Let’s chat about Organic Wine vs. Biodynamic Wine. Have you ever gotten confused in the wine store, wondering in the back of your mind what is the real difference between them? In this article, we will pull the cork from the bottle and reveal the truth.
Organic Wine
You most likely consider the term “organic” as pesticide-free fruits and vegetables, correct? The same analogy is fitting in this particular instance of wine. Organic wine is wine made from grapes that are organically grown, which essentially means the crop is grown free from synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers.
In other words, organic vineyards will then preserve a flourishing ecosystem by using natural alternatives to keep pests at bay and organically maintain the soil.
Biodynamic Wine
Yes. Here, we enter into the biodynamic wine crowd. If organic wines are the little, cool, and ecology-friendly children, then biodynamic wines are most likely their somewhat mystical, green-loving cousin. The biodynamic method of agriculture is based on organic farming and a number of holistic and even some spiritual practices.
The idea of biodynamics was the brainchild of an Austrian philosopher, Rudolf Steiner, in the 1920s. Among the key points of biodynamic agriculture is the portrayal of the vineyard as a living organism connected to the earth, the cosmos, and all living beings.
A biodynamic mechanic works in the field with a “planting calendar” synchronised with the movements of the moon and the planets, which assumes that these cosmic vibrations are life-related.
Key Differences
So, exactly what sets organic and biodynamic wines apart? Here are a few of the key differences:
- Philosophy and Practices: Whereas organic farming shares the same approach of avoiding synthesised chemicals in its mode of production, biodynamic farming treats the land and its elements more holistically, considering the cycles of the moon and using natural preparations.
- Certification: Organics and biodynamics need very different certifications. Organic certification is organised by government agencies, for example, the USDA in the United States or EU Organic Certification in Europe. On the other hand, biodynamic certification is overseen by organisations like Demeter International, which has its own set of very rigid standards.
- Sulfites: By law, this means that organic wines cannot include added sulfites, while biodynamic wines can in the United States, so long as they otherwise meet all of the requirements for being biodynamic.
- Taste and Quality: This one, of course, is very subjective, but many wine lovers claim biodynamic wine to be an expressive, terroir-driven wine that captures with clarity the natural environment of the vineyard. Organic wines are often defined by their purity and cleanliness of flavours.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between organic and biodynamic wine results from personal preference. Both types of wines benefit the environment and are created according to natural methods. If you’re intrigued by the holistic, cosmic approach, then give biodynamic wine a shot. If you want something that’s straight-up eco-friendly, it might as well be organic.
Final Thoughts
Next time you run through that wine aisle, you will have a better understanding of just what’s really going on with those labels. Bottoms up to being better educated and enjoying every sip of that favourite.
