Biodynamic wines: in harmony with nature
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The production of biodynamic wines is about thinking and acting holistically in harmony with nature - a circular economy. Biodynamic wines not only offer outstanding quality and puristic taste, but also a deep insight into sustainable viticulture and the connection between man, nature and the cosmos. Find out more about biodynamic wines and why they go one step further than organic wines.
(c)Biodynamic preparation ©BFDI
The philosophy of biodynamic wine production
The best quality in harmony with man and nature: the philosophy of biodynamic wines in a few words. The increasing number of winegrowers using biodynamic methods is astonishing and impressively demonstrates that the biodynamic form of viticulture is nowadays a prerequisite for first-class, authentic wines with origin and character.
The declared aim of biodynamic wines is individuality rather than average taste. Biodynamic viticulture and winemaking place high demands on cultivation and work in the cellar. Instead of the usual specialized knowledge of technology and chemistry, a high degree of intuition and intensive experience is required in the vineyard and cellar. Biodynamic winemaking reunites nature and man: the vine as an element of our natural environment.
This philosophy has also permeated the work in the cellar. Wine should be the product of the soil and the microclimate and not of chemicals or technology "laboratories". Instead of the usual mass product that meets the demands of the global market, you get a unique product that reflects the character of the winemaker and nature in a unique way.
Biodynamic wine is characterized by a high level of quality by staying true to the essential nature, microclimate and soil. More depth, more complexity and more freshness.
What does biodynamic wine taste like?
The multitude of different chemicals and technologies permitted under European Union and national legislation is almost unmanageable. In fact, wine is no longer considered a natural product.
Biodynamic wine is characterized by a high level of quality by remaining faithful to the essential nature, the microclimate and the soil. More depth, more complexity and more freshness. Instead of the usual mass product that meets the demands of the global market, you get a unique product that reflects the character of the winemaker and nature in a unique way. The soul of nature and the heart of our winemakers are reflected in the "heart and soul" of biodynamic wines.
In addition, there is an interesting phenomenon in many biodynamic wines: a high degree of stability, especially in white wines. Wines quickly lose their quality and freshness after opening. This applies not only to simple wines, but also to expensive vintages. In contrast, biodynamic wines have the ability to retain their quality and freshness, sometimes even for several days after opening.
Healthy soils and grapes deliver the best possible quality
The diversity of plants, water, minerals and animals is the basic guarantee for the natural, healthy growth of vines and in turn leads to high quality grapes and wine. Weeds enrich the soil with nutrients and at the same time loosen it up. Karl Schnabel repeatedly emphasizes how important it is to have a high level of biodiversity in the vineyard. Healthy soil produces healthy grapes and, in turn, good wines. The soil is treated as gently as possible. In some cases, horses are even used. Harvesting machines are taboo.
Only ripe and healthy grapes are harvested and processed. The end result is a product of high quality and enjoyable wine. You can see, smell and taste the quality directly in the glass. This form of viticulture and winemaking means additional costs for the winegrowers.
On average, the yields per hectare in biodynamic viticulture are around 50% to 70% lower than those of a conventional farm (with around 91 to 110 hectolitres per hectare) that uses artificial or chemical fertilizers. This clearly shows that quality cannot be achieved through quantity, but through individual commitment, effort and dedication.
ECOCERT, Biodyvin and Demeter: Seals of biodynamic wines
If you want to buy biodynamic wines, you should look for the following certifications and seals. Wines from Demeter or Ecocert are among the world's leading independent organizations for the certification of organic agriculture with organically produced products. ECOCERT is accredited by many international organizations and various countries as a monitoring and certification body and is subject to public law provisions such as those set out in the EU Organic Regulation. In Europe alone, ECOCERT has certified over 20,000 farms. These many years of experience guarantee you as a consumer a high level of trust and security in the Biodyvin wineries certified by ECOCERT.
Biodyvin is an association of biodynamic winegrowers.
Its main goal is to preserve the natural balance in the vineyard without interventions such as additives or alterations. The working philosophy and principles for the vineyard and cellar are set out in the Biodyvin guidelines. Compliance is checked and certified annually by Ecocert®, for which the winegrowers must document all steps in a protocol. Biodyvin was founded in 2002 and currently consists of 39 member companies. Under the leadership of the current president, Olivier Humbrecht, a committee meets regularly to promote the development of biodynamic viticulture and the quality of the wines.
Biodynamic wines from Demeter
Demeter is an internationally recognized certification for biodynamic agriculture and food. You probably know the label from the supermarket. It is based on the principles of biodynamic agriculture developed by Rudolf Steiner. Demeter farmers have been successfully practicing biodynamic agriculture since 1924. This living form of circular economy is considered one of the most sustainable methods of farming and far exceeds the requirements of the EU Organic Regulation.
At the heart of Demeter are biodynamic preparations, which are mandatory for every Demeter farm. The Latin word preparation means something like "the prepared, the prepared". The biodynamic preparations are vitalizing preparations for soil and plants. As a kind of remedy for the earth, they also promote the growth and quality of plants as well as animal health. For their production, plant, mineral and animal substances are combined and exposed to natural forces before being returned to nature in a modified form. The compost preparations are made from the medicinal plants yarrow, camomile, nettle, oak bark, dandelion and valerian.
Biodynamic wines at Drops
At Drops, we work with winemakers who make the difference. From international superstars to young talents - they are the pioneers of a new wine generation: close to nature, obsessed with quality and genuine. We couldn't imagine better partners.
Discover the biodynamic wines from Heinrich, Karl Schnabel, Odinstal, Tauss, Rebenhof and many more.
Wild, exotic and floral - the Naked White is a firework of aromas that really activates the palate with a light grip and melting texture. With all this funk, the minerality is not neglected.
The Zweigelt Sainee is the rosé with the danger of a quick sip: highly animating with fragrant cherries and raspberries. Light as a feather and perfect for summer, is the next one already cold?
Like a fresh, cinnamony cherry pie from the oven. On the palate, the Naked Red is quite mature with finely integrated acidity and endless juiciness. Absolute price/performance bomb.
