Banrock Station wines have a strong environmental commitment.

Having restored the severely degraded land they acquired for the vineyards – fifteen years on they are proud to boast that they are a model for sustainability.

The centre uses as little energy as possible having been designed to keep cool in the summer, and insulated to retain heat in the winter. Solar panels draw energy from the grid making sure all their power needs are met.

As of 2009, Banrock Station are using lighter-weight glass bottles, ships it’s wines in bulk and bottles the wine on arrival in the UK. This reduces CO2 emissions by 164g per 75cl bottle.

Over the last ten years 95 environmental projects around the world have been funded by over £2.3 million from sales of Banrock Station wine.

And as for the wine - I have long been a fan of this variety of white wine, but I feel more comfortable drinking it now that I am aware of their commitment to playing an active role in the environmental challenges the World faces.

Banrock Station Colombard Chardonay 2008 – We found this to be a light refreshing wine with an interesting palate, very drinkable, delicious in fact.

Banrock Station Shiraz Mataro 2008– This was a first for me, but it will not be the last time I drink this one. I tend to prefer red wine and this does not disappoint. A fruity taste with plenty of body, excellent served with Italian and French food.

Both varieties are available in most major supermarkets