In recent years, the wine world has been buzzing with a shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Leading this movement are biodynamic and natural wines, which are winning over both winemakers and wine lovers with their unique methods and distinct flavors.
Biodynamic Winemaking: A Holistic Approach
Back in 1924, a group of concerned farmers in Central Europe noticed their soils were losing vitality due to the heavy use of synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and insecticides. Seeking a solution, they turned to philosopher and social reformer Rudolf Steiner who introduced them to biodynamic agriculture. Steiner (who you may know as the creator of the Waldorf system of education) proposed a farming method that treats the farm as a self-sustaining ecosystem, with a rich biodiversity rather than a monoculture. This approach not only avoids synthetic chemicals but also incorporates lunar and astrological cycles for planting and harvesting.
Biodynamic farming goes beyond organic practices by emphasizing that the farm should provide all necessary resources, creating a rich, diverse environment. Today, renowned wineries like Domaine de la Romanée-Conti in Burgundy and Château Palmer in Bordeaux use biodynamic methods. Organizations such as Respekt-BIODYN in Austria and the Biodynamic Federation Demeter International in Germany certify thousands of farms worldwide, promoting these holistic practices.
Natural Wines: Minimal Intervention, Maximum Expression
Natural wines, affectionately known as ‘natty,’ embrace a philosophy of minimal intervention. Typically beginning with organically or biodynamically farmed grapes, these wines shun synthetic additives and chemicals, relying on natural processes throughout production. There isn’t an official definition for “natural wine,” so it ultimately depends on the winemaker’s interpretation. However, the common thread is a commitment to preserving the land and expressing the true essence of the wine through eco-friendly practices.
Natural winemakers avoid pesticides and herbicides, opting instead to hand-pick grapes rather than using machines. They often rely on wild yeasts naturally present on the grapes and in the winery for fermentation, which produces wines that reflect the unique character of the grapes and the terroir where they were grown. This hands-off approach celebrates the grape’s natural character, producing wines that many enthusiasts find more expressive and truer to their origin.
These natty wines are known for their unique and complex flavor profiles, often focusing on freshness and acidity rather than sweetness or oakiness. They are the wine equivalent of #nofilter, sometimes appearing cloudier in the glass than traditional wines — but not always. This unpredictability and authenticity appeal to wine drinkers who appreciate the artisanal nature of these wines and their environmental benefits.
Scientific Support and Market Growth
Biodynamic farming’s benefits are backed by science. A review in the journal Organic Agriculture found that biodynamic practices enhance soil quality and vineyard biodiversity. A study in the American Journal of Enology and Viticulture showed that biodynamically farmed vineyards had higher levels of brix (a measure of grape sugar content) and phenols (compounds affecting bitterness, color, and antioxidant properties) compared to organic vineyards. The soil in these vineyards was also richer in anthocyanins, which have health-boosting properties.
The demand for biodynamic and natural wines is on the rise, driven by a growing interest in health and sustainability. Millennials and Generation Z consumers, in particular, are championing this trend, prioritizing authenticity and environmental responsibility. Wine bars and retailers specializing in these wines are popping up in major cities, making them more accessible.
Market data reflects this surge. A report by Grand View Research predicts the global natural wine market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.4% from 2021 to 2028. Even large wine producers are exploring biodynamic and natural practices to meet this growing demand.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite their popularity, biodynamic and natural wines are not without controversy. Critics argue that the lack of standardized definitions and regulations can lead to inconsistencies and mislabeling. The unpredictable nature of natural wines can also be off-putting to those who prefer consistency.
Winemakers face challenges too, including higher labor costs and the risk of crop failure due to reliance on natural processes. Yet, many are willing to take these risks for the sake of sustainability and quality.
The Future of Winemaking
As the wine industry evolves, the rise of biodynamic and natural wines represents a significant shift towards more sustainable and authentic production methods. These wines offer a new way to experience the complexity and diversity of viticulture, attracting a new generation of wine enthusiasts. Whether for their environmental benefits or their unique flavors, biodynamic and natural wines are set to play a central role in the future of winemaking.
