Sustainability message a driver of wine sales

Sustainability is increasingly becoming a driver of wine sales, a new report reveals.

Sustainable Winegrowing Australia has released its Impact Report for the 2021–22 financial year, revealing record growth in membership by Australian grape growers and winemakers.

The report shows 48% growth in membership in financial year 22, with over 1,150 vineyards, wineries and wine businesses involved with 45% certified.

It says 75% of Australia's wine and grape growing regions are now committed to implementing sustainability practices and the program now represents 40% of total wine production in Australia - a 90% increase on the previous financial year.

Sustainable Winegrowing Australia is governed by the Australian Wine Research Institute, Australian Grape & Wine and Wine Australia.

The program supports grape growers and winemakers in measuring, reporting, and encouraging best practices in vineyards and wineries, amid rising consumer and retailer demands for sustainable products.

Wine Australia’s head of ESG and Market Access Rachel Triggs says: “It’s been another really challenging year for the industry facing extreme weather events and inflation pressures, and yet the growth in membership demonstrates that sustainability is a major priority for producers.

"United, we're making headway on the industry’s 2050 emissions and waste targets and looking ahead we are excited to be evolving with greater focus on the social and economic metrics of the program.

“Wine-drinkers and retailers around the world are increasingly seeking out brands that meet their sustainability standards, with 65% of Australian wine drinkers preferring sustainably made wine and 54% of global wine drinkers only trusting sustainable wine that is officially certified.

"Sustainable practices and the benchmarking provided by the program are essential to ensuring the Australian wine industry remains competitive while protecting the distinctive land, robust vines and quality wines Australia is known for globally.” 

The report highlights the progress vineyards and wineries, ranging from small independents to large brands, are making across environmental benchmarks.

“Successful sustainability is never done in isolation and it’s exciting to see the impact of the program not only with emissions reduction and waste but also in the reshaping of our business culture, making this a really great place to be, to work and to communicate," says Voyager Estate vineyard manager Glen Ryan.

Find out more about Sustainable Winegrowing Australia and download the report HERE.