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What is Biodynamics?
Oct
Biodynamics represents a holistic, ecological, and ethical farming methodology that views the vine within its environmental context. It occasionally encompasses esoteric concepts, with the lunar calendar exerting significant influence over decision-making processes.
In the realm of biodynamics, each farm or garden is perceived as an interconnected living organism comprising various elements such as fields, forests, plants, animals, soils, compost, individuals, and the essence of the land.
These biodynamic settings draw inspiration from the rich biodiversity of natural ecosystems and the distinctiveness of each landscape. Inclusion of vegetables, herbs, flowers, berries, fruits, nuts, and pollinator hedgerows enhances plant diversity, ultimately bolstering the vitality and resilience of the farm organism.
The holistic principle of biodynamics centers on nurturing the natural equilibrium of the vine within its surroundings.
Within viticulture, as in numerous agricultural practices, farmers contend with significant disease pressures. The conducive environment of humidity and heat fosters the proliferation of fungi and bacteria, sometimes transmitted by insects or arachnids.
By adopting a more systemic approach to cultivating their environment, farms attain a harmonious equilibrium that enhances adaptability and self-regulation.
Conversely, monoculture practices typically involve addressing diseases reactively rather than fostering vine resilience. Additionally, excessive reproduction of a single plant species within a crop poses a risk of compromising the grapes’ natural defenses by depleting genetic diversity.
Check out the following biodynamic wines:
Beaujolais
Loire
In present-day France, 15% of organic winemakers are certified as Biodynamic, signalling a growing trend. Due to its comprehensive and interconnected methodology, biodynamics presents challenges in studying specific practices, often incorporating alternative techniques like administering homeopathic doses of cow manure and silica, potentially activated through chaotic water structuring.
Biodynamic producers universally attest that wines crafted through this approach exhibit heightened liveliness, improved digestibility, and enhanced mineral complexity. This vitality is exemplified by the biodynamic wine calendar, where wines manifest distinct flavors based on the lunar cycle, categorizing days as fruit, flower, root, or leaf days.
Learn about Biodynamics with Aurelie Carreau from Chateau Mons la Graveyre:
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