How to Drink Wine More Sustainably
Savoring wine isn’t just about the taste—it’s an opportunity to make choices that align with your values. Drinking sustainably doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or fun; it’s about being intentional, from vineyard to glass. Here’s how to approach wine with purpose, curiosity, and a sense of adventure.
Start with the Importer
One of the easiest ways to make sustainable choices is by shopping through importers you trust. Wine importers often curate selections that reflect their philosophy, region, or production style. If you find a few importers whose taste resonates with you, it’s like having a sommelier friend guiding your purchases.
Instead of relying solely on the artwork or price, flip the bottle and look at the back label. That’s where the importer information lives. Over time, recognizing your preferred importers will simplify your wine selection and allow you to make more intentional choices, even when the grape or region is unfamiliar.
Notable Sustainable Wine Importers
Here are a few importers leading the way in ethical, natural, and sustainable wines:
Jenny & François Selections
Focusing on French and French-style wines, Jenny & François make sustainability accessible. Their “From The Tank” boxed wine line offers natural, affordable wines without sacrificing quality—a perfect choice for everyday enjoyment.
Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant
A go-to importer for French and Italian wines, Kermit Lynch balances tradition and sustainability. From Beaujolais to rare finds, their portfolio spans price points, ensuring accessible wines that reflect care and quality. Kermit Lynch brings small and unique wines from the old country to the States, making them accessible for the everyday oenophile — like the cult favorite in the French natural wine movement, Catherine et Pierre Breton.
SelectioNaturel
Specializing in naturally made wines, mostly from Italy, SelectioNaturel champions funky, skin-contact wines and unique varietals. It’s an importer that invites exploration while prioritizing environmental integrity.
Fifi’s Imports
Fifi curates mostly French wines with personality. Their seasonal releases, like Octobre, turn even the least adventurous drinkers into fans of natural, carefully sourced wines.
Louis/Dressner Selections
With over 100 vignerons across Europe and Chile, Louis/Dressner maintains strict import standards. Choosing an LD wine is a reliable way to sip sustainably while exploring diverse regions and styles.
Additional Tips for Drinking Sustainably
Prioritize Organic or Biodynamic Wines – Look for certifications or inquire about farming practices. Supporting vineyards that avoid synthetic chemicals benefits both the planet and your palate.
Choose Local Where Possible – Seek out local natural wine shops or co-ops. Reducing transportation lowers your carbon footprint and supports small businesses.
Mind the Packaging – Boxed and canned wines can be surprisingly sustainable. They often use less packaging material and reduce waste.
Recycle & Reuse – Rinse bottles, return them if possible, and repurpose or recycle corks or boxes creatively. Every little action adds up.
Learn & Share – As you explore sustainable wines, share discoveries with friends and family. Expanding awareness helps the market grow and encourages ethical practices.
Make Sustainability Your Sommelier
Sustainable wine drinking is more than a trend—it’s a practice rooted in curiosity, care, and intention. By focusing on importers, production practices, and packaging, you create a ripple effect: supporting ethical vineyards, reducing environmental impact, and enjoying richer, more meaningful wine experiences.
Next time you reach for a bottle, consider the story behind it. Who grew it? How was it made? And what ripple will your choice create?
Sustainable wine is not just about drinking—it’s about savoring purpose in every pour. Cheers!