Villa Maria Winery Visit

June 9, 2019

Blenheim, New Zealand

Towards the peak of the South Island, we were welcomed at Villa Maria, a well-renowned winery located in Blenheim in the heart of the Marlborough Region. This region is known for their dry climate, the river valleys running through the Richmond Ranges, and forest covered Wither Hill Range. Due to their dry climate and water resources from the rivers, the Marlborough Region is the perfect location for growing grapes for wine! While touring Villa Maria’s organic vineyards, we were able to discover pressing issues in the wine industry including, but not limited to, grape wastes, water usage, and chemical inputs (fertilizer, bottle making, and CCA treated posts).

It was incredible to learn how vineyards like Villa Maria are combating negative environmental impacts, especially in regard to New Zealand’s “clean and green” reputation. Drip irrigation, recycling of food wastes, and partnership between the scientific community and companies are all ways Villa Maria works to reduce their carbon footprint. Check out more specific information on this site visit in my Case Study 2 article located on my New Zealand 2019 page!