Red-headed individual pursuing biological dynamics
In the picturesque region of Northern Tuscany, nestled in the heart of Riparbella, Pisa, lies the esteemed Caiarossa winery. Known for its commitment to biodiversity and sustainable practices, Caiarossa stands as a beacon of environmental stewardship in the world of winemaking.
Caiarossa is not just following a current trend regarding biodiversity. Instead, the winery's dedication to preserving and promoting local ecosystems is deeply rooted in its operations. One of the ways Caiarossa achieves this is through the implementation of biodynamic farming, treating its vineyard as a self-sustaining ecosystem.
The winery's diverse grape varieties—including red grapes like Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot, and white grape varieties like Chardonnay, Viognier, Vermentino, and Petit Manseng—contribute to the biodiversity within Caiarossa's vineyards. Earthworms, a common sight in the vineyards, indicate the health of the soil, which is preserved through biodynamic practices such as producing compost and using manure.
Autumn cover cropping is another biodiversity practice employed by Caiarossa. By using two or three species of seeds and seven to eight different essences, the winery encourages the growth of a variety of plant life, providing habitats for beneficial insects and other wildlife.
The presence of beneficial insects like hoverflies, ladybugs, and pollinators in Caiarossa's vineyards is a testament to the winery's success in promoting biodiversity. In addition, Caiarossa sows melliferous species to attract bees, further enhancing the local ecosystem.
Caiarossa's vineyards cover 40 hectares, with 6 hectares dedicated to olive groves. The remaining 100 hectares are used for crops, forest, or left fallow to allow for natural regeneration. The winery's biodiversity practices extend beyond its vineyards, with a significant portion (70-80%) of its wine production being sold abroad.
Despite its international reach, Caiarossa remains committed to strengthening biodiversity in its territory. The winery's operations contribute to this goal, with the majority of its red wines made from blends of international varieties and Sangiovese. Approximately 120,000 bottles of wine are produced each year.
For those interested in learning more about Caiarossa's biodiversity practices, visiting the winery's official website or contacting them directly is highly recommended. Wineries often update their sustainability practices, so direct information from the source is always the most accurate.
Caiarossa's commitment to biodiversity extends beyond its vineyards, as it dedicates a significant portion of its 100 hectares to crops, forest, and fallow land for natural regeneration. The winery's practices in health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and nutrition are evident in its biodynamic farming approach, where earthworms and various plant life thrive. This emphasis on environmental-science reflects Caiarossa's continued efforts to promote a diverse and sustainable ecosystem, with over 120,000 bottles of wine produced annually from a blend of international varieties and Sangiovese.
