Do you know the differences between Organic and Biodynamic wines? Do you know what they both taste like? Following is a little information to help you understand their differences and their similarities.
What are Organic Wines?
First, Organic and Biodynamic wines each have specifications the winery needs to adhere to.
The term organic is a little odd when it comes to wine. First, the U.S. and EU have different requirements for organic certification. Second, to acquire the USDA organic seal, wineries must forgo the use of sulfur dioxide in winemaking. This is a preservative that prevents oxidization and refermentation in the bottle and has been used since Roman times.
If you’re more concerned about chemicals in your glass, you should look for organic wines. It means the vineyard is farmed using organic practices. It also means no pesticides, chemical fertilizers, and no herbicides were used anywhere on the land or the fruit.
What are Biodynamic Wines?
Knowing this, both Organic and Biodynamic wines are farmed slightly differently.
The biodynamic approach is different. In grape-growing, this process is derived from the writings of the spiritual philosopher Rudolf Steiner. The vineyard is seen as an ecological whole, which means looking at the soil beneath the vines. It also looks at other flora and fauna in the area, growing together interdependently.
Biodynamic and Organic wines also differ from organic agriculture in its belief that farming can be attuned to the spiritual forces of the cosmos. What does that mean? And, how does that affect growing grapes for wine?
This might mean linking harvesting to the phases of the moon, creating a broom out of vines, stirring wine in a clockwise direction, using chamomile tea, or whatever… The end result for biodynamic wine is that the entire process, farm, and finished product are thought of as a whole. A holistic approach if you will. Actually, an approach that started before wine was ever put in its bottle.
Do Organic and Biodynamic Wines Taste Differently?
Do they taste differently. Not as far as we can tell. Quality wine is just that. Quality wine, regardless whether they are Organic or Biodynamic wines.
Did you know there are over 620 biodynamic wine producers in the world? Next time you read a label, check it for the organic seal or the words biodynamic. You may be surprised.
If you want to learn more about wines, check out our posts at https://www.forkscorksandbrews.com/corks/