Here at Round Pond Estate we’re committed to sustainability year-round, not just on Earth Day. We are rooted in People, Place, and Purpose, as we prioritize environmental responsibility, community engagement, and inclusivity.
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People: Diversity | Equity | Balance At Round Pond Estate, diversity, equity, and balance are integral values. We foster a community that values each person’s unique contributions. From the vineyard workers to the winemakers and gardeners, every team member plays an essential role in creating a sustainable, thriving environment. Our commitment to inclusivity extends beyond its employees. Round Pond Estate values and supports local businesses, farmers, and charities. The estate has an open-door policy, inviting visitors to learn about the winemaking process and sustainability practices.
Place: Nurturing the Environment Our sustainability practices prioritize environmental stewardship. One of the most prominent practices is the use of sheep grazing instead of harmful herbicides to control weeds. The sheep also provide natural fertilizer, contributing to soil enrichment.
Additionally, we use mustard and cover crops to improve soil quality, prevent erosion, and enhance biodiversity. Our extensive gardens and beneficial blooms bring in valuable insects and support our beehives that help pollinate the local flora and fauna. Our renowned culinary gardens help to diversify our agricultural land usage and are thoughtfully and intentionally planted in accordance with the seasons so our culinary team always has access to the most local, seasonal ingredients. The winemaking production areas are designed to reduce energy consumption, with energy-efficient lighting and equipment. We’ve installed a BioFilter wastewater treatment system that employs earthworms to purify the winery wastewater so we can reuse 100% as landscape irrigation water. We also source lightweight glass bottles from North America to minimize its carbon footprint and use 100% post-consumer recycled paper for our wine labels. This change eliminates 65 tons of waste through the 25% reduction in the overall bottle weight.
Purpose: Community | Alzheimer’s Awareness We understand the devastating impact of Alzheimer’s disease as our founder, Bob MacDonnell, lost his battle with Alzheimer’s in 2021, inspiring our commitment to Alzheimer’s awareness and support. Our mission is to honor Bob and all those effected by Alzheimer’s Disease by giving back and making a difference. Since 2021 we have raised $346,988 for organizations dedicated to the fight against Alzheimer’s! Every June we dedicate a percentage of wine sales to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Our Honouren Cabernet Sauvignon, meaning to do honor and show respect for, is a commemorative wine showcasing photos submitted by the Round Pond community of those living with, or lost to, Alzheimer’s on the front label. 50% of the proceeds of each bottle sold are donated to the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation. It is our hope that by showcasing those whom this disease has impacted, we will be able to honor loved ones and remind families that they are not alone. Beginning in 2025, we are pleased to donate a portion of every bottle of Kith & Kin wine sold to support the Alzheimer’s Association. We are always striving to find new ways to help fund the fight against Alzheimer’s – because memories matter.