UK: Vintage Roots – Green Retailer of the Year

Vintage Roots is the only UK company to have been importing and retailing exclusively a list of organic wines and drinks, since Neil Palmer and Lance Pigott set up the business in 1986. This is why they started and it is what keeps them motivated to this day. They continue innovating and running an ethical, sustainable business, leading by example. And although the award Green Retailer of the Year is nominally for the last 12 months, they see it as recognition of their near 30 year commitment to green principles.

All products are certified organic, they come with that message. Strong focus is on selecting for quality, with all wines being tasted multiple times. Besides listing great organic wines, the company is also innovating in their field, developing and maintaining some strong own brand wines. Their organic range was launched in 1998. The range of Wild Thing organic wines has recently been expanded and goes from strength to strength thanks to loyal support from their customers. A donation is made from every bottle sold to The Born Free Foundation to directly benefit conservation and animal welfare, with well over £10,000 being raised so far. Since 2005, the company has been powered by Good Energy and has been working with the carbon management company Carbon Clear since 2006. Detailed information is provided – on organic and biodynamic naturally, but also on sulphur and no added sulphur in wine, as well as on the claims vegan, vegetarian and fair trade. More information is available here.