Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1025306
september 2018 / the tasting panel / 81 september 2018 / the tasting panel / 81 S ince the New Zealand government enacted the Resource Management Act in 1991—one of the first international efforts to introduce legislation focused on sustainability—the country has emerged as a world leader in the fight against climate change. It's a philosophy reflected by the private sector, as well: Yealands Estate, the Marlborough winery established by Peter Yealands on the auspicious day of August 8, 2008, has joined its home country in promoting eco-friendly initiatives while producing award-winning and distinctive wines. With a vision of becoming the world's most sustainable wine producer, Yealands Estate centers its identity around its unique coastal location, rolling vineyards, and love of the land. With the latter serving as its guiding principle, the company's environmentally friendly practices are at the forefront of everything it does. Yealands Estate's Seaview Vineyard is located on the coast of the Awatere Valley, the southernmost area of New Zealand's famed Marlborough region. And while a portion of its vineyards are occupied by Marlborough's most famous "Lawnmowers you can pat": Yealands uses Babydoll sheep to help control grass levels in its vineyards. The animals' small stature prevents them from eating grapes off the vines. Yealands generates enough solar power from its rooftop panels to power 86 households. Solar panels on Yealands' roof generate 30 percent of its electricity needs.