Sustainability Statement

Furleigh Estate is continually working to reduce our carbon footprint. We have implemented energy-efficient technologies in our winery and have implemented renewable energy options to power our operations. We also work to reduce waste and increase recycling efforts across our estate.

Actions taken: We have invested substantially to make the winery 100% powered by electricity.  Our solar panels currently generate over 100% of the power we use.

Actions taken: In wine production, it is estimated that around 40% of the overall GHG (Green House Gas) production is the manufacture and transport of bottles.  Bottle weight is the dominant factor in this.  In the UK the average still wine bottle weight is 550g and there is a UK-wide campaign to reduce the average to 420g or below.  At Furleigh Estate our still wine bottles weigh just 395g.

We employ environmentally friendly farming techniques that prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation. By reducing chemical inputs and using natural pest management, we maintain a thriving ecosystem within our vineyards. Our commitment to minimal intervention ensures that our vines can express the unique terroir of our land while preserving the natural balance of the environment.

Actions taken:  We protect the soil from erosion with ground cover between the vines.  We regularly replenish nutrients.  We do not use herbicides or insecticides.  We have invested in mechanical cultivators to remove the use of herbicides.  All waste plant material is returned to the soil

Actions taken:  Vineyards are a source of greenhouse gas (GHG) sequestration.  This absorption exceeds the GHG emissions from tractor activity in the vineyard.  By growing our own grapes Furleigh Estate reduces its overall GHG emissions.  In addition, our winery is adjacent to our vineyards so grapes do not need to be transported from elsewhere to Furleigh Estate.

We understand the importance of biodiversity and the role it plays in a healthy vineyard ecosystem.  Our estate includes areas dedicated to wildflower meadows, hedgerows, and woodland, which provide habitats for a variety of wildlife. These areas are managed to encourage biodiversity and create a balanced environment that benefits both our vines and the local ecosystem.  Our Instagram account captures pictures of some of the many wildlife species that share our land at Furleigh.

Actions taken: As our family first moved to Furleigh over 75 years ago, we understand what has happened to the land over an extended period.  Areas which we know have not been cultivated at all in all that time (ie no ploughing or fertilizer of any sort) have been left to remain in their natural state.  This land, which runs to several acres alongside he vineyard, has not been “rewilded”, it has always been “wild” and continues to be so under our stewardship

Furleigh Estate is more than just a vineyard; it is a part of the local community. We are committed to supporting local initiatives, providing employment opportunities, and engaging with our community in meaningful ways. We believe in fostering a culture of sustainability that extends beyond our estate and into the broader community.

Actions taken:  All our permanent staff live locally.  In addition, we support local charities nominated by our staff.  In 2024 this is the RNLI to which we donate a portion of the profit from every sale of our Sea Pink rosé wine.

Continuous Improvement

Sustainability is a journey, not a destination. We are continually assessing our practices and seeking new ways to improve our environmental performance. Through innovation, education, and collaboration, we strive to lead by example and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Future actions:  As at mid-2024 the Furleigh Estate carbon footprint is around zero (as measured by the WineGB carbon calculator).  By 2030 we intend to have a carbon footprint of minus 10%.

At Furleigh Estate, sustainability is part of everything we do. We are proud to produce wines that not only reflect the beauty and character of our land but also respect and protect it for generations to come.