Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Biodynamics - Fact or Fiction

As most of you know, CdT is farmed organically, and we have kept a close eye on the Biodynamic wave in viticulture. I am not convinced as to its relevancy, but there are several growers who I greatly respect that are true believers. We are looking at this and I need to be convinced this is the way to go. I would love to hear thoughts and comments from growers, winemakers, consumers, et al, as to their thoughts on this subject.

3 comments:

Scott Neal said...

Here is a good review of biodynamics on Wiki. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biodynamic_wine

Unknown said...

Well, I've learned a lot in converting 150 acres to biodynamic production from good ol' organics. Mostly, I see biodynamics as a good repository for old farming techniques that still have a relevancy today.

For instance, from having studied biodynamics, I learned of using willow bark tea to promote rooting, and had a lot of success in comparing a vineyard planted from rootstock that had soaked in a willow bark tea with a control section that hadn't.

At its best, by remaining open to what's still held amongst biodynamic practitioners, we have another source of farming wisdom. At its worst, it's just a marketing tool to help sell your wines.

Truthfully, though, I found a greater source of viticultural knowledge in the works of Columella than I did in Rudolf Steiner.

Anyways, it was nice to meet you and your wine is great.

Scott Neal said...

Thanks for the tip on Columella and I will check out his book. I appreciate your comments and experience. I agree that there seems to be significant common sense to biodynamics, but there seems to be some issues from my end as well (see cosmic pipes).