Michael Saunders on Mindful winemaking

‘Mindful winemaking’ is a phrase we coined at Bibendum to describe wines made using sustainable, organic and often biodynamic practices. They are made with the bigger picture in mind. The wine must be delicious, but also with a focus on its environmental impact. And on occasions helping the broader communities where they are made.

It’s a trend that’s here to stay. The market share for organic wine is set to double from 2019 to 2022 and as a business, we are working hard to make the most of that opportunity. Not only from a commercial perspective, but also because these are wines that I passionately believe in. Some of our longest standing producers are the best examples of mindful winemakers. From the small-batch, tiny grower-focused range from the Garage Wine Co., to David de Trafford’s phenomenal minimal intervention wines amongst others - mindful wines are well represented in our range.

Latest additions are also building on where we have got to. New to our English range we have Albourne Estate, whose sustainable approach you can find more about on our website; as well as several French producers who are championing biodynamics in the Loire Valley; and Kelly Washington Wines, who work with organic and biodynamic growers in Marlborough, New Zealand to make premium wines of provenance.

Not only are we turning our attention to the portfolio, but in house our efforts to be as eco-friendly as possible are increasing. We are one of the few drinks businesses to be ISO14001 certified; and our Vivid (the internal label we give) “green team” are always seeking out new ways to create a more sustainable working environment. A collaboration with The Sustainable Restaurant Association has seen us join as a member, something we are excited to be a part of.

Now is the time, and we have a responsibility to make a difference – while still supplying top quality, completely delicious wines and spirits!

*Please drink responsibly