The Cove Wines Team has carefully selected a portfolio of wines from across the globe. The Cove Wines were selected based upon the quality, the unique expression of the grape or grape blends, the style and the vineyard's environmentally conscious approach to winemaking.
The Cove Wines are made with 100% sustainably grown grapes
The Cove Wine team partners with winemakers who understand the importance of giving back to the planet and producing wines from sustainably grown grapes. The process of growing sustainable grapes starts with the sun, soil, climate and care of the vineyard workers. The difference between a conventional vineyard and the vineyards that produce The Cove Wines is the awareness of the impact on the environment."
Sustainable vs. Organic
Organic agriculture is defined by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) as: "an ecological production management system that promotes and enhances biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity. It is based on minimal use of off-farm inputs and on management practices that restore, maintain, and enhance ecological harmony."
The term "Sustainable" is actually even a broader term but takes the concept a bit further by describing a holistic approach that includes many agricultural practices that respect the environment and the ecosystem. Basically it means producing in harmony with the environment, building soil fertility, and generally protecting the environment beyond just the vineyard.
An organic farmer is primarily concerned with protecting the soil. In the vineyard, this concern is naturally cultivating the soil and planting cover crops, instead of applying herbicides. Harmful additives such as pesticides are not used in organic farming. Organic grape farmers introduce natural predators of insect pests instead of using insecticides. By not using herbicides and pesticides, the winemaker is able to work with the true flavor of the grape.
Wines with Low Levels of Sulfites
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), used to keep the wine from oxidizing while working with the barrels and at bottling, combines with the dissolved oxygen in the wine and becomes non-reactive (inert) SO3. The Cove Wines are not released from the winery until the SO2 reaches non-reactive levels.
See www.cleanwine.info for more information
Deerfield Ranch Winery
The Cove Wines has partnered with Deerfield Ranch Winery to produce the Sonoma Valley Collection. The winery is located in the heart of California's Sonoma Valley and is an organic producer, certified by CCOF. The estate's vineyards are organically farmed. Deerfield Ranch prides itself on being a green winery, focused on giving back to the earth. The winery recycles 98% of its wastewater on site and is focused on restoring surrounding wetlands with the state of California. Biodynamic farming practices, which focus on promoting soil health by using local inputs, are also employed. Deerfield creates its own compost, utilizing the organic waste from the water recycling process and grape skins from the winemaking process.
The Cove Wines hold certifications from:
- CCOF - USDA National Organic Program standards
- NOP - European Union National Organic Program
- ICEA - The Environmental and Ethical Certification Institute
