De Bortoli launches new range to support tree planting project

Australian producer De Bortoli has launched a new wine range which will see it contribute to planting trees and help support reforestation of the Australian bush.

The new range is called ’17 Trees’ and De Bortoli has said it will plant one tree for every six bottles sold, in partnership with ‘Trillion Trees’ a not-for-profit organisation helping restore the forest and bushland lost in the 2019-2020 bushfires.

As much as 11 million hectares of land across Australia was affected by the fires and there are numerous efforts in place to help replace what has been lost.

The packaging for 17 Trees has also been chosen to be as environmentally friendly as possible, using lightweight bottles made from recycled glass and with labels printed on recycled paper made from natural fibre-based pulp derived from sugar cane waste.

The project follows on from a similar initiative back in 2008 when De Bortoli planted 17 trees for each of the vehicles in its fleet to offset their carbon footprint.

The winery is also in the process of converting its vineyards to organic practices as well as utilising more sustainable methods.

Darren De Bortoli, managing director of De Bortoli Wines, said: “Sustainability is at the core of the De Bortoli Wines’ drive for innovation, and we’re widely recognised and commended for our endeavours to become a Zero Waste Wine Company.

“Through initiatives including wise water management, energy efficiency and improved waste management over the past 15 years we’re demonstrating our commitment to a future where great wine and a healthy environment can be enjoyed by everyone.”

Distributed by North South Wines, the new range is comprised of a Shiraz, Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio with an RRP of £9 a bottle.