Biodynamic Viticulture

Biodynamic viticulture as practiced by a wine estate is based on the ideas and philosophies of Rudolph Steiner. Frequently called ‘Biodynamic Viticulture’, this can be understood as a special form of the organic method of production.

This method of production is articulated in a holistic overview of the agricultural establishment (man, animal, plant) and closed cycles, through species-rich crop rotation and animal husbandry; it is rather difficult to implement in wine producing estates. In support of the crop-fortifying treatments (Pflanzenstärkungsmitteln) used in organic production, additional specifically targeted preparations like horn silica and horn manure preparations¹ as well as various plant-extracts are introduced.

The holistic view also includes acknowledging cosmic influences like the phases of the moon upon living organisms. Soil cultivation, sowing, planting and cellar work should be carried out in observance of the planetary constellations² so far as the estate’s structure and weather conditions permit.

As in organic viticulture, freely soluble chemical/synthetic fertilisers and herbicides are forbidden. Based upon soil analysis, mineral fertilisers may be applied. The soils are to be planted with greencover and should be regularly treated with organic fertiliser (unfortunately, obtaining an adequate supply of organic fertiliser is not so simple for a wine estate. If purchased, it must be supplied by a biodynamic establishment.)

Just like organic estates, biodynamic estates also guarantee that all substances used on their premises are free of any genetic manipulation.

¹ Effectiveness of the preparations cited is not proven by scientific evidence.
²The effect of these certain planetary constellations upon work in the vineyard and the cellar is not proven by scientific evidence.