Category: Featured News

June 11, 2024

Bonterra Organic Estates Introduces New Winemaking Team Alongside Reimagined Label

America’s Favorite Organically Farmed Wine Enters Next Era Amid Exponential Growth

HOPLAND, Calif., (June 12, 2024) – Bolstered by 16 percent growth in the first quarter of 2024 across a diverse portfolio of organically farmed wines1, Bonterra Organic Estates today announced powerhouse winemaker Margaret Leonardi-Pruett will helm the brand’s beloved Bonterra Collection as Senior Winemaker, beginning with the 2024 vintage.

Following the retirement of celebrated Bonterra winemaker Jeff Cichocki, Leonardi-Pruett joins Sebastian Donoso in fueling the brand’s burgeoning momentum. Donoso, the esteemed winemaker behind Bonterra’s award-winning Single Vineyard Collection, adds the brand’s Regenerative Organic Certified® Estate Collection to his repertoire, while viticulture expert and climate-smart farming advocate, Joseph Brinkley, continues to oversee vineyard operations for Bonterra.

Building on a Legacy

“I am thrilled to join Sebastian in stewarding a heritage brand that places so much value on how we impact the environment and communities,” said Leonardi-Pruett. “Working with organic grapes from vineyards throughout the state of California gives me the opportunity to express the pure quality that organic farming affords us.”

To this new role, Leonardi-Pruett brings nearly 15 years of experience crafting award-winning wines for a diverse array of celebrated brands. She joined the company in 2015 and most recently served as head winemaker for Fetzer, becoming the first woman to lead the brand’s winemaking team in its more than 50-year history. Donoso, whose winemaking career spans more than 17 years, joined Bonterra Organic Estates in 2017. He previously crafted small-lot wines from organic vineyards at Campovida and Saracina wineries in Mendocino County.

Both Leonardi-Pruett and Donoso bring a wealth of expertise and a collaborative spirit to their individual roles, acting as a sounding board–and a tasting palate–for one another, and inspiring new ideas and innovations.

“I’m excited about the invigorating energy Margaret brings to Bonterra, and I look forward to working closely with her on crafting our portfolio of Bonterra wines,” said Donoso, recently elevated to Senior Winemaker at Bonterra Organic Estates. “I am especially passionate about our estate-grown fruit, because it gives me the opportunity to accentuate the nuances that make inland Mendocino County unique.”

The Next Generation of Bonterra Packaging

As Bonterra embarks on its next chapter, consumer interest in organically farmed wine is soaring. Amid a downturn in conventional wine sales (-0.9 percent), sales of organic wine grew an impressive 27.9 percent in the first quarter of 20242, indicating consumer preferences are shifting toward values-aligned brands like Bonterra–which aptly means Good Earth. And as consumers increasingly recognize wine made from organic grapes as an integral part of a broader farm-to-table movement, Bonterra is poised to continue its impactful role in the category’s growth; the brand is accelerating with a velocity change of 13 percent3.

As consumers evolve toward more sustainable wine options, Bonterra is reimagining its label for the Bonterra Collection, bringing a fresh and modern aesthetic to the brand’s longstanding organic ethos. In addition to its contemporary block-letter logo, the next-generation label heralds Bonterra’s commitment to promoting biodiversity as a fundamental tenet of organic grape growing. Hand-drawn illustrations of specific beneficial insects and birds found on Bonterra’s estate–matched to each varietal–spotlight the invaluable contributions of wildlife to the vineyard ecosystem.

“Our new packaging reflects our deep roots in environmental stewardship and our optimistic outlook toward the future of climate-smart farming and eco-minded winemaking,” said Rachel Newman, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Bonterra Organic Estates. “This pivotal moment marks the start of a new era in Bonterra’s nearly 40-year history, and gives us the opportunity to connect in a meaningful way with consumers who share our values.”

References 

[1] Circana L13 Weeks ending 03-31-24, Total Mulo + C
[2] Circana L13 Weeks ending 03-31-24, Total Mulo + C
[3] Circana L13 Weeks ending 03-31-24, Total Mulo + C

April 11, 2024

Casillero Del Diablo Becomes Official Wine of the Mexican National Teams in the U.S

Mexico’s Number One Wine Brand and FMF Form Multi-Year Partnership

NEW YORK (April 3, 2024) – The Federación Mexicana de Fútbol (FMF) and Soccer United Marketing (SUM), the commercial arm and partner of Mexico’s annual U.S. “MexTour” for more than two decades, today announced a multi-year partnership with Casillero del Diablo, which was named the official wine of the senior Mexican National Teams in the U.S. – including men’s and women’s teams.

