biodynamic wines

In a time of drastic climate change, global warming, and all-around meteorological chaos, we all seek to be a little bit “greener.” We buy organic produce, shop with reusable tote bags, and recycle just a bit more than we used to. With sustainability and natural movements front and center in our minds, these conscientious practices are becoming more prevalent in the agricultural world, too. You may be familiar with what organic farming entails, but many of us are still wondering what exactly that weird, biodynamic movement is that so many farmers seem to be putting into practice. Find all the answers to your queries here, with this ultimate biodynamic breakdown cheat sheet.

what is biodynamic wine?

The official definition of biodynamic farming according to the Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association is “a spiritual-ethical-ecological approach to agriculture, gardens, food production and nutrition.” Biodynamic wine is made with a set of farming practices that views the farm or vineyard as one solid organism. The ecosystem functions as a whole, with each portion of the farm or vineyard contributing to the next. The idea is to create a self-sustaining system. Natural materials, soils, and composts are used to sustain the vineyard. Chemical fertilizers and pesticides are forbidden for the sake of soil fertility. A range of animals from ducks to horses to sheep live on the soil and fertilize it, creating a rich, fertile environment for the vines to grow in. Biodynamic farming also seeks sustainability, or leaving the land in as good or better shape as they found it for future generations.