins as a natural fertilizer in its soil.
Annually, Newton collaborates with artist’s handmade designs to showcase its wine. Past projects include: Pino Solo Wine Tree, Puzzle Tray, The Element, The Touch and A Tasting Installation. All designs are available to purchase.
To truly appreciate the way Newton’s eco-friendly practices work and turn the best of nature’s bounty into an unforgettable gastronomic experience, you need to visit the beautiful vineyard and try it for yourself.
Cape Mentelle – Australia
A pioneer name to all who know about the great wine-making heritage, settled along Australia’s majestic Margaret River. Cape Mentelle is one of the founding vineyards of Western Australia’s world renowned wineries and quickly rose to be a benchmark for quality in the region. Mentelle also focuses on its environmental practices, to produce wine in the way nature intended. This includes the use of organic vines, natural fertilizers, mixed crops, recycling waste and waste water treatment; as well as eschewing the use of additives or chemical insecticides. The result is a series of wines including Sémillon, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz that are sensory experiences in themselves. Want to experience something unique? Don’t miss the open-air Cape Mentelle movie nights. Grab a glass of fine Aussie wine, sit back and relax under the stars from November to March.
Moët & Chandon – France
A brand that can be paired with ultimate luxury, Moët & Chandon is the vineyard which gave champagne to the world, at the end of the 18th century. That alone would have been enough to ensure immortality, but this pioneering vineyard has never been one to rest on its laurels. Rather, Moët & Chandon is driving forward innovative wine-making and socially responsible practices, while retaining the best from the past.
In particular, Moët & Chandon is committed to sustainable farming, ensuring the land receives as much back as it gives. By replenishing the natural habitat with nutrient-rich crops and actively encouraging the presence of beneficial insect life, Moët & Chandon give nature the tools it needs to protect itself; while treating nature’s gift to us with the reverence it deserves. No pesticides; no GMO crops; only the natural goodness of pampered vines.
Of course visiting the legendary cellars of Moët & Chandon, the largest in the champagne region, is a must for anybody who truly appreciates the finer things in life. Regularly scheduled tours of their enviable cellars take place throughout the year; but for the special visitor, bespoke tours can be arranged to suit your schedule.
Are you in pursuit of visiting some of the world’s best sustainable and luxury wineries? We recommend adding Newton Vineyard, Cape Mentelle, and Moët & Chandon to your bucket list. Not only will you experience firsthand the love these wineries have for their grapes and the planet, but your palate will thank you too!