Casillero del Diablo, recognized as the second most powerful wine brand in the world[1], is the number one wine brand in Mexico,[2] and the leading import brand in the U.S.[3] The Chilean brand is sold in more than 100 counties across the world, and its wines have received more than 109 scores of 90 points and above in recent years[4]. With a reputation as a global standard-bearer for quality that dates to the release of the brand’s first wine in 1966, Casillero del Diablo will increase its brand awareness through this wide-ranging partnership with a combination of high visibility in-venue signage and fan experiences, which includes the development of limited-edition branded wine bottles. The brand will also showcase a suite of innovative, sensory-focused activations that will build momentum and relevance for the brand across the Mexican National Teams’ fanbase in the U.S.

“Casillero del Diablo is thrilled to unite with the Federación Mexicana de Fútbol and Soccer United Marketing in this exciting partnership,” said Rodrigo Maturana, president of Marketing for Viña Concha y Toro USA, which has Casillero del Diablo in its acclaimed portfolio of wines. “As the official wine of the Mexican National Teams in the U.S., we’re poised to amplify the Casillero brand presence and engage fans through innovative experiences. This collaboration symbolizes a strategic alliance, blending tradition with forward-thinking approaches to enhance the fan journey and entice new consumers to the wine category.”

Both the Mexican Men’s and Women’s National Teams will play a series of games across the United States, as the Mexican Men’s National Team recently announced the upcoming U.S.-based friendlies which include matches against Bolivia (May 31 in Chicago), Uruguay (June 5 in Denver), Brazil (June 8 in College Station, Texas), New Zealand (Sept. 7 in Pasadena, Calif.) and Canada (Sept. 10 in Arlington, Texas). Tickets and more information are available at www.SomosLocales.com.

“We are always pleased to introduce a sponsor of the Mexican National Teams, and we couldn’t be more excited to officially bring Casillero del Diablo into our family,” said Enrique Nieto, FMF Director of Strategic Alliances. “We are confident that with Mexico’s leading wine brand on our team, together we will connect with MNT fans through great experiences.”

Now in its 21st edition, the MexTour has delighted sports fans across the United States with marquee soccer matches against top opponents at world-class venues, including most U.S. stadiums scheduled to host 2026 FIFA World Cup matches. More than just a game, each tour stop features the AT&T Futbol Fiesta fan fest, as well as fan and media events throughout the markets. Mexico’s supporters have responded with an average attendance of nearly 60,000 per match in the last decade, thanks to its estimated fan base of 60 million people (study: Equation Research). With a conglomeration of top blue-chip sponsors, the MexTour is recognized as one of the most successful sports properties on the continent. On the pitch, MexTour matches allow the team to prepare for important competitions such as the FIFA World Cup, the Concacaf Gold Cup, and CONMEBOL Copa America.

“The Mexican National Team is a driving force of the sport and its growth across North America, and Soccer United Marketing is proud to announce Casillero del Diablo as the Federation’s latest U.S. partner, said Carter Ladd, Soccer United Marketing Chief Revenue Officer. “Casillero del Diablo is legendary, global winemaker, and we know Mexico’s massive, passionate fanbase in America will enjoy this partnership for many years to come.”

For more information, please visit www.SomosLocales.com or www.casillerodeldiablo.com.

About Soccer United Marketing

Soccer United Marketing (SUM), the commercial arm of Major League Soccer, is the preeminent commercial soccer enterprise in North America, overseeing the commercialization, marketing, promotion, and operational execution of the region’s most successful soccer entities. SUM holds the exclusive rights to Major League Soccer, the Mexican National Teams for the U.S. market (MexTour and MexTour W), Leagues Cup, Campeones Cup, Copa Angelina and Concacaf Properties (including Concacaf Gold Cup™, Concacaf Nations League Finals, Concacaf Champions Cup and Concacaf W). In addition, SUM held the promotional and commercial rights to the highly successful 2016 Copa America Centenario.

[1] Wine Intelligence Report (2018 -2023; six consecutive years)

[2] Brand Equity Study, 2022 – Kantar

[3] Circana / Total US MULO+C / 52 weeks ending 12-31-23

[4] Scores from 2016 – March 2024 across global industry trade publications

About Casillero del Diablo

Rooted in a mysterious 19th Century tale about the “Devil’s Cellar,” Casillero del Diablo is a legend more than 140 years in the making. In the 1880s, Don Melchor de Concha y Toro was revered for crafting some of Chile’s finest wines. To fend off thieves who pilfered coveted bottles from his cellar, Don Melchor spread a rumor that the Devil himself guarded the wines. The tale he spun kept his cellar untouched, sparking a mysterious legend that has passed from generation to generation. Today, Casillero del Diablo crafts award-winning wines that evoke Chile’s extraordinary wine regions, and are sold across 100 countries across the world. The collection includes a Cabernet Sauvignon sourced primarily from Maipo Valley; a Carmenere consistently acclaimed by wine critics; a bright, coastal Sauvignon Blanc; and a crisp Rosé. With more than 109 scores of 90 points and above in recent years, Casillero del Diablo is an unforgettable source or exemplary Chilean wines that live up to their legend.

