Celebrate Earth Day with Sustainable Beverages

Earth Day is an important day to remind ourselves about our impact on the environment and how we can make a difference in our daily lives. One way we can contribute to a more sustainable future is by making and consuming beverages that are better for the environment. In this blog we will look at two of the steps we take to reduce our environmental impact that are important to us.   

Piquette + Ciderkin Making

Earth Day Flight Features: 

“Question the Convention” ~ grape and apple pommace

“Piquette Rouge” ~ Grape pommace

Let’s explore the benefits of making piquette and ciderkin, two delicious and eco-friendly drinks.

Piquette is a light, refreshing wine made from the leftover grape skins and stems after the juice has been extracted for traditional wine. This means that piquette is a byproduct of the wine-making process and is therefore a sustainable option for winemakers. Rather than discarding the leftover grape parts, they can be used to make another beverage, reducing waste and increasing efficiency.

Making piquette also requires less water and energy than making traditional wine. According to an article published in Wine Enthusiast, “Piquette uses a fraction of the water required to make conventional wine, and its production process emits fewer greenhouse gases.” This means that choosing piquette over traditional wine can significantly reduce our carbon footprint.

Another eco-friendly beverage option is ciderkin, a low-alcohol cider made from the leftover apple pomace after the juice has been extracted for traditional cider. Like piquette, ciderkin is a byproduct of the cider-making process and is therefore a sustainable option for cider makers.

Ciderkin is a great choice for those who want to reduce their alcohol consumption or are looking for a lighter, more refreshing beverage. It also has a lower carbon footprint than traditional cider because it requires less energy and water to produce.

Cultivating No-Spray Orchards

Earth Day Flight Features: 

“Farmers Orchard Pet Nat” ~ The Farmers Orchard ~ Candler, NC,  practicing organic farm

“From the Heart” ~ Green Heart Farm ~ Mars Hill, NC, regenerative agriculture farm

Apples are a staple in many households, and for good reason. Not only are they delicious and versatile, but they also offer a host of health benefits. However, not all apples are created equal. Apples that come from conventional orchards are often sprayed with pesticides and other harmful chemicals, which can have a negative impact on the environment and our health. Fortunately, there is a better way to enjoy apples: by choosing apples from never-sprayed orchards.

Never-sprayed orchards are exactly what they sound like: orchards that have never been treated with synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. These orchards are often small, family-run operations that prioritize sustainability and environmental stewardship. By choosing apples from these orchards, you can feel good about the impact you are making on the planet and your health.

One of the biggest benefits of choosing apples from never-sprayed orchards is that it reduces the amount of harmful chemicals that end up in the environment. When conventional orchards are sprayed with pesticides and herbicides, these chemicals can leach into the soil and water, contaminating the surrounding ecosystem. This can have devastating effects on local wildlife, including bees, birds, and other pollinators that play a critical role in our food system. By supporting never-sprayed orchards, you are helping to preserve these important species and protect the environment.

In addition to reducing the use of harmful chemicals, choosing apples from never-sprayed orchards also supports sustainable agriculture. These orchards often use organic and regenerative farming practices, which prioritize soil health and biodiversity. By choosing apples from these orchards, you are supporting farmers who are working to build healthy, resilient ecosystems that can withstand the effects of climate change.

Another benefit of choosing apples from never-sprayed orchards is that it can have a positive impact on your health. Synthetic pesticides and herbicides have been linked to a range of health issues, including cancer, reproductive problems, and developmental delays. By choosing apples that have not been treated with these chemicals, you are reducing your exposure to these harmful substances and promoting a healthier lifestyle.

In conclusion, choosing apples from never-sprayed orchards is a simple but powerful way to make a positive impact on the environment and your health. By reducing the use of harmful chemicals, supporting sustainable agriculture, and promoting a healthier lifestyle, you can feel good about the impact you are making on the planet. So next time you reach for an apple, consider choosing one from a never-sprayed orchard – your body and the earth will thank you.