With South Africans rationing the remaining wine stock, the good news is that two South African wineries received the newly introduced Robert Parker Green Emblem award, giving them something to look forward to when restrictions are lifted, Business Insider reports.
Reyneke Wineries in Stellenbosch and Sadie Family Wines in the Swartland region have been recognised for their sustainable methods of production.
Robert Parker is regarded as one of the most reputable authorities when it comes to wine, having developed the 100-point rating system. The Robert Parker Wine Advocate is a highly respected bi-monthly in the United States featuring reviews and awards by Parker and his team of international reviewers.
The publication recently released its Green Emblem list, recognising 24 wineries around the world for their efforts in environmental practices. Wine Advocate editor commented that the Green Emblem is an important initiative in conveying the increasing importance of sustainable practices in the wine industry: “No other wine appreciation website is … empowering wine lovers who want to drink more sustainably. With these new enhancements to our website, our subscribers now have the ability to easily find great wines produced with a like-minded philosophy of sustaining the health and viability of our planet for future generations.”
Even though wines certified as organic or bio-dynamic may have been awarded the green emblem, it’s not a prerequisite. The award takes into account the long-term environmental protection and biodiversity and those recognised for sustainable viticulture carry Parker’s Green Emblem across all the wines in their range.
Reyneke wines are listed as biodynamic – produces without chemical fertilisers, herbicides or synthetic pesticides or chemical additives. Owner and viticulturist Johan Reyneke told Business Insider South Africa that the Green Emblem means a lot to Reyneke Wines.
“Robert Parker is arguably one of the most influential wine critics in the world, and his recognition of our efforts in going green and being all things sustainable is a huge accolade.”
Unfortunately, the current ban on alcohol prevents South Africans from enjoying these incredible wines, but these awards stand as a testament to the quality and the world-class status of the South African wine industry that many are looking forward to enjoying again.
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Picture: Flickr Commons