March 27, 2024

Bonterra Organic Estates Introduces Regenerative Organic Certified® Estate Sauvignon Blanc Ahead of Earth Month

Springtime Offering Arrives Amid Soaring Consumer Demand for Regenerative Organic Products

On the heels of skyrocketing growth in the Regenerative Organic Certified® food and beverage category–and just in time for the return of outdoor sipping–Bonterra Organic Estates, America’s largest Regenerative Organic Certified winery, is introducing its first-ever Bonterra Estate Sauvignon Blanc, crafted entirely from estate-grown Regenerative Organic Certified vines in Mendocino County, California. The bright and aromatic offering dovetails the arrival of spring with resounding momentum for the regenerative organic movement; U.S. consumers spent $39M on Regenerative Organic Certified food and beverage products in 2023 , a year-over-year increase of 39 percent .

“Our new Estate Sauvignon Blanc marries the regenerative organic ethos with the quintessential varietal of spring,” said Hilary Butler, senior director of Marketing for Bonterra Organic Estates. “Now, fans of Sauvignon Blanc’s crisp, refreshing character can feel confident–during Earth Month and beyond–their wine is made by artisans who care deeply about soil health, animal welfare and social fairness.”

Sauvignon Blanc: Spring’s Favorite Varietal
It’s no secret wine consumers are clamoring for Sauvignon Blanc. Sales of the varietal grew 6.8 percent in 2023 ; Bonterra Sauvignon Blanc sales outpaced total growth for the varietal with an impressive 11-percent increase in 2023 . As much of the country gears up for all that spring promises–dining al fresco, mingling at backyard soirees, and lounging by the pool with a glass of wine in hand–the 2023 Bonterra Estate Sauvignon Blanc delivers a mouthwatering combination of citrus, passionfruit and lime zest, enveloped in crisp acidity.

The inaugural release is fresh, vibrant and profoundly aromatic, with pronounced citrus notes. Additionally, a small portion of the blend was fermented in oak barrels, giving the wine a rich, round mouthfeel.

The Bonterra Estate Collection: Regenerative Organics, Bottled

The 2023 Bonterra Estate Sauvignon Blanc joins a line-up of lauded wines crafted exclusively from Regenerative Organic Certified grapes grown on Bonterra’s Mendocino County ranches: the 2022 Bonterra Estate Chardonnay, awarded 93 points by Wine Enthusiast (May 2024); the limited-release 2022 Bonterra Estate Red Blend, awarded 93 points by Wine Enthusiast (May 2024); and the 2022 Bonterra Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, named Best of Class at the 2024 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

Since its founding more than 35 years ago, Bonterra Organic Estates has remained a symbol of organic viticulture, rooted in a commitment to “leave the earth better than we found it.” Longtime pioneers of regenerative organic practices–before such a moniker existed–Bonterra today leads the wine industry with its steadfast advocacy of climate-smart farming and a 35-percent share of the market for wines made from organic grapes . Eco-conscious consumers have responded emphatically: Sales of Bonterra’s organically farmed wines grew seven percent in 2023 .

The nonprofit Regenerative Organic Alliance–a group of experts in farming, ranching, soil health, animal welfare, and farmer and worker fairness–developed the Regenerative Organic Certified program to move beyond sustainable and organic farming, incorporating three vital pillars into one rigorous certification: soil health, animal welfare and social fairness. Bonterra Organic Estates’ vineyards and winery achieved certification in 2021, with the first Regenerative Organic Certified grapes harvested that same year.

“How we treat the land, animals and people is fundamental to our core values,” said Joseph Brinkley, director of Regenerative Organic Development for Bonterra Organic Estates. “The social component of the Regenerative Organic Certified program is particularly important, because it moves beyond understanding how to farm without exploiting the soil to understanding how to farm without exploiting people. We think of it as farming in service of life.”

The inaugural release of Bonterra’s Estate Sauvignon Blanc–from the remarkable 2023 harvest in Mendocino County, California–celebrates the power of regenerative organics and heralds the arrival of spring with a vibrant, citrus-accented wine.

The 2023 Estate Sauvignon Blanc is available for purchase at bonterra.com and in wine shops throughout the U.S. Bonterra’s Estate Collection wines are priced at $21.99.

December 4, 2023

Bonterra Organic Estates Launches Limited Release Regenerative Organic Certified® Red Blend Exclusively Online

Online exclusive available in time for holiday gatherings and gifting occasions.

HOPLAND, CA., December 5, 2023 —  Just in time for the holidays, Bonterra Organic Estates®, the leading producer of Regenerative Organic Certified® (ROC) wine, proudly unveils the 2022 Red Blend as the latest addition to its esteemed Bonterra Estate Collection. Responding to enthusiastic demand from Bonterra fans, this limited release is poised to debut exclusively on the brand’s website starting December 4.

