The modern chassettes have been focusing to achieve sustainability. Winemakers have realized that in order to have healthy vineyards and to produce quality wines, the natural environment must be preserved. This has seen several estates implement practices that are less damaging to the environment and which encourage the sustainable productivity of vineyards.
Another major transformation that has been experienced in the field of the estate viticulture is the implementation of organic farming practices. Organic farms do not use synthetic pesticides and fertilizers; they resort to more natural ones, e.g. compost, useful insects, crop rotation. The practices enhance the health of the soil and promote biodiversity in the vineyard ecosystem.
Another practice that has been adopted in the estate wineries is biodynamic agriculture. In this approach, the vineyard is considered as an ecosystem with soil, plants and wildlife living together in a balanced manner. The growers of biodynamic tend to use the cycle of seasons and natural preparations aimed at building the healthiness and hardiness of vines.
Another good practice of sustainable vineyard management is water conservation. Most of the estates have effective irrigation systems and rainwater collection in order to reduce water consumption. Such measures will make sure that the vineyards will be productive even in those areas where the amount of water available is scarce.
Energy efficiency is also a factor of operations in the modern estates. The production of wine minimizes the carbon footprint due to the use of solar panels, energy efficient equipment and environmentally friendly packaging. By investing in renewable energy, estates will show their care towards responsible practices.
Sustainability activities are not just limited to the management of the vineyards but community involvement is also part of it. Most of the estates partner with local farmers, environmental bodies and research centers in order to develop ecological awareness and sustainable farming.