Perhaps you’ve noticed that our Chardonnay bottle looks a little darker in the past few years. If so, you’re right. We recently changed the color of the glass. So why the switch? Sustainability.

We are always looking at ways to reduce our carbon footprint. Darker glass contains more recycled content (also known as “cullet”), which means fewer raw materials and less energy are needed to produce it. Choosing a darker shade allows us to support the recycling stream and reduce our environmental impact. It is a bit harder to see the wine inside, but it’s still the same Chardonnay! One that some patrons have enjoyed since 1982.
For many years, we have purchased bottles made in the United States. Sourcing American-made glass reduces transportation emissions and supports domestic manufacturing, something we’re proud to continue. It typically costs more, but we chose to do that because it’s the right thing to do.

We are also looking at options to move towards lighter weight bottles. Reducing the glass in each bottle cuts down on the energy and raw materials required to produce and transport them. Lighter bottles mean less fuel is needed during shipping, especially since we sell almost all our wine direct to people at home. This would lower our carbon footprint. However, we will balance a lighter weight bottle with strong durability that can withstand transportation, so stay tuned!

Anytime we make adjustments to packaging, the changes can take years before you might notice them due to extended bottle aging before the wine is released.

We love hearing from patrons about how they repurpose our packaging. Here are some fun and clever things patrons have done over the year. Patrons can join our cork and capsule recycling program by sending us tin capsules and natural or technical corks. Learn more here. All our shipping materials are recyclable (or reusable!). Any time there are “peanuts” in boxes, they are potato based and can be put in the compost.
And since we ship all our wine direct to people at home, we know that has a significant carbon footprint, so seven years ago, we decided to purchase carbon offsets at no cost to patrons. That way all packages are shipped carbon neutral. Learn more here.

At Hafner Vineyard, we believe in never resting on our laurels and always continuing to reduce our impact on the planet.  Sometimes that means significant investments like a solar array or an electric tractor. And sometimes it’s as simple as a darker glass bottle that carries the same Chardonnay, just with a little more recycled content inside.