Sustainability at the Aveleda Harvest
27 Aug 2024 / Sustainability
Sustainability has become a central concern in modern viticulture, and Aveleda, located in the Vinho Verde region, is no exception. Known for its fresh and vibrant wines, the region is at the forefront of implementing sustainable practices that protect the environment and promote the long-term health of the vineyards. Among these practices, mechanical harvesting and other green initiatives play essential roles.
Mechanical Harvesting
Mechanical harvesting is one of the most significant innovations in pursuing sustainable viticultural practices. While manual harvesting remains a valuable tradition, especially for premium wines and in areas that are difficult to mechanize, mechanical harvesting offers several sustainable advantages:
1. Reduction of CO2 Emissions: Mechanical harvesting can be more time- and energy-efficient, reducing the number of operating hours for machines and, consequently, the associated carbon emissions. Additionally, modern equipment is often designed to be more fuel-efficient.
2. Human Resource Savings: In times of labor shortages, mechanization helps ensure that grapes are harvested at the optimal time of ripeness, without the pressure of relying on a large number of seasonal workers.
3. Precision and Quality: Modern harvesting machines are equipped with technologies that allow precise adjustments to minimize damage to the grapes and ensure selective harvesting, which can result in less waste and higher quality of the harvested fruit.
1. Reduction of CO2 Emissions: Mechanical harvesting can be more time- and energy-efficient, reducing the number of operating hours for machines and, consequently, the associated carbon emissions. Additionally, modern equipment is often designed to be more fuel-efficient.
2. Human Resource Savings: In times of labor shortages, mechanization helps ensure that grapes are harvested at the optimal time of ripeness, without the pressure of relying on a large number of seasonal workers.
3. Precision and Quality: Modern harvesting machines are equipped with technologies that allow precise adjustments to minimize damage to the grapes and ensure selective harvesting, which can result in less waste and higher quality of the harvested fruit.
Sustainable Practices Beyond Mechanical Harvesting
In addition to mechanical harvesting, several other sustainable practices are adopted at Aveleda to promote more environmentally friendly and responsible viticulture.
1. Integrated Pest Management
The implementation of integrated pest management techniques reduces the need for chemical pesticides. By using natural predators, cultural practices, and, when necessary, low-impact phytosanitary products, the viticulture team can control pests more ecologically.
2. Cover Cropping and Green Manure
The use of cover crops between vineyard rows helps improve soil structure, increase biodiversity, and reduce erosion. Seedbeds, such as legumes, also contribute to nitrogen fixation, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
3. Efficient Water Management
Careful water management is essential for sustainability. Drip irrigation techniques, for example, allow precise water application, minimizing waste and preserving water resources.
4. Renewable Energy
Over the past few years, Aveleda has invested in renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaic panels and pellet boilers, to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and decrease the carbon footprint of wine production.
5. Packaging Changes
Aveleda has been reducing the carbon footprint of its wine packaging. From the use of lighter bottles to 100% recyclable cardboard boxes with only one color, Aveleda has already managed to reduce the carbon footprint of these materials by 20% during the first half of 2024 alone.
1. Integrated Pest Management
The implementation of integrated pest management techniques reduces the need for chemical pesticides. By using natural predators, cultural practices, and, when necessary, low-impact phytosanitary products, the viticulture team can control pests more ecologically.
2. Cover Cropping and Green Manure
The use of cover crops between vineyard rows helps improve soil structure, increase biodiversity, and reduce erosion. Seedbeds, such as legumes, also contribute to nitrogen fixation, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
3. Efficient Water Management
Careful water management is essential for sustainability. Drip irrigation techniques, for example, allow precise water application, minimizing waste and preserving water resources.
4. Renewable Energy
Over the past few years, Aveleda has invested in renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaic panels and pellet boilers, to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and decrease the carbon footprint of wine production.
5. Packaging Changes
Aveleda has been reducing the carbon footprint of its wine packaging. From the use of lighter bottles to 100% recyclable cardboard boxes with only one color, Aveleda has already managed to reduce the carbon footprint of these materials by 20% during the first half of 2024 alone.
The Future of Sustainability in Vinho Verde
Aveleda’s pursuit of sustainability is continuous and evolving, with a permanent commitment to innovate and adopt new practices to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. This approach not only benefits the environment but also results in wines that are a purer and more authentic reflection of the terroir.
As consumers become more aware of environmental issues, the demand for sustainably produced wines is increasing. Aveleda, in the Vinho Verde region, is well-positioned to meet this demand by combining centuries-old traditions with modern technologies and responsible practices.
Aveleda's Priority for a Resilient and Ecological Future
Sustainability in harvesting and viticulture is a priority in the Vinho Verde region. The combination of efficient mechanical harvesting and a range of sustainable agricultural practices ensures that this region continues to produce high-quality wines while protecting the environment. By adopting these practices, the region not only preserves its natural resources for future generations but also promotes healthier and more resilient viticulture, ensuring that its wines remain a delicious and responsible choice for wine lovers around the world.
Written by Aveleda