The Vital List: Drink Responsibly
Friday, October 19, 2007
You hold the food on your plate to a high standard, but what about the stuff in your glass? Most widely-available drinks are not made with organic ingredients or eco-friendly practices, so if you want to take the “boo” out of booze, here’s some ecohol worthy of “cheers.”
1
Through the grapevine
If you enjoy having a glass (or two) of wine with dinner, check out Organic Vintners and the Organic Wine Company for a large selection of wines made with 100% organic grapes, grown without the conventional chemicals that can harm soil, plants, wildlife and even taste. Also look out for vegan and biodynamic wines from around the world.
2
Brewhaha
Made primarily from a cereal grain, it makes sense that you’d want your beer to be as organic as your bread or morning flakes. Many brewers say that organic hops can offer a better and stronger aroma than regular varieties. While brands like Wolaver’s and Butte Creek are currently industry leaders, organic beers are becoming increasingly available, so check your nearest health food store for local varieties.
3
In the spirit
Organic spirits are generally tough to come by domestically, but some US-made vodkas satisfy even the most conscious drinkers. Square One Vodka and Rain Vodka are made from 100% organic ingredients (plus: Rain Vodka is gluten-free) and use recycled materials for their labels and packaging. 360 Vodka, while not organic, is earth-friendly from its energy-efficient production to its super-eco packaging…so go ahead and make yourself a smartini.
4
Get fruity
For those who like their cocktails responsible and their fruits trendy, VeeV, a new drink made from sustainable Amazonian Acai berries, is a wise anti-oxidant-rich choice. Aside from being a celeb favorite, $1 from every bottle sold goes to support environmental causes. If you prefer a fruity DIY drink, Modmix makes organic cocktail mixers—like pomegranate cosmopolitan—to blend with your favorite organic alcohol.
