Vignerons Engagés is the first label for corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable development in the world of wine in France. It is about much more than just environmentally friendly viticulture.
Vignerons Engagés is the first label for corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable development in the world of wine in France. It was launched in 2010 by the association Vignerons en Développement Durable and has since stood for much more than just environmentally friendly viticulture.
What is a sustainable wine? "A sustainable wine is one that conserves resources, enhances regions and makes it possible for winegrowers to make a living from their passion," explains Iris Borrut, the association's director. "For this reason, the Vignerons Engagés rely on a set of specifications based on the three pillars of sustainable development: Environmental, Economic and Social. More than a simple eco-label, it is a real philosophy of sustainability that is defended here."
The label covers all stages of the production chain, from vine to glass, and is based on the ISO 26000 standard, the international reference for sustainable development and corporate social responsibility recognised by more than 100 countries. Its specifications are audited and evaluated by AFNOR, an independent inspection bodý. The Charter of Vignerons Engagés is based on twelve commitments that combine environmental ethics, economic logic and social and societal responsibilityunǵ for the benefit of future generations and societies.
What exactly is a wine with the Vignerons Engagés label? For example, Château de Péna and its cuvée "Regards de Femmes" 2021: The cuvée was created in collaboration with the local association Equilibre 66, which offers support to women with cancer. The composition of the wine is determined by means of a tasting to which around 40 women are invited. Part of the proceeds from the sale of the wine will be donated to the organisation. For the first time with the 2001 vintage, 6 local women artists and the cellar master have designed the labels.
In summary, the Vignerons Engagés label stands for cuvées whose story is not only about wine, but also about a social commitment with local roots.
Although the Vignerons Engagés is only one of several associations for sustainable viticulture in France, it is anything but insignificant. It is at home in 30 IGP and 90 DOP from 8 wine-growing regions. Around 6000 winegrowers and employees from cooperatives, wineries and private vineyards produce wine today from 31800 hectares of vineyards and thus. 4.2% of the French vineyard area and 3.8% of the annual French wine production. And the collective of winegrowers who hold the colours of this label high continues to grow: 10 new members are currently in the process of being recognised.
Want to know more about environmental certification in France? Audrey Domenach presents in this article Audrey Domenach introduces the main labels and explains what they have in common and what makes them different.
Kim Schreiber and Marcus Hofschuster have currently tasted a small selection of a good 50 wines from the Vignerons Engagées, from which we present the best recommendations here. Links to all wines with detailed tasting notes as well as their producers can be found at the end of the lists.
Domaines Schlumberger
— Alsace
2018 Alsace Grand Cru AOC Kitterlé Riesling
39.00 €
Domaines Schlumberger
— Alsace
2018 Alsace Grand Cru AOC Kessler Riesling
31.75 €
Domaines Schlumberger
— Alsace
2020 Alsace Grand Cru AOC Saering Riesling
27.50 €
Cave de Tain L'Hermitage
— Rhône
2021 Saint Joseph AOC blanc Vin Biologique
20.85 €
Château de Pèna
— Roussillon
2021 Côtes du Roussillon AOP Blanc "Regards de Femmes"
10.00 €
Château de Pèna
— Roussillon
2022 Côtes Catalanes IGP "Pas d'Excuses"
9.00 €
Domaines Schlumberger
— Alsace
2020 Alsace AOC Riesling "Les Princes Abbés"
15.35 €
Cave de Lugny
— Burgundy
2021 Mâcon-Lugny AOC "Les Charmes"
9.90 €
Les Vignerons de Tavel & Lirac
— Rhône
2021 Tavel AOC "Si Différent!"
9.50 €
Villa Minna Vineyard
— Rhône
2015 Bouches-du-Rhône IGP "Minna Rouge"
25.00 €
Château de Pèna
— Roussillon
2020 Côtes du Roussillon-Villages AOC "ADN de Pena"
13.00 €
Artisans Vignerons - Rhonea
— Rhône
2020 Beaumes-de-Venise AOC "Confidence"
12.40 €
Agamy
— Beaujolais
2021 Brouilly AOC Louis Tête "Le Chatelin"
9.90 €
Dom Brial
— Roussillon
2021 Côtes du Roussillon Villages AOP "Mirade"
Cave de Tain L'Hermitage
— Rhône
2020 Saint Joseph AOC "Nobles Rives"
16.60 €
Artisans Vignerons - Rhonea
— Rhône
2020 Côtes du Rhone Villages AOC Visan "Notre Dame des Vignes"
Up to 12.00 €
Domaines Schlumberger
— Alsace
2019 Alsace AOC Pinot Noir "Les Princes Abbés"
16.50 €
Vignerons Createurs
— Roussillon
Brut "Mille Bulles"
8.80 €
