As climate change and environmental awareness take centre stage, the demand for wines that align with environmentally friendly principles has grown significantly. But what do these terms really mean, and how do they impact the wine in your glass?
In the evolving world of wine, terms like organic, sustainable, and biodynamic are more than just buzzwords; they represent different philosophies and practices that are shaping the way wine is produced. As climate change and environmental awareness take centre stage, the demand for wines that align with eco-friendly principles has grown significantly. But what do these terms really mean, and how do they impact the wine in your glass?
“Majestic has the largest range of organic wines of any national retailer”
Soil Association Certification, 2024
Organic Certification
Organic is probably the most well-known term among the three, focusing on the elimination of synthetic chemicals. Organic wines must be made with 100 percent organically grown grapes and ensure that the winemaking process adheres to organic guidelines too. This involves strict regulations that ensure the use of natural alternatives in place of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilisers – as well as farming and winemaking practices that respect the land and environment.
Organic certification is a rigorous process. From the planting of each vine through to the bottling, labelling and transportation, everything must comply with stringent organic standards, protecting the environment but also promoting biodiversity within the vineyard.
The journey to organic certification is long and challenging, producers need to tick every box for at least three years before their wine can be labelled with the organic emblem, a true challenge and labour of love.
One of our most-loved producers, Château Peyrassol, has been practising and certified organic for many years. Their commitment to these principles shines through in their range, making each style wholly distinguishable and unique. Another fantastic example is the Vilarnaü, who proudly champions organic certification, alongside impeccible style.
Sustainability in winemaking goes beyond the avoidance of chemicals; it’s about a holistic approach to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, and ensuring economic viability. Sustainable wine production focuses on long-term environmental stewardship, balancing the needs of today without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.
Sustainable practices can include water conservation, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and the promotion of biodiversity. Unlike organic certification, sustainable certification can vary significantly by region, as it encompasses a broader range of environmental, social, and economic factors.
These wines are often made with minimal intervention, with winemakers keen to let the terroir speak for itself while maintaining the health of their vineyards and surrounding ecosystems. Sustainability is about more than just the vineyard; it’s about ensuring the entire wine production process, from grape to glass, is as environmentally friendly as possible.
Producers like Awatere River from Marlborough and Taittinger Champagne are heavily invested in environmentally sustainable practices. Pringle Bay from South Africa are an excellent example of socio-economic sustainability, supporting The Pebbles Project; an organisation that enriches the lives of disadvantaged children and families in the agricultural communities of the Western Cape.
Biodynamic wine production is perhaps the most mystical and holistic approach to viticulture, often compared to organic farming, it relies much more on strological movements and the ancient rituals of winemaking. Rooted in the philosophies of Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner, biodynamic farming views the vineyard as a self-sustaining ecosystem. It incorporates organic practices but also includes a range of spiritual and astrological considerations, such as following lunar cycles and using special compost preparations. Some are more unusual than others, each having a totally unique impact on the growing cycle.
The key difference between organic and biodynamic practices lies in the latter’s emphasis on creating a balanced ecosystem. This approach treats the vineyard as a living organism, where every element – soil, plants, animals, and even the phases of the moon plays a vital role. Biodynamic farming is about restoring and maintaining this natural balance, leading to healthier vines and, many believe, more expressive wines.
A great example is Domaine de la Croix, whos wines are a perfect showcase of how organic and biodynamic principles can work together.
