SUSTAINABILITY

Decisions made during the design and building process can make a significant difference in the long-term health of our environment. FIRST PRESS WINERY incorporates sustainable design and construction principles, material selections and system designs to utilize resources in the most responsible way possible.

 

Both conservation and potential energy producing activities have been taken into consideration. The building form and efficient footprint allow the structure to be sited for maximum solar exposure and minimum impact on the natural topography and vegetation. Appropriate quantities of natural light and ventilation are provided to interior work areas, creating healthier work environments. Building materials are chosen for high durability, cost-effectiveness and low embodied-energy characteristics, ensuring that the overall carbon footprint is minimized. Highlighted sustainable measures include:

 

NIGHT COOLING

Primarily designed to exhaust CO2 generated during the fermentation process, the ventilation system can also be run in "reverse". This means the exhaust system can be utilized for night cooling – a highly effective operational technique used during "shoulder" months in many regions to reduce the overall heat load on building interiors.

 

DAY LIGHTING

All models are designed with ridge skylights or optional rooftop monitors to introduce natural daylight into the main interior fermentation area.

 

RECYCLED BUILDING MATERIALS

Utilizing prefabricated metal building components, the main structural elements, exterior wall and roof panel all incorporate steel components with approximately 80% recycled material content. Pre-finished roof and wall panels include a washable interior surface.

 

WATER CONSERVATION / COLLECTION

On-site rainwater collection, storage and reuse, as well as gray-water reuse are a few of the water conservation / collection options that can be incorporated during customization of your project.

 

SOLAR

Photovoltaic panels and / or solar hot water panels - including control systems - are anticipated in the engineering of electrical and plumbing components. You can choose to build your winery with these or other energy generating / conversion technology features or add them at a future date.