#United States #Appassionata Estate #Cork Collective #Oregon Wine #Newberg

A New Era of Sustainability in Oregon's Wine Industry

In an exciting development for the Oregon wine scene, Appassionata Estate has become the first winery in the state to collaborate with Cork Collective. This partnership is spearheaded by the esteemed German winemaker Ernst ‘Erni’ Loosen, known for his commitment to innovation and sustainability in winemaking. The alliance aims to transform cork waste into valuable resources, setting a precedent for cork recycling across Oregon.

Cork Collective: A Game Changer

Cork Collective is not simply an initiative; it's a movement dedicated to sustainability that repurposes natural cork stoppers—traditionally discarded after use—into new materials for a wide range of applications. By establishing a closed-loop system, Cork Collective ensures that these natural resources are reused, upcycled, and regenerated, thereby minimizing environmental waste. This endeavor not only supports recycling but also contributes to community projects that benefit the environment.

The Importance of Cork Recycling

Natural cork corks play a significant role in carbon dioxide sequestration. Cork stoppers have an impressive ability to retain large amounts of CO2, making them an essential ally in the fight against climate change. By recycling cork waste, Appassionata and Cork Collective are helping to keep these materials out of landfills and allow them to serve a greater purpose in ecological restoration.

Appassionata's Commitment to Sustainability

Tim Malone, Head of Winemaking and Viticulture at Appassionata Estate, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "We are excited to be at the forefront of this partnership and driving Cork Collective's impact in the Willamette Valley. Sustainability is central to our operations, and by partnering with organizations that share our vision, we can drive genuine change for the future of our industry."

Appassionata Estate will actively engage in collecting corks not only from their tasting room but also during events and blending sessions. This effort encourages patrons to participate in the initiative by bringing their own used corks for recycling. Engagement will extend to their customer base and wine club members, establishing a community of environmentally conscious wine lovers.

Expanding the Movement

Appassionata is committed to fostering broader participation in cork recycling efforts at both direct-to-consumer and trade levels. This initiative will positively impact the region, highlighting the importance of collective actions toward sustainability in the wine industry.

About Appassionata Estate

Founded with the vision of establishing a European-style wine estate in the heart of Oregon, Appassionata Estate is dedicated to crafting high-quality wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the Willamette Valley. The estate spans 40 acres on the picturesque slopes of the Chehalem Mountains and has been meticulously developed over nearly two decades. Their portfolio includes a variety of Pinot Noirs, a barrel-fermented Chardonnay, a distinctive Sauvignon Blanc, and a dry Riesling that exemplifies their commitment to quality and ageability.

About Cork Collective

Cork Collective’s founders, including well-known names such as Rockwell Group and Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits, are passionate about elucidating the versatility of cork. Their initiative collaborates with restaurants and other venues to collect used wine corks, directly contributing to various eco-friendly community projects. The use of cork, being a 100% natural and renewable resource, further highlights the sustainable aspects of this initiative, as it can be harvested without compromising the health of the cork trees.

Conclusion

The partnership between Appassionata Estate and Cork Collective is more than just a business collaboration; it represents a significant step toward creating a sustainable future within the Oregon wine industry. By prioritizing cork recycling initiatives, these organizations are making a meaningful impact on both their community and the environment, all while cultivating a more responsible wine culture in the region.

For more information about Appassionata Estate, visit Appassionata Estate. To learn more about Cork Collective, check out Cork Collective.