In the lush landscapes of Marlborough's Awatere Valley, a remarkable story of passion, sustainability, and innovation unfolds through the work of Erika Crawford, co-founder of Loveblock Wine. Erika’s journey as a woman in the wine industry is inspiring – a testament to the profound impact of commitment to organic farming and sustainable practices.
The Loveblock Wine Story
At the heart of Erika’s achievements is Loveblock, a brand born from a desire to cultivate wines that embody the essence of their terroir. The inception of Loveblock marked a pivotal moment in Erika's career. After years in the wine industry and co-founding Kim Crawford Wines – now a powerhouse brand in the U.S. and Canada – she turned her focus to organic farming. In 2008, Erika and her partner made the bold decision to convert their vineyards to organic practices, gaining BioGro NZ certification in 2012.
Erika’s vision for Loveblock extends beyond just producing wine; it is about nurturing the land and creating an ecosystem that allows the grapes to flourish without the use of chemical herbicides or fertilizers. This dedication to environmental stewardship has transformed Loveblock into a model for sustainability in the wine industry.
“With organic wine, it’s what you DON’T put in that matters: no chemical pesticides or herbicides, less winery inputs and a lot of blood, sweat and love”
Erica Crawford
A Commitment to Sustainability
Erika's sustainable practices at Loveblock are comprehensive and innovative. From planting trees and hemp to enhance biodiversity to employing cover crops for soil regeneration, every decision is rooted in a philosophy of "treading lightly." The winery also harnesses solar energy, rehabilitates wetlands, and utilizes lighter glass bottles to reduce their carbon footprint.
One of the most exciting developments at Loveblock is the introduction of alternate fermentation vessels, including concrete eggs and amphorae, which add unique textures and flavours to the wines. Moreover, Erika has pioneered the use of green tea tannin extract in her Loveblock TEE Sauvignon Blanc, marking it one of the few wines in the world with zero added sulphur or sulphites.
Erika’s commitment to crafting vegan-friendly wines, inspired by her daughter Pia, further underscores her dedication to ethical practices in winemaking.
Recognition and Influence
Erika’s contributions to the wine industry have not gone unnoticed. In 2016, she was inducted into the Business Hall of Fame for Women Entrepreneurs, recognizing her impact as a leader and innovator. As a member of the Advisory Board of the NZ US Council, she continues to influence the industry on a broader scale.
In addition to her business achievements, Erika is deeply invested in mentorship. She actively supports and guides young women aspiring to enter the wine and business sectors, fostering a new generation of female leaders in an industry traditionally dominated by men.
A Legacy of Love and Community
At Loveblock, the ethos of community is as important as the wine itself. Erika and her team prioritize sharing the bounty of the land, ensuring that everyone involved in the farming and production process benefits from their hard work. The farm not only produces exceptional wines but also sustains the community, feeding those who contribute to its success.
Erika Crawford's journey is a shining example of how one woman's vision can transform an industry. Through her unwavering commitment to organic practices and sustainability, she has created a successful wine brand and cultivated a legacy of environmental consciousness and community spirit.
Today, we celebrate the exceptional quality of the Loveblock wines and the profound values that Erika – a true pioneer in the world of wine – embodies.