Bonterra Organic Estates sets the benchmark for ROC wines worldwide. The Red Blend is the third ROC wine in the esteemed Bonterra Estate Collection following the successful launch of the 2021 Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon earlier this year. A unique blend of Petite Sirah, Malbec, with a touch of Zinfandel, the Red Blend is a luscious, full-bodied wine boasting layered black cherry, black currant, and spice notes. Enjoyable immediately or suitable for cellaring for up to five years, this 100% estate-grown wine is bottled in the incomparable Mendocino County AVA.

Hilary Butler, senior director of marketing for Bonterra Organic Estates, emphasizes, “The Red Blend is a testament to four decades of pioneering organic viticulture and our commitment to cultivating a better future.”

Bonterra Organic Estates, one of only 15 wineries in the United States to achieve Regenerative Organic Certification, certified all its Mendocino County vineyards and the winery at the silver level in 2021. Dedicated to transparent and responsible business practices, the winery holds additional certifications, including B Corp, TRUE Zero Waste, and Climate Neutral, and is a California Certified Organic Farmer.

Organic wine sales grew + 7% in volume from 2017 to 2022 in the United States. With Bonterra’s commitment to regenerative organic practices, it has emerged as the leading organic brand boasting 36% market share and surpassing performance in the super premium segment.[1] Remarkably, within a single year, the introduction of the Estate Collection has broadened its reach to over 5,000 points of distribution across the U.S. and offering direct shipping to consumers in 40 states nationwide.[2]

Starting on December 4, the Red Blend will be available for purchase on Bonterra.com. This online exclusive offering reflects Bonterra Organic Estates innovative and consumer-centric approach, catering to the preferences of the modern, eco-conscious wine consumer.

SRP: $22.00

[1] IWSR, “Sustainability concerns drive interest in organic, natural and alternative wines”

[2] Bonterra +4.4% dollar sales in latest 26 weeks ending 10/1/23 – Circana/Total US MULO+C – Domestic 750ml Super Premium Segment

July 20, 2023

Bonterra Organic Estates Unveils New Leadership Structure to Drive Growth and Success in a Rapidly Evolving Global Wine Market

Hopland, Calif. Jul 20, 2023 – Bonterra Organic Estates, the trailblazer of organic viticulture, announces a significant milestone with the introduction of a transformative co-management structure. This dynamic approach underscores the company’s dedication to teamwork, disciplined excellence and continues its pioneering leadership that began in the 1980s when the winery planted some of the first organically farmed vines in the industry.

Recognizing the need for agility and adaptability in the face of evolving market dynamics, Bonterra Organic Estates departs from convention by appointing four Presidents, each leading an independent division and reporting directly to the Bonterra Organic Estates Board of Directors in Chile.

Leading the Commercial Unit, President – Sales & Wholesale Allison Wetsel will accelerate Bonterra Organic Estates’ growth with her track record of success. Meanwhile, President – Marketing Rodrigo Maturana’s exceptional market acumen will power brand campaigns. Formerly Senior Vice Presidents, both will spearhead their respective divisions.

Managing the support unit President – Finance & Administration Emmanuel Garibay will lead the areas of Administration, Finance, Human Resources, and Management Control. At the same time, President – Operations Erik Olsen will oversee all aspects of Vineyard, Winemaking, and Winery Operations, Production, and Supply Chain. The respective former Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer bring a wealth of expertise to their units, ensuring efficient cross-functionality.

Viña Concha Y Toro SA Chief Executive Officer Eduardo Guilisasti Gana expressed unwavering confidence in the four-division leadership of its subsidiary Bonterra Organic Estates, stating, “Our new management model will take our business to new heights, leveraging the power of collaboration, innovative management, and the extraordinary talent and expertise within our organization.” He added, “I must express my deep gratitude to Giancarlo Bianchetti for his steadfast commitment during his exceptional 12-year tenure as CEO of Bonterra Organic Estates. His disciplined approach and visionary leadership shaped our sustainability strategy and drove our growth. As we embark on this new chapter, I am pleased to welcome Giancarlo back to Viña Concha y Toro in Chile.”

This bold approach not only reflects Bonterra Organic Estates’ commitment to fostering collaboration and driving innovation but also aligns with its spirit as an industry forerunner. The power-sharing arrangement facilitates timely and strategic decisions, leveraging the complementary expertise of the four division presidents. Furthermore, this inclusive leadership fosters resilience and agility, crucial attributes to thrive in the rapidly evolving global wine market.

This new structure positions Bonterra Organic Estates to seize opportunities, adapt to evolving consumer demands, and maintain leadership as the organic wine pioneer. By continuing its legacy of innovation and embracing collaborative leadership, the company will navigate the ever-changing global wine market with confidence and remain at the forefront of sustainable and exceptional winemaking.

