For full utilization of what the vine generously provides, spent pomace, that is, depleted of its alcoholic and aromatic potential, is dried to separate the grape skins from the grape seeds. The former, rich in cellulose, are used by the distillery itself as an energy source to produce the steam needed to power the distillation process. The latter, on the other hand, are used in the oil industry to produce one of the most dietary edible oils in existence and appreciated by gourmets.
The entire thermal energy requirement to obtain the steam needed for distillation is met through the use of grape husks that are dried after distillation. A by-product of the main production process is thus used as an energy source, avoiding the need to fuel the boiler using fossil fuels (nonrenewable resources). The fumes resulting from boiler combustion and pomace drying are treated in a technologically advanced plant that makes it possible to minimize atmospheric emissions in full compliance with the very restrictive limits imposed by the competent public authority.
Much of the distillery’s electricity needs are met by the treatment cycle of liquid distillation residues, which, once subjected to anaerobic digestion, generate biogas that, by powering a special green motor, is transformed into electricity destined to power the company’s facilities, as an alternative to electricity from the national grid, which is known to be largely derived from fossil fuels. Anaerobic treatment and subsequent aerobic treatment of liquid residues, concentration and drying of them improves their environmental compatibility by achieving almost complete abatement of their initial organic load.
At the production unit in Mestrino, where distillate packaging and distribution activities are carried out, the installation of two photovoltaic systems for the production of electricity (from renewable sources) ensure the company’s almost total energy autonomy.
