What is Biodynamic Wine? Getting Into Biodynamic Wine

Biodynamic wine is crafted from grapes cultivated using biodynamic farming methods. This holistic approach to agriculture views the farm as a living organism and is rooted in anthroposophy, a philosophy established in the early 1920s by Austrian philosopher and scientist Dr. Rudolf Steiner.


Overview

In discussing natural wine, it's important to recognize that it represents a different approach to winemaking, one that starts with organic grapes and often extends to those grown biodynamically.

Natural winemakers believe that only organic or biodynamic grapes possess the necessary qualities to withstand the non-interventionist methods required in natural winemaking. These unadulterated grapes can be transformed into natural wine without the risks that can arise with conventional practices.

But are biodynamic wines also natural wines? Not always. The key distinction is that biodynamic wines can be produced using more conventional methods and don’t necessarily adhere to the principles of natural winemaking.

While there is considerable overlap—many biodynamic wines are also natural wines—the defining factor for biodynamic wines is whether the grapes were farmed biodynamically, regardless of the winemaking process. Now, let's explore what biodynamic farming entails.


The Principles of Biodynamics


Biodynamics Views the Farm as a Living Organism

A biodynamic farm is characterized by the interdependence of plants, animals, and humans. The farmer’s role is to maintain and enhance this balance through the application of biodynamic principles, creating a habitat where all elements coexist in harmony.


Biodynamic Farming Promotes Biodiversity

Biodiversity, including a variety of plants, pastures, flowers, fruits, and domestic animals, contributes to the overall health of the ecosystem. A biodynamic farmer gradually introduces different species to develop the natural resilience of the farm while preserving its harmony.


Plants and Animals Work Together

The symbiosis between plant and animal life is a cornerstone of biodynamic farming, unlike other forms of agriculture. Animals contribute manure to support plant growth, while plants provide food and create an environment conducive to the animals’ reproductive cycles.


Animal Welfare

Animals on a biodynamic farm are never fed animal-based products or processed foods, and the preferred method of husbandry is free-range.


Chemical Fertilizers Are Prohibited

On a biodynamic farm, fertility is achieved without the use of chemical fertilizers or other artificial methods. Practices such as composting, cover cropping, and crop rotation are regularly implemented to rejuvenate the soil.

Preventing Pests and Diseases with Biodynamics

Instead of using pesticides to eliminate pests and diseases, biodynamic farming aims to prevent their occurrence by fostering an environment where they cannot thrive. This is primarily achieved by promoting biodiversity, which restores the natural balance of the ecosystem.


Regenerating Nature with Biodynamic Farming

Biodynamics is a radical concept where farming transcends mere crop or livestock production. It’s a way of life where every action should be regenerative and non-destructive, integrating with the broader community.


Community Supported Agriculture

Biodynamic farming is grounded in strong ethical principles, with many farmers adopting "triple bottom line" approaches that promote ecological, social, and economic sustainability for the entire community. Following Rudolf Steiner’s teachings, biodynamics extends beyond farming to encompass all aspects of life.


Biodynamic Farming as Spiritual Farming

Biodynamic farming is also a spiritual practice, working in harmony with all living beings, the Earth, and the cosmos. Biodynamic farmers follow a specific calendar that maps the influence of cosmic forces on the environment.


The Tools of Biodynamic Farming


The Six Biodynamic Preparations

  1. Yarrow (Preparation 502): Mobilizes sulfur and potassium.
  2. Chamomile (Preparation 503): Regulates the nitrogen process.
  3. Stinging nettle (Preparation 504): Promotes the formation of humus.
  4. Oak bark (Preparation 505): Increases plant resistance.
  5. Dandelion (Preparation 506): Enables plants and soil life to access silica.
  6. Valerian (Preparation 507): Protects the compost heap.


The Three Biodynamic Sprays

  1. Cow Horn Manure (Preparation 500): Made by filling a cow horn with cow manure, then burying it in the soil from November to February. This preparation is sprayed on vineyards four times a year following the descending lunar phases and is said to regenerate degraded soils.
  2. Horn Silica (Preparation 501): Created by filling a cow horn with finely ground quartz crystals and burying it from March to April. It’s sprayed over vineyards early in the morning and is believed to boost plant immunity.
  3. Horsetail (Preparation 508): Made by boiling or fermenting horsetail, a plant rich in silica. The resulting tea is sprayed in the morning and is thought to prevent fungal diseases and mildew.


Certifying Biodynamic Wine

Unlike natural wine, which lacks a standardized definition and certifying body, biodynamic wine is clearly defined and certified by a recognized institution.

Demeter International, headquartered in France, certifies biodynamic wine under the Demeter Biodynamic® Standard, established in 1928. Demeter International has a sister organization in the United States, Demeter USA, which manages the certification process.

The Demeter Biodynamic® Standard certification builds upon USDA organic certification with additional requirements:

  • The entire farm, not just a specific crop, must be certified.
  • Crops and livestock must be integrated, and animals treated humanely.
  • Imported fertility is minimized.
  • Biodynamic preparations are regularly applied.
  • At least 50% of livestock feed must be produced on the farm.
  • At least 10% of the farm’s total acreage is dedicated to biodiversity.
  • The farm must adhere to standards of social responsibility.