In a world where consumers are looking for natural, eco-friendly products, organic and biodynamic wines are the stars of the show. Made from sustainable farming, organic practices and soil health, these wines are the pure expression of the land and a healthier alternative to conventional wines. From organic wineries in Napa Valley to biodynamic vineyards in South Australia’s Barossa Valley, there’s a Wine Tours for every region and grape variety. This guide delves into the world of organic and biodynamic wines, the winemaking process and some top organic wineries to visit.
What is Organic, Biodynamic, and Natural?
Organic, biodynamic, and natural wines share a common goal of using minimal chemicals and natural viticulture. Here’s a breakdown:
Organic Wines: Organic wines are made from organic grapes grown without synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers. Organic farming uses natural fertilizers, cover cropping and other techniques to build healthy soils and a balanced vineyard ecosystem. No synthetic chemicals mean a purer grape profile so that the grape variety can shine without artificial interference. Organic certification from recognised certification bodies like Wine Australia or the Organic Wine Exchange verifies these wines meet organic standards.
Biodynamic Wines: Biodynamic wine-making is based on the principles of Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner. This goes beyond organic farming, treating the vineyard as a self-sustaining ecosystem. Biodynamic viticulture uses celestial bodies and lunar calendar phases, with flower days and fruit days guiding activities like planting and harvesting. Biodynamic farming uses natural preparations and special compost preparations to increase soil fertility and vineyard health, producing a unique style of wine. Notable biodynamic wineries like Krinklewood Vineyard in Hunter Valley embody this approach, making wines that reflect the land’s rhythms. You can book Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tours Sydney with verified operators, such as Autopia Tours, Wildlifetours or Wayoutback Tours.
Natural Wines: Natural wines are made by natural winemakers who believe in minimal intervention, no additives and no synthetic chemicals. Unlike conventional wine, natural wine has little to no added sulfites (sulphur dioxide) and captures the flavour of the grapes and terroir. This category is part of the natural wine movement which includes vegan wine, orange wine and other alternative wines made with a focus on purity.
These wines are for wine lovers who want to taste the vineyard with minimal interference. Each method is a commitment to soil health, sustainability and the natural world.
Organic, Biodynamic and Natural Winemaking
The winemaking process for organic, biodynamic and natural wines focuses on soil health and reducing synthetic inputs. Organic and biodynamic viticulture prioritises long term soil fertility, using natural fertilizers instead of chemical fertilizers or synthetic pesticides. Biodynamics is unique in that it incorporates cosmic rhythms, following a biodynamic calendar that takes into account the influence of celestial bodies on plant growth.
In the winery organic winemakers limit additives, using less sulphur dioxide (a common preservative) to preserve the wine naturally. Biodynamic winemakers may use no sulphites at all, so the wine is a true reflection of the vineyard. Natural winemakers take this even further, many not using any additives, filtering agents or preservatives like potassium metabisulphite.
Natural wines are often described as “alive” with flavours that change over time and reflect the vineyard’s ecosystem. While these wines may be less stable than conventional wines because of the lack of synthetic preservatives, they offer a unique experience for those who appreciate a minimally processed wine.
Why Choose Organic, Biodynamic and Natural Wines
Choosing organic, biodynamic and natural wines benefits the environment and the consumer’s health and taste experience. No synthetic chemicals, more biodiversity and more complex flavours for wine lovers who want sustainability and quality.
- Environmental Impact: By not using chemical inputs organic and biodynamic wines preserve soil health and protect the ecosystem. This is a sustainable approach to healthy soils and regenerative farming that enhances soil fertility over time.
- Health Benefits: Organic and biodynamic wines have less additive sulphur and other preservatives so are a healthier option for those who are sensitive to sulfites.
- Flavour Complexity: These wines reflect the vineyard ecosystem, flavours that change and reveal the terroir. Biodynamic wines are known for their vibrant and expressive qualities, black fruits, earth and other complex notes that will leave you with a lasting impression.
So, you want to reduce your footprint and drink wine? Here’s your way in—sparkling, white, full-bodied reds.
Top Organic and Biodynamic Wineries Worldwide
Visiting organic and biodynamic wineries is the best way to see the commitment to sustainability in action. Here are some of the top wineries that offer tours, tastings and a behind the scenes look at organic and biodynamic winemaking.
- Krinklewood Vineyard (Hunter Valley, Australia): Biodynamic winery with biodynamic practices and environmental conservation. It uses special compost preparations and holistic viticulture to create a balanced ecosystem for wines with natural flavours.
- Gemtree Wines (South Australia): In McLaren Vale, Gemtree Wines is a pioneer in sustainable and organic viticulture. They produce sustainable wines using organic and biodynamic methods, soil health and ecological balance. Gemtree’s wines are known for their purity and connection to the land.
- Château Maris (Languedoc, France): Biodynamic wine with carbon neutral winery, Château Maris is committed to sustainable and regenerative farming—biodynamic vineyards with biodynamic soils and wines that reflect the terroir of the Languedoc.
- Frey Vineyards (Napa Valley, USA): First organic winery in the US, Frey Vineyards makes a range of wines without synthetic chemicals. Their organic farming practices and no additives has made them a leader in the organic wine industry.
These wineries offer more than wine, they offer a wine tasting experience that includes education on organic principles, farming practices and connection to the land.
Tips for Tasting Organic and Biodynamic Wine
When tasting organic and biodynamic wine, there are a few ways to make the most of it and get the full flavour:
- Aerate the Wine: As these wines have less additives they can benefit from being breathed to release the aromas and flavours.
- Pair with Clean Flavours: Organic and biodynamic wines have subtle flavours. Pair with clean light food to get the complexity.
- Look for Certification on the Label: Authentic organic and biodynamic wines will have certification on the label from a recognised body like Wine Australia or Organic Wine Exchange to ensure they meet the standards.
- Try Different Styles: Organic and biodynamic wines come in many styles, from rich reds and expressive wines with complexity to crisp whites and sparkling wines. Each style has something to offer.
These wines are for those who want a full wine tasting experience, one that shows the flavour but also the passion of the winemakers to sustainable and ethical practices.
Organic, biodynamic and natural wines is a journey for wine lovers, with flavours that tell the story of the vineyard, the soil and the sustainable practices behind them. These wines are not only delicious but also a choice for the environment and a more sustainable wine industry. Whether you are new to organic wine or looking to get more into it, the world of organic and biodynamic wine is to be explored, educated and savoured in every sip.
FAQ
What is the difference between biodynamic and organic wine?
Biodynamic wine goes beyond organic. It follows a holistic approach that includes biodynamic principles and the lunar calendar in farming activities. This approach to viticulture creates a more connected and regenerative vineyard.
Are natural wines free of all preservatives?
Many natural wines are sulphur dioxide and preservative free, some may have minimal sulphur dioxide to ensure stability. Natural winemakers are minimal intervention so these wines are often the purest expression of the grapes.
How do organic wines affect soil health?
Organic wines benefit soil health by not using synthetic chemicals and using practices that build soil fertility. These practices improve soil over time and the overall health of the vineyard.
Can I find many different wines that are organic or biodynamic?
Yes, organic and biodynamic wineries produce many different wines: red, white, sparkling and even orange wines. So wine lovers can try different styles and support sustainable practices.
Are organic wines different from conventional wines in the label?
Organic wines will have labels with certification from a recognised body like Organic Wine Exchange or Wine Australia. These labels will state that the wine is organic or biodynamic and free of synthetic chemicals.