December 6, 2022

Bonterra Organic Estates Named Green Company of the Year 2022 by The Drinks Business

Beverage industry’s only global green-specific awards honor the company’s commitment to regenerative organic farming, responsible business practices and environmental stewardship.

HOPLAND, Calif., December 6, 2022 – Bonterra Organic Estates®, a certified B Corporation, has been honored as Green Company of the Year by the drinks business magazine. This recognition highlights the company’s acceleration of longstanding impact initiatives over the last 12 months, from achieving Regenerative Organic Certification® for all of its estate vineyards and winery, to formally changing the organization’s name from Fetzer Vineyards to Bonterra Organic Estates in order to more clearly emphasize its guiding values.

The drinks business Green Awards are the world’s largest program raising awareness of sustainability and mission-driven companies in the beverage trade, and the only set of green-specific awards that encompass the global beverage industry. These awards recognize and reward the brands and individuals who hold a green agenda at the very heart of their businesses, and demonstrate tangible results. Winners are determined by an independent panel of sustainability and drinks industry experts. The Green Company of the Year Award, awarded to Bonterra Organic Estates this year, salutes a beverage company that has both improved its own direct environmental impact through changes to business practices, and promoted this effectively to a wider audience.

“Wine and agriculture are on the front lines of the climate crisis, which means we are uniquely positioned to pioneer best practices that help cultivate a better future for all,” said Giancarlo Bianchetti, CEO of Bonterra Organic Estates. “We are deeply gratified by this recognition of our efforts by industry peers, and will continue working to improve our environmental impact further—and, hopefully, to inspire other companies around the world to do the same.”

This Green Company of the Year Award is the capstone of an eventful twelve months in Bonterra Organic Estates’ history. In December 2021, the winery secured Regenerative Organic Certification for all of its Mendocino County, California vineyards and winery. Bonterra Organic Estates achieved Silver-level certification by demonstrating adherence to rigorous standards across the program’s applicable pillars—soil health and social fairness—and committing to ongoing improvement. In late 2021, the company’s popular Bonterra brand also achieved Climate Neutral certification after measuring, reducing, and offsetting a full 100% of greenhouse gas emissions from production and delivery of the wines. To help educate and bring consumers along on its Climate Neutral journey, the company deployed a national marketing campaign around Climate Neutral wine, including full-page ads in the New York Times and Los Angeles Times.

Earlier this year, Bonterra Organic Estates also formally committed to the Science-Based Target initiative, a global partnership that empowers ambitious climate action in the private sector by helping organizations set and achieve emissions reduction and decarbonization targets grounded in the best available scientific evidence. Additionally, as a result of Bonterra Organic Estates’ ambitious and broad-ranging environmental efforts, B Lab, the global nonprofit network that certifies and mobilizes B Corporations, named the company a “Best for the World” in the Environment category this year – an award reserved for the top 5% of similarly sized global B Corps for positive environmental impact.  Finally, and most visibly, in August the company officially changed its name from Fetzer Vineyards to Bonterra Organic Estates in order to highlight its forward-thinking regenerative organic commitments.

Bonterra Organic Estates has long led its industry in modeling planet-friendly business practices and continues to advocate for climate-smart policies at the state and national levels. In 2015, then-Fetzer Vineyards became the first recipient of the California Green Medal Leader award, which recognized the winery’s longstanding sustainability commitments and leadership in the California wine industry. In 2017, the company was the only winery in the world to be commended at COP23 by the United Nations Climate Change secretariat, which recognized the winery’s work toward a climate positive future with a Lighthouse “Momentum for Change” Climate Solutions Award. In 2020, the company declared a climate emergency and committed to achieving climate-positive operations by 2030.

©2022 Bonterra Organic Estates, Mendocino County, California USA

August 2, 2022

Fetzer Vineyards Adopts the Operating Name Change of Bonterra Organic Estates

Fetzer Vineyards, one of the leading organic wineries in the U.S., announced today that it is adopting the operating name of Bonterra Organic Estates, effective immediately.

The name Bonterra Organic Estates affirms the company’s commitment to regenerative organic farming, responsible business practices and environmental stewardship. The new name applies to the company’s corporate identity, as well as its Mendocino County, Calif., vineyard holdings and winery. Bonterra Organic Estates will encompass the company’s California wine brands including Fetzer®, 1000 Stories®, and  Bonterra®, among others.

“Bonterra Organic Estates communicates the ethos of our California-based business and aligns with our dedication to regenerative organic farming,” said Giancarlo Bianchetti, CEO of Bonterra Organic Estates. “We are embarking on a new chapter, in which we trailblaze advancements in regenerative organic practices while honoring the deep roots of the Fetzer family legacy.”

The Fetzer family founded Fetzer Vineyards in 1968 and pioneered California’s regenerative organic viticulture movement, which prioritizes the health of the vineyard ecosystem and combats climate change. The Fetzer brand remains unchanged, continuing this legacy and offering a smart option for consumers at the popular price point.

