Organic wine, biodynamic wine, natural wine: what are the differences?

At Cavissima, respect for the environment is one of the core values of our ethics. Therefore, we make it a point of honor to select wines at a minimum Produced according to the principles of sustainable agriculture. Furthermore, continuing along this path, we are offering you an increasing number of organic and biodynamic wines.

On this occasion, let us briefly revisit the distinction between these two methods and their influence when it comes to tasting.

The differences between organic wines, biodynamic wines and natural wines

Organic wines      

To be certified “organic wineThe precious blend must meet very specific requirements. Since 2012, with harmonization at the European level, not only the grapes but also the winemaking process are controlled.

Thus, to obtain the AB label Or EcocertThe vine must comply with certain rules. Among them are:

• no chemical treatment (fertilizer or pesticide);
• no GMOs;
• reduced sulfite content;
• “Clean” winemaking with certified organic additives.

Upon application, the label is obtained after 4 harvests respecting the procedures.
Today, with a growing trend, 9% of French vineyards display one of the two labels.

Biodynamic wines

Next, the biodynamic viticulture pushes the process even further. One must first have obtained organic certification to be eligible for this certification. Biodynamics is not simply a method of agricultural production but corresponds to a true philosophy. It is, moreover, a process inspired by the work of Rudolf Steiner (Austrian philosopher and agronomist) on anthroposophy.

Thus, biodynamics is part of a comprehensive environmental approach and aims to intensify the connection between the vine and the rest of nature. This involves, in particular, promoting biodiversity within the vineyard, non-mechanized soil cultivation, and so on, all in harmony with the lunar and solar cycles. In this way, in symbiosis with its environment, the vine draws more of the characteristics of the terroir.
As for vineyard treatment, it takes on a homeopathic character and focuses on prevention. A very short list of natural inputs is permitted.

Finally, from a legal standpoint, there is no European harmonization (yet) like there is for organic products. However, