In harmony with nature
Sustainability has always been a central theme at Vallocaia, both in terms of Rudi Bindella’s entrepreneurial vision and his approach to human relations, for whom it consists of ‘disposing with respect, care, balance, with solid foundations and long-term thinking’. There are many concrete examples that have been carried out at the estate.
Spontaneous grassing
Grasses have been left to grow in at
least 50% of the vineyards and olive groves. The process brings numerous advantages, including limiting erosion and increasing the quality of organic substances in the soil. In addition, mowing grass requires much less energy than working the soil and therefore allows for a significant savings in fuel.
Tractors
We use agricultural tractors, which, in addition to being ergonomic and fundamental for our workers, are also extremely high performing: they consume an average of 20% less gasoline than older generation tractors.
Bottles
Since 2008, we only use bottles that weigh 500 grams, which significantly reduces the high emissions of CO2 caused during the production and transportation of glass, as well as the cost of the bottles.
Photovoltaic technologies
In the winery, solar panels were installed for a total energy output of 145 kWp; during daylight hours, they produce all the energy needed for the winery.
Our own production of electric energy corresponds to a reduction
of nearly 95,000 kg/year of CO2 emissions.
Solar heating
Hot water is produced by way of the sun’s rays: as it circulates through transparent cylinders, the water heats up and accumulates in insulated tanks, from which it is collected when needed.
Insulation and compartmentalization
Separating areas with differing heating needs is fundamental for energy optimization.
The various areas of the wine cellar have walls that contain isolating materials, and they are separated by hallways. Even the steel wine storage tanks are insulated in order to protect the wine from temperature fluctuations.
Phytoremediation
After undergoing a careful decantation process, the wastewater from the wine cellar is put into waterproof basins where aquatic plans, whose roots are rich in bacteria, break down polluting substances. Phytoremediation reduces significantly more CO2 emissions than other purification systems.
