Champagne and Sustainability: A Day at Glass of Bubbly
The Live London Post editorial team recently had the delightful opportunity to attend the event “Glass of Bubbly“, an annual trade tasting that shines a spotlight on the world of Champagne and sparkling wines. Held at the elegant Sheraton Grand in Mayfair on April 30th, 2024, this event celebrated fine bubbles and sustainable practices within the industry.
The masterclass list was a veritable who’s who of the sparkling wine world, featuring discussions led by esteemed names such as Christopher Burr MW, Neil Phillips, and Jamie Goode. However, our team was particularly drawn to the Sustainability in Sparkling Wine Summit, presented by Prosecco DOC and steered by the charismatic Neil Phillips, which aimed to unwrap the layered topic of eco-conscious wine production.
Flavia dalla Nora, representing the Prosecco DOC consortium, provided a riveting introduction to their sustainable practices, from the careful selection of grapes to their export figures. Dr. Peter Stanbury from the Sustainable Wine Roundtable further captivated us with his insights into global sustainability trends within viticulture, emphasizing the role of innovation and community in fostering green practices.
A standout moment was our interaction with Villa Sandi, particularly through Andrea Samperi, their brand ambassador. Villa Sandi was justly celebrated with a sustainability trophy. Their Prosecco, “Il Fresco,” was our favourite, embodying the delicate balance between refined taste and responsible production with a soft, fruity, and elegant taste.
We also had the pleasure of speaking with Anna Nardi of Perlage Winery, whose dedication to organic and biodynamic practices left a lasting impression. Since 1985, the Nardi family has championed a vision that sees wine not just as a product of the land but as a testament to the land’s health and longevity. Their commitment to biodynamic principles and vegan-friendly processes highlighted a forward-thinking approach to winemaking.
Christopher Walkey, the founding director of Glass of Bubbly, aptly summarized the sentiment of the day, remarking, “Nature gives us a lot, and we like to give her something back.” This philosophy resonated through the halls, echoed by each pop of a cork and clink of a glass, reminding everyone present of the symbiotic relationship between nature and the nectar of the gods we so enjoy.
As we left the grandeur of the Sheraton behind, the lingering fizz of inspiration stayed with us. It was clear that the sparkling wine industry is not just about celebrating with a glass raised; it’s also about raising standards and awareness in sustainability efforts. We look forward to continuing the conversation on sustainability that could very well define the future of fine wine.