Bonterra was born out of the Fetzer Vineyards winery in the late 1980s. Today it is one of the fastest-growing premium wine brands in the United States, thanks to the greater awareness of—and consumer demand for— wines made with organic grapes. Bonterra Organic Estates embraces regenerative organic viticulture, practicing it exclusively on all 960 acres of its estate vineyards in Mendocino County, Calif.

“In elevating the Bonterra name, we are building on our decades of environmental stewardship coupled with the innovative leadership style and business acumen of our parent company, Viña Concha y Toro,” Bianchetti added. “Our promise, as Bonterra Organic Estates, is to continue to prioritize the environment as this best serves our community, customers, and future generations.”

To learn more about Bonterra Organic Estates, visit www.bonterra.com.

ABOUT BONTERRA ORGANIC ESTATES  
As a Certified B Corporation, Bonterra Organic Estates is grounded in the transformational goals of regenerative business. Since its founding, the winery has been driven by excellence, innovation and longstanding commitments to the environment and responsible business practices. With a focus on crafting wines made from organic and Regenerative Organic Certified™ grapes, Bonterra Organic Estates produces leading wine brands from its facility in Mendocino County, California, including category leader Bonterra (named the 2016 Wine Enthusiast American Winery of the Year); sustainability standout Fetzer; and 1000 Stories, California’s original Bourbon barrel-aged wine.

July 26, 2022

Bourbon Barrel-Aged Wine Pioneer 1000 Stories Introduces Distinctive American Barrel-Aged Pinot Noir and Chardonnay

Newly Appointed Master Winemaker Sebastian Donoso Sets A New Course For The Future Of 1000 Stories

1000 Stories, the winery that boldly pioneered bourbon barrel-aged wines, is writing a new chapter debuting wines aged in virgin American oak starting with American Barrel-Aged Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This comes at a time when Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are driving growth in the Ultra Premium wine category—growing 3.4% and 2.1% year on year respectively.1

1000 Stories has also appointed celebrated winemaker Sebastian Donoso to lead its winemaking operations, ushering in a new era for the brand. This marks the passing of the torch from 1000 Stories founding winemaker Bob Blue who retired in June. Blue is known for breaking the winemaking status quo when he began aging Zinfandel in bourbon barrels to create 1000 Stories in 2014.

“1000 Stories has always been about deliberately matching variety to oak – what’s possible when you explore that connection as a conscious element of flavor, rather than as a characteristic to de-emphasize, like in more traditional winemaking,” said Donoso. “Making these wines pushes me to be more experimental and bolder in my craft.”

Donoso works with coopers who source the American oak from eastern Minnesota and season barrels outdoors for 24 months. The barrels are then toasted to a specific toast level intended to bring out desired aroma and flavor characteristics, while also respecting the fruit. After Donoso selects premium lots from California vineyards and vinifies the grapes, the final blends are then aged in the American oak barrels, which adds a depth of flavor and creaminess to the wine’s mouth feel, alongside notes of vanilla, coconut oil, allspice, dried herbs and earth. The end result distinguishes these wines from their counterparts that are more often aged in French oak, creating a distinctively new drinking experience.

“We’re thrilled to share our unique approach to these beloved wine varietals with consumers,” said Tiffany Tran, senior brand manager for 1000 Stories. “At 1000 Stories we have always pushed winemaking boundaries and continue to do so with our new American Barrel-Aged wines. We’re offering an unexpected take on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and a special wine drinking experience.”

Born from a profound respect for the natural world and an innate curiosity about what lies beyond our own four walls, 1000 Stories wines are a celebration of the world around us and an homage to the importance of our country’s natural abundance. The newly launched American Barrel-Aged Pinot Noir and Chardonnay represent the winery’s forward thinking commitment to innovation and provide a glimpse into the future of the brand.

To kick start that future, the debut of the 1000 Stories American Barrel-Aged Pinot Noir and Chardonnay will usher in a new look that will debut across the entire portfolio. This new design is inspired by vintage spirits bottles and proudly continues to feature the brand’s emblematic bison icon—a nod to the American symbol that’s a cultural representation of wildness and freedom in the natural world.

The 750ml Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, priced at $19.99, will be available in August and October respectively, and the entire 1000 Stories collection in new packaging will begin shipping to retailers nationwide in October. Wine enthusiasts can sample the new American Barrel-Aged Pinot Noir and other wines from 1000 Stories at the Outside Lands music festival running August 5-7, 2022 in San Francisco. Learn more about the collection and 1000 Stories at http://www.1000storieswines.com

