World’s 2nd largest winery gives back

CEBU CITY, PHILIPPINES (May 28, 2015) — The understanding that proper stewardship of the environment is the foundation for all great vineyards inspired the Gallo family to create “50/50 Give Back Plan.”

In a Winery Tour event here today, it was learned that Ernest and Julio Gallo of Gallo Winery decided that for every acre of vineyard they developed, at least one acre would be left in natural habitat.

In Sonoma County in the US, 50 percent of Gallo’s acreage which is managed as undisturbed natural environment, consist of greenbelts, watersheds and wildlife habitats.

These lands provide beauty, natural water sources and homes for deer, coyotes, raccoons, squirrels, raptors, water fowl and other birds.

Further, it was learned, that lakes and reservoirs also have been created or maintained which deliver irrigation benefits while providing a habitat for geese, bass and other fish.

E & J Gallo Winery is acclaimed second largest winery in the world in terms of volume and by itself, Gallo International would be the 11^th largest, selling millions of cases of wines in 93 countries: from table wines to sparkling wines.

Headquarted in Modesto, California, Gallo Winery reaches out to the Philippine market through Emperador Distillers.

Its products include Gallo Family Varietals for economy wines; Barefoot, Canyon Road, and Turning Leaf for popular wines; and Starborough Sauvignon Blanc and Red Rock Merlot for premium wines.

In a wine tasting event, this writer gives two thumbs-up to White Zinfandel of the Gallo Family Varietals. This combines crisp refreshment with bright fruit. I got a sip of fresh strawberry with hints of sweet, white peach. Alcohol content is 8.5 percent.

For its kicking strength, Starborough is a delight. It delivers hints of honeydew melon, passion fruit and peach over a refreshing citrus background. It has a lively acidity that characterizes Marlborough wines. It features a crisp, approachable wine style that epitomizes the character of New Zealand itself. Alcohol content is 13 percent per 750 ml.###