Podere Casanova: No Harvest

The Winery owners: “As an eco-sustainable and organic company, we couldn’t apply more treatments”

In the context of an exceptionally challenging agricultural year, our decision not to proceed with the 2023 harvest has drawn significant attention. This choice, as highlighted by various media outlets, including “La Nazione” and “Sommelier Suite”, serves as a powerful testament to our commitment to sustainability and the real operational challenges facing the wine industry.

Podere Casanova owners, Susanna Ponzin and Isodoro Rebatto, have taken a stance that significantly diverges from conventional practices. Their decision not to harvest this year was driven by a deep commitment to organic production and environmental sustainability. This was particularly evident in their response to downy mildew, a disease that has affected vineyards across Italy. Rather than increasing chemical treatments, they chose to stay within the limits set for organic farming, accepting the consequences of a reduced production.

This was not an easy decision. As Susanna stated in an interview with “La Nazione”, choosing to halt treatments and focus on preparing the vineyards for the next season was made with full awareness of its implications. While this would have been their first fully organic harvest, they preferred to stay true to their principles rather than compromise their values.

The Podere Casanova situation raises important questions about the cost and value of sustainability in the wine industry. Susanna and Isodoro’s choices will have a tangible economic impact in the coming years, as they will miss out on revenue from the wines that would have been produced. However, as Susanna pointed out, these decisions were deliberate and reflect a broader consideration of the real costs and the support needed for truly sustainable and organic practices.

In summary, Podere Casanova’s case not only illustrates the challenges faced by producers committed to eco-friendly practices, but also sparks broader discussions about the responsibilities and costs associated with producing wines in an environmentally respectful manner. This story, widely discussed in various media outlets, highlights the importance of supporting practices that protect both the environment and consumer health, despite the economic challenges they may entail.