Greenest Wineries In The World

There's a Latin saying that goes, "It is well to remember that there are five reasons for drinking: the arrival of a friend; one's present or future thirst; the excellence of the wine; or any other reason." My "any other reason" to drink wine? If it's local, organic or made at an ecologically sensitive winery. There's nothing better than taking a sweet swig knowing that the vino was brewed with eco-love by winemakers who give a damn. Come circle the globe as we take a peek at the five greenest wineries in the world.

Stratus Winery, Niagara, Ontario Canada: First LEED-Certified Winery in North America
As TreeHugger contributor Lloyd Alter so candidly points out, TreeHugger likes LEED-certified wineries, but we love LEED certified wineries that are easy on the eye. With handsome appeal, Stratus makes history as the first LEED certified winery in North America. Situated in Niagara, Ontario, architect Les Andrew outfitted the building with geothermal heating and cooling, recycled materials, compost, staff bike lockers and a company Prius. The winemaking itself is also au natural, using gravity to process the grapes and wine, instead of energy-sucking conveyer belts. Though the vino isn't certified organic, the grapes are cultivated without the use of herbicides or fertilizers. Try their unique and sweet Icewine Red, which hints of guava, strawberry rhubarb pie, plums and spice. Need I say more?

Read the whole story here.