Yealands Estate Wines

Yealands vision - “to be the most sustainable winery in the world” is very clear and all capital expenditure and operating decisions are evaluated against this target.

From day one Yealands’ ethos has been to: “think boldly, tread lightly and never say it can’t be done”. It has proven to be a defining strategy that has seen Peter Yealands develop New Zealand’s largest privately owned vineyard which features advanced green technology in every aspect of design and function.

Their strategic focus on innovative sustainability, backed up by an extensive range of achievements (such as CarboNZero accreditation) has provided a point of difference in a competitive marketplace. Sustainability considerations are integral to all decision-making, from viticultural practise to packaging design. Sustainability, in a social and environmental sense, is at the very core of Yealands business ethos. This ethos influences everything in their day to day business, from purchasing decisions and supplier selection, to the manner in which they promote their wines.

Packaging - The industry traditionally packages its product primarily in glass, this is heavy and has a large carbon footprint to manufacture and distribute. Yealands have developed alternative packaging but the challenge they face is getting this accepted by wine consumers that are swayed by tradition.

Last year Yealands introduced the first wine to be packaged in NZ in PET (plastic) in a traditional 750ml bottle. It’s 89% lighter in weight, took 19% less energy to make and produces 54% less greenhouse gas emissions. It has proved popular with boaties, trampers and people heading out for a picnic. They are currently working on the second generation which will be more attractive and have added recycling features.

Yealands works to curb the negative effects of excess drinking and are looking at producing a low alcohol Riesling for people to enjoy with an afternoon lunch. All cellar door staff have completed a bar managers course that focuses on Host Responsibility, and always ensue water and crackers are available at tastings and supply orange juice for the drivers. Their new website also promotes responsible drinking and requested that user be over the legal drinking age to enter.

By using technology, creativity and innovation Yealands endeavour is to be the most sustainably focused winery in the world.