In this episode, Sid Patel, CEO of Sommeliers Choice Awards and Beverage Trade Network, sits down with Michael Mighetto Hoefling, a seasoned Fine Wine Professional and Advisor, to dive into one of today’s most pressing topics in the beverage industry: sustainability. 

Michael shares insights on how Michelin-star restaurants approach sustainability, highlighting the impact of eco-conscious choices in hospitality. Learn what sustainability means from a buyer’s perspective, discover the top factors that matter most to guests, and see real examples of wines from vineyards championing sustainable practices. 

This conversation offers valuable guidance for anyone interested in making meaningful strides toward sustainability in the wine and hospitality world.

When asked about what sparked his passion for sustainability, Hoefling traced his journey back to the heart of California wine country. “My inspiration really came from the wineries in my own backyard—Napa Valley, Sonoma County, and California as a whole,” he said. “So many of these businesses preach the ethos of responsible farming, and seeing them make positive changes made me want to do the same.” Watching local vineyards take a proactive approach to protecting the environment ignited his dedication to sustainability, an ethos he now champions through his role with the Sommeliers Choice Awards.

The Sommeliers Choice Awards: Recognizing Wines with Purpose

The Sommeliers Choice Awards (SCA) are not your typical wine competition. While the primary focus is on taste, SCA has become a platform for celebrating wines that also embody environmental responsibility. Hoefling explained that, as Sustainability Ambassador, he’s proud to help bring awareness to sustainable wines. “SCA isn’t about following trends—it’s about connecting wineries and beverage businesses with buyers who are looking for more than just a label,” he said.

While taste remains the first criterion for selection, sustainable practices add an extra layer of appeal. “When sommeliers and buyers learn that a wine is not only delicious but also produced with care for the environment, it can make a big difference,” Hoefling shared. He emphasized that, for small wineries especially, this recognition can provide a valuable marketing boost, helping them gain attention in a crowded market.

Why Sustainability Matters for Wine Brands in Today’s Market

Hoefling is firm in his belief that sustainability is more than a trend; it’s essential for the industry’s future. “Honestly, it’s just the right thing to do,” he noted. For him, the real value in sustainable wine production lies in creating a wine with purpose, a wine that reflects its place and the care of those who produce it.

In his role with the Sommeliers Choice Awards, Michael Hoefling advocates for a wine industry that values both quality and environmental responsibility. As consumer interest in sustainable products grows, wineries that adopt eco-friendly practices are likely to build stronger connections with their audience, boost their brand reputation, and foster long-term loyalty. Through his work with the SCA, Hoefling continues to inspire the wine world to see sustainability not just as a practice but as an integral part of a wine’s story—one that honors both the earth and the people who enjoy its fruits.

Also Read:
Why Buyers Choose Sustainable Wines: Insights from Michael Hoefling on Growing Demand
Insights From Top Sommelier Thomas Brenner On How To Grow Your Restaurant Sales
How To Market Your Wines Once You Have A Sommeliers Choice Award Medal