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Alileo Achieves B Corp Certification: Pioneering Sustainable Wine Production

In a significant milestone, Alileo, the Sicilian boxed wine brand, has announced that it has officially received B Corporation™ certification from B Lab™, a non-profit organization that evaluates corporate social and environmental performance. This achievement positions Alileo among an elite group of approximately 100 wineries globally recognized for their commitment to economic systems change that promotes equity, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Co-founded by Antonio Bertone and Alexandra Drane, Alileo was born out of a deep respect for Sicilian heritage and a desire to uplift the local economy in Sicily. The couple started the brand in 2020, setting out to create a business that would maintain a balance between profitability and social responsibility. Antonio Bertone emphasized, “Our commitment to our environment, community, and team has always been at the forefront of every decision.” This sentiment reflects the core values that guide Alileo's operations.

B Corp Certification is awarded to companies that meet stringent social and environmental accountability standards, requiring them to score a minimum of 80 points in the B Impact Assessment. This assessment considers various criteria, including the company’s impact on workers, customers, community, and the environment. The certification also mandates a shift in corporate governance to prioritize all stakeholders, not just shareholders, ensuring transparency in operations.

Max Hayes, Community Growth Manager at B Lab, expressed enthusiasm about Alileo’s inclusion in the movement towards a more equitable economy. “We’re happy to have Alileo join the movement and positively contribute to the collective efforts to shift our global economy,” he stated, highlighting the collaborative spirit behind the B Corp community.

Not only is Alileo committed to social equity, but it also champions sustainability through innovative production methods. The choice of the bag-in-box format for its wine is pivotal, as it not only reduces the weight for transportation—thereby lowering carbon emissions—but also minimizes waste compared to traditional glass bottles. Alileo adheres to strict vinification practices that include organic farming, manual grape selection, and spontaneous fermentation without additives, resulting in wine that is natural and unfiltered.

Alileo’s wines, crafted from unique varietals native to the West Coast of Sicily, are already garnering recognition. The brand was awarded three medals at the prestigious Decanter World Wine Awards 2023, securing silver for its Syrah and bronze for both its Young Grillo and Rosato Bronzato. These accolades affirm Alileo’s place in the competitive wine market and its capability to produce high-quality, sustainable wine.

Currently, Alileo's wines are available for shipping to 41 states through their website, www.alileowines.com, and can also be found at select fine wine retailers in key regions including Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, and Texas.

Alileo’s certification as a B Corp not only enhances its credibility but also serves as an inspiration for other brands in the beverage industry. As environmental concerns and social justice continue to rise in consumer consciousness, Alileo stands out as a forward-thinking entity committed to making a positive impact. With aspirations to increase their social and environmental contributions further, Alileo is poised for growth while adhering to its foundational principles of sustainability and community upliftment.

In conclusion, Alileo is not just about producing remarkable Sicilian wines; it’s about leading a movement that encourages responsible business practices and advocates for a sustainable future in the wine industry. As consumers become increasingly aware of the brands they support, Alileo’s B Corp certification enables them to make informed choices, contributing to a more equitable and regenerative economy for all.