Natural, Organic and Biodynamic Wines
Okay, so let’s explain the differences between natural, organic and biodynamic, because it can get confusing...
What is Organic Wine?
Organic wines are certified organic. That word ‘organic’ is interpreted differently across wine growing regions but essentially these are wines made from grapes that have been grown organically, without artificial chemicals to fertilise the soil, kill insects or deter fungus. Organic farming is not technology-free or chemical-free but the chemicals and treatments used must be organic. There are some great organic wines out there but some pretty shabby ones too; a certificate doesn’t guarantee quality, it guarantees compliance.
What is Biodynamic Wine?
Biodynamic wines are made with a set of farming practices that views the farm or vineyard as one solid organism. It's a holistic, ecological, and ethical approach to farming, gardening, food, and nutrition. Biodynamics is rooted in the work of philosopher and scientist Dr. Rudolf Steiner, whose 1924 lectures to farmers opened a new way to integrate scientific understanding with a recognition of spirit in nature.
What is Natural Wine?
Natural wines are not about certification; they’re about love. Made by nature; simple as that. Natural winemakers – the producers we know and cherish – reject technology and artificial chemicals and only use naturally occurring yeasts (as opposed to cultured yeasts) during fermentation. While some add very, very small amounts of sulphites to preserve freshness, some don’t, which means natural wines are best drunk fresh, as nature intended. That’s why we make sure all our wines are super, super fresh.