About 1000 Stories 

Expertly crafted by Master Winemaker Sebastian Donoso, 1000 Stories brings an expressive and bold take to wines. Starting with bourbon barrels and expanding to American oak, the nuance and character of each wine is brought to life through our barrel aging process. Named an IMPACT “Hot Prospect” brand three years in a row for its trailblazing portfolio, 1000 Stories consistently garners point scores of 90 or above from celebrated publications. The collection includes the new American Barrel-Aged Pinot Noir and Chardonnay along with the Bourbon Barrel-Aged Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Red Blend. Each bottle conveys our curiosity about the world around us and ongoing commitment to sparking that curiosity in all of us. To learn more, visit www.1000storieswines.com

1“Source: IRI L52 weeks ending 7-22-2022 Ultra Premium $15–$19.99 Total US – MULO + C”

July 13, 2022

Bonterra Organic Estates Recognized as a 2022 B Corp “Best for the World” for Exceptional Impact on the Environment

Company’s longstanding commitment to regenerative agriculture and climate-friendly business practices lands it in the top five percent of global B Corps in the Environment impact area.

Bonterra Organic Estates, a Certified B Corporation and leader in responsible business practices, has been named a 2022 Best for the World™ B Corp™ in recognition of its exceptionally positive impact on the environment. This recognition celebrates Bonterra Organic Estates’ longtime regenerative business operations and puts the company in the top five percent of similarly sized global B Corps for positive environmental impact.

The Best for the World recognition is administered by B Lab, the global nonprofit network that certifies and mobilizes B Corps, which are businesses that meet high standards of positive social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. B Lab annually grants the Best for the World distinction to Certified B Corps whose verified B Impact Scores in the five impact areas evaluated in the B Impact Assessment — community, customers, environment, governance, and workers — rank in the top five percent of all B Corps in their size group.

After being recognized as a Best for the World “Changemaker” in 2018 and 2019 for making the most positive improvements to their overall impact, Bonterra Organic Estates, then known as Fetzer Vineyards, achieved an “Outstanding” New B Corp Score of 130 during its recertification in 2021, a notable 37% increase from its previous score. Now, the company adds the 2022 “Best for the World” in the Environment impact area designation to its accomplishments.

“Bonterra Organic Estates has championed regenerative organic agriculture and responsible business practices since our founding, and we are honored to be in this position of leadership within the global B Corp community,” said Giancarlo Bianchetti, CEO of Bonterra Organic Estates. “Looking ahead, we plan to build on this momentum and will continue to develop forward-thinking initiatives, both within the environment impact area and beyond.”

In 2020, the winery declared a climate emergency and committed to achieving climate-positive operations by 2030. The winery is now more than halfway to its goal thanks to significant emissions reductions efforts and pioneering Climate Neutral Certification, which it achieved for its two largest brands, Bonterra and Fetzer, in 2021.

Additionally, Bonterra Organic Estates is presently the largest winery in the world to achieve Regenerative Organic Certification™ (ROC™), having secured Silver-level certification for all of its estate vineyards and winery in 2021. Prioritizing soil health, biodiversity, and the well-being of animals, workers, and the climate itself, this approach aims to repair a damaged planet and create a better future for all.

“With regenerative organic agriculture, farmers have the opportunity to be global superheroes. These practices make measurable, positive differences in the health and resilience of our environment and communities,” said Joseph Brinkley, director of regenerative farming for Bonterra Organic Estates. “The Best for the World designation shines a spotlight on these efforts, and will help us continue to share best practices with others.”

In addition to regenerative organic agricultural practices, Bonterra Organic Estates’ comprehensive environmental management system addresses waste generation, energy usage, water usage, and carbon emissions. In 2014, it became the first winery to achieve platinum certification through TRUE Zero Waste. More than three-quarters of all the company’s product input materials come from recycled, reused, or certified sustainably produced sources, and byproducts of wine production are composted. Smart water meters throughout the winery’s Hopland, California campus allow for swift identification and resolution of leaks and water waste incidents in real time. The Hopland campus also relies 100% on renewable energy sources.

Long an industry leader in modeling planet-friendly business practices, Bonterra Organic Estates continues to advocate for climate-smart policies at the state and national levels. In 2015, the company became the first recipient of the California Green Medal Leader award, which recognized the winery’s longstanding sustainability commitments and leadership in the California wine industry. In 2017, Fetzer Vineyards was the only winery in the world to be commended at COP23 by the United Nations Climate Change secretariat, which recognized the winery’s work toward a climate positive future with a Lighthouse “Momentum for Change” Climate Solutions Award.

Jun 14, 2022

Bonterra® Enters Sparkling Canned Wine Category with Organically Crafted Bubbles

Acclaimed organic vintner unveils carbonated cans, furthering leadership in super premium wine

Bonterra Bubbles launch image

On the heels of its pacesetting Climate Neutral certification, Bonterra Organic Vineyards, the organically grown wine category leader,1 builds on its incredible growth trajectory and success with the release of Bonterra Bubbles. The new collection of refreshingly fizzy 250ml cans, dubbed Bonterra Bubbles, aims to meet consumer demand for two surging categories: organic products and RTD (ready-to-drink) offerings. Available nationwide, Bonterra Bubbles debuts with a California Rosé and Brut, priced at $4.99 per can. This innovation follows the brand’s 2019 release of still canned wine in four-packs, the first nationally available organically farmed wine in cans.

