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VSPT supports Mapuche families to become independent growers
VSPT Wine Group is extending its support for Mapuche families through government co-finance, with a view to long-term sustainability.
A government grant through the Chilean Economic Development and Production Corporation (Cofro) is furthering VSPT Wine Group’s work with indigenous Mapuche communities in Malleco, in the Araucanía Region. The project, running since 2015 has resulted in Chile’s first Pinot noir made by the Mapuche community, Tayu 1865. The new government funding will support it for another three years.
Over this period, VSPT intends to offer full independence for the 11 Mapuche families that produce grapes for the wine. As autonomous owners of their 27.5 hectares of vineyards, VSPT Wine Group and Corfo’s co-financing will move them to a sustainable supply model.
As part of the programme, VSPT Wine Group will offer knowledge and materials to the families, giving them support to thrive independently and sustainably by the close of the project.
On one side, this means tools and technical advice to support high standards of viticulture. VSPT will use its considerable experience to pass on principles of vineyard management, pest control and machinery implementation. The programme will be led by VSPT Wine Group’s environmental sustainability targets.
There will also be a focus on financial sustainability. A selection of modules in the scheme will address inventory control, budget management, health and safety, while it will also support growers to draw up business management and administration plans. The support scheme is designed to provide long-term security for its participants.
Sustainability supporting communities
VSPT Wine Group is a significant and longstanding player in the Chilean wine industry. It is one of the world’s top 20 wine producers, and traces its roots back to 1865 (hence the name of the Tayu 1865 Pinot Noir) when the San Pedro winery was founded.
In recent years, it has placed particular emphasis on sustainability. Earlier this year, VSPT Wine Group revealed a new sustainability model, which delineated its goals in both environmental and social sustainability. Part of its sustainability blueprint is engaging with its local communities, of which indigenous communities are specifically highlighted.
The Mapuche are the largest indigenous population in Chile, totalling around 1.3 million people. There is evidence of Mapuche culture in Chile that dates back to 500BC, with Araucanía, in which the scheme operates, the historic heartland of the Mapuche people.
However, according to the Minority Rights Group International NGO, they still face significant issues, still campaigning for better representation and collective land rights. The NGO also identifies Araucanía as Chile’s poorest region. VSPT Wine Group has therefore focused its efforts on supporting the historically marginalised group.
“The training and technical support aims to empower producers in Malleco, transforming them into independent entrepreneurs with strengthened management skills,” comments Carolina Gotuzzo, VSPT Wine Group corporate affairs and sustainability director.
“Through these types of programmes, we reaffirm our commitment to sustainable development and the creation of shared value, working together with local communities to generate a positive and lasting impact in the Araucanía region.”
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