What is the difference?

There are organically produced and certified wines, winemakers who swear by biodynamics, and those who produce natural wines. All fine, but what are the differences?

Three terms that are often confused, but are clearly distinguishable. Even though the details are complicated, we'll try to quickly and briefly explain the most important differences. Let's get started.

organic wine

It is regulated and certified. In Switzerland, for example, this has been the case with Bio-Suisse since 1981. In Italy, the legally binding EU regulations for organic wine have been in effect since 2012. Winemakers refrain from using synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and artificial fertilizers. Sulfur, as well as copper, may be used in limited quantities. The clear goal is to reduce copper, and organic research is moving toward copper substitutes.

Biodynamic wines

Here, too, there is an internationally proven, well-known, and rigid label, which takes its name from the fertility goddess Demeter. Around 700 wineries worldwide are certified with this label. Biodynamic cultivation (according to the anthroposophical principles of Rudolf Steiner) strengthens the soil, the plants, the animals, and ultimately, the people as well. Biodynamic preparations are used, and even in the cellar, the oenological scope is severely limited. Fermentation takes place exclusively with natural yeasts found on the grapes. No enzymes are permitted, and fining agents are also limited. The cultivation and vinification of the grapes follows the lunar and planetary calendar. The motto of biodynamically produced wine is simple: Good wine is created in the vineyard, not in the cellar.

Natural wines

Winemakers who produce natural wines can, for example, obtain certification with a Demeter label, but they are not required to. The term "natural wine" is not protected; it reflects more of an attitude than a certification. The goal is to intervene as little as possible throughout the entire production cycle. This means, for example, spontaneous fermentation. No filtration. No fining. The addition of sulfur to stabilize the wine is also controversial. Natural wines aim to convey the terroir and the vintage as authentically as possible.

Everything clear?

You can assume that organically or biodynamically certified wineries follow established standards. But for the winemakers, it's not just about producing wine; it's about monitoring the grapes throughout the year. This is exciting and fascinating because you can learn from nature and grow with it. That's why we're enthusiastic about all forms of natural winemaking. We have the utmost respect for the winemakers' respective philosophies and are always delighted when we sense their thoughtfulness and commitment in the glass.