In the Napa Valley, California, a winemaker has created sunglasses made from old barrel wood

California is the fourth largest wine producing region in the world with 27 million hectolitres produced in 2011, making up for 10.1% of the global production (Source: SuddeFrance). Such a large production requires around 500 million barrels. Winemaker Robert Mondavi, from Oakville in the Napa Valley, has begun to recycle his barrels in an original way. Rather than destroying them, they are cleaned, purified and dismantled to create frames for glasses. These glasses are created in partnership with the Californian designer Woodzee, who is known for his wooden sunglasses. The designs are available in four glass colours: bronze, grey, blue and turquoise. Available via the designer’s website, a pair cost $120. The Sierra collection is visible on the manufacturer’s website. Bamboo, rosewood, oak, walnut: the wood used for barrels adds to the range of wood already used. As well as being light and comfortable, the recycled nature of these glasses is a key point of this initiative. Wood is becoming a scarce resource which is becoming more and more protected by quotes and sustainable management.

The winemaker has an excellent reputation which can be seen on TripAdvisor (4.5 out of 5 from nearly 500 reviews), with a certificate of excellence in 2014. Specialist optical and wine websites have praised the creation of this product. An article has been published on Woodzee’s Facebook page, which has more than 23,000 fans and as many potential clients for the Mondavi collection. Pictures of the glasses are also available online via Mondavi’s Instagram account.

Practical information: Robert Mondavi Winery in Oakville, California, http://www.woodzee.com/collection.html