“With the increasing variety of consumption occasions, the release of Bonterra Bubbles expands how, when and where consumers can enjoy Bonterra,” said Hilary Butler, director of marketing for Bonterra. “This expansion into sparkling canned wines signals our continued commitment to deliver on consumer trends and values. Bonterra Bubbles offer the same great quality as our acclaimed 750ml portfolio and will certainly be a crowd pleaser.”

As consumers continue to reach for alternatively packaged beverages, canned wine is poised for success. By 2028, canned wine is expected to be a $571.8 million-dollar market, with the popularity of sparkling selections remaining a bright spot in the category.2 Meanwhile the market for natural and organic products continues to boom and is estimated to reach $400 billion by 2030,3 with the production of organic wine projected to grow 10.2% between 2022 and 2030.4

“Organic winemaking is all about balance, and these cans strike the perfect balance between good quality wine and a style that doesn’t take itself too seriously,” said Winemaker Jeff Cichocki. “The versatility that comes from the purity of fruit flavor, lively acidity and carbonation, opens the door for fun and sometimes unexpected pairings: crispy, panko-crusted onion rings are my go-to for our Rosé. At the end of the day, the only guideline when cracking open a can of Bonterra Bubbles is to simply enjoy it.”

Launching with non-vintage canned Rosé and a white blend Brut, Bonterra Bubbles invites consumers to enjoy the brand’s low-intervention, organically farmed wine with a playful twist and effervescent attitude. Cichocki crafts the wines exclusively with certified organic grapes grown in California, blending varieties such as Grenache, Mourvèdre and Malbec in the Rosé, and Viognier and French Colombard in the Brut to create fresh, fruit-driven selections. Following fermentation and aging in stainless steel tanks for ultimate freshness, Cichocki ensures the blends are full of flavor and low in alcohol—the Brut comes in at 12% ABV and the Rosé at 12.3% ABV—before the wines are carbonated to create crisp, sessionable sippers with a refreshing, clean finish.

To celebrate the launch, Bonterra plans to unveil Bubbles during the Aspen Food & Wine Classic running June 17-19, and has teamed up with multiple influencers and brand ambassadors to be some of the first to try it.

“We are thrilled to be able to bring Bonterra Bubbles to the mountains this year—to retailers, restaurant owners, and brand ambassadors,” said Butler. “Bubbles offers that effervescent, perfectly balanced sip you’ve come to expect from Bonterra. We’re so pleased to make it easier than ever to enjoy.”

Bonterra Bubbles is available at retailers nationwide and online. To learn more about Bonterra Bubbles, follow the brand on Instagram and Facebook @Bonterra or visit Bonterra.com.

ABOUT BONTERRA

Leading with the belief that wine making is a collaboration with the land, Bonterra has been farming organically since 1987. Inspired by the purity of organic fruit, Bonterra has a low-intervention approach to wine making—its winery is certified organic, sustainable, and TRUE Zero Waste and operates on 100% renewable energy. Organically farmed and masterfully made, the Bonterra Organic Vineyards collection epitomizes wines that are perfectly in tune with nature. In addition to a widely available selection of organically farmed wines that includes Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Rosé and Zinfandel, Bonterra crafts a trio of sought-after single-vineyard offerings from estate vineyards in Mendocino County.

Bonterra is the world’s first organically farmed wine brand to be Climate Neutral® certified, meaning it takes responsibility for its emissions across its entire business scope. As part of the largest Certified B Corp wine company in the world, Bonterra advocates for policies around regenerative agriculture, healthy soils and sustainable water practices. Bonterra was awarded the 2020 California Green Medal in the Environment category in recognition of its legacy of environmental stewardship and ongoing leadership in climate-smart wine growing. More at www.Bonterra.com.

1 IRI L13 weeks ending 4-3-22. TTL US MULO + C
2 Grand View Research Market Analysis Report “Canned Wines Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Sparkling, Fortified), By Distribution Channel (Supermarket & Hypermarket, Online), By Region (APAC, North America), And Segment Forecasts, 2021 – 2028,” Link: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/canned-wines-market 
3 New Hope Network: Shara Rutberg, “Technology, J.E.D.I. are key to natural products’ growth, data show”, Mar. 9, 2022. Link: https://www.newhope.com/market-data-and-analysis/technology-jedi-are-key-natural-products-growth-data-show
4 Grand View Research Market Analysis Report “Organic Wine Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Red Organic Wine, White Organic Wine), By Distribution Channel (On-trade, Off-trade), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2022 – 2030,” Link: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/organic-wine-market-report?utm_source=prnewswire&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=fmcg_21-feb-22&utm_term=organic-wine-market-report&utm_content=rd1