In the rolling vineyards of Chile, where the Andes kiss the sky and ocean breezes whisper through the vines, a winery stands out, not just for the quality of its wines, but for the values it lives by. Emiliana Winery is not only one of the largest organic and biodynamic wine producers in the world; it is a powerful symbol of how modern agriculture and traditional ecological wisdom can coexist to create something truly exceptional.
At Hattersley Wines, we believe wine is more than just what’s in the bottle. It’s about where it comes from, how it's made, and the impact it leaves on the world. That’s why we proudly stock and support Emiliana, because their commitment to sustainability, community, and craftsmanship mirrors our own values. We sent Sarah to visit Chile in 2019 and she is still in awe of the lengths they go to give back, to not only the land, but the people too, all whilst crafting exceptional wines.
A Pioneer in Organic and Biodynamic Winemaking
Emiliana began its journey toward sustainability in the late 1990s, long before organic was a buzzword in the industry. While other producers focused purely on yield and market share, Emiliana's founders chose a different path: one rooted in the idea that healthy soils, cared-for ecosystems, and empowered workers result in better wines.
The winery now farms over 1,000 hectares of vineyards organically and biodynamically, making it one of the largest certified organic wineries in South America, and the world. This is no small feat in an industry still heavily reliant on chemical inputs. Emiliana’s commitment goes far beyond just eliminating pesticides and herbicides. They employ a full-circle philosophy that includes composting, biodiversity corridors, renewable energy usage, and holistic vineyard management.
Their biodynamic practices follow the agricultural principles laid out by Rudolf Steiner, focusing on cosmic rhythms and natural preparations to enhance soil fertility and vine health. It’s farming as nature intended, without shortcuts or synthetic interference.
The Wines: A True Expression of Place and Purpose
It’s not enough for a winery to be sustainable. The wines must speak for themselves, and Emiliana’s do. The estate produces a wide range of wines, from approachable everyday bottles to extraordinary wines worthy of the finest cellars, all while staying true to their values. Each bottle tells a story, not just of the grape and the vintage, but of a philosophy rooted in care: for the land, the people, and the future.
A Holistic Approach: From Soil to Society
Sustainability at Emiliana isn’t just about the environment. It’s also deeply human. The winery has long invested in the wellbeing of its workers and the surrounding communities. They provide educational programs, support social initiatives, and promote a culture of respect and collaboration among staff. One example is their biodynamic garden, which is tended to by winery staff and used to grow medicinal herbs, vegetables, and flowers. This not only supports the health of the vineyard but also creates a sense of ownership and pride among employees. They’ve also implemented social programs like micro-entrepreneurship for workers’ families and solar energy projects to reduce emissions. It’s a full-circle model where everyone, from the vine to the vinekeeper, is nurtured and valued.
Why We Align With Emiliana
As a business, we don’t just sell bottles, we tell stories, we support makers, and we take a stand for what matters. When we choose producers to work with, we look for more than just great wines, we seek partners who reflect our core values: environmental stewardship, ethical business, and authentic craftsmanship. Emiliana embodies all of this and more. Their wines are not just delicious, they’re also clean, traceable, and responsibly made. When our customers buy a bottle of Emiliana, they’re not only getting a taste of Chilean terroir, they’re participating in a larger movement toward a more sustainable and compassionate wine industry.
We also believe that supporting wineries like Emiliana sends a message: that the future of wine lies not in mass production and chemicals, but in thoughtful cultivation and ecological harmony. It's a philosophy we carry through in our own business practices, from reducing waste in packaging to working with suppliers who prioritise ethics and transparency.
The Growing Importance of Sustainable Wine
Consumer awareness is evolving. More and more, people are asking where their wine comes from, how it was made, and what it stands for. Sustainability is no longer a niche concern, it’s a global imperative, and as stewards of this industry, we believe it’s our role to champion producers who are leading the charge. Emiliana isn’t just keeping up with this shift, they’re ahead of it. Their wines prove that excellence doesn’t have to come at the cost of the environment or the people behind the bottle. They show that sustainability and quality can, and should, go hand in hand.
In Every Glass, a Shared Vision
When you pour a glass of Emiliana wine, you’re experiencing more than flavour, you’re tasting the result of years of dedication to doing things differently. At Hattersley Wines, we’re proud to align ourselves with a winery that values life, land, and legacy as much as we do.
Because in the end, wine is about connection. To the earth. To the makers. And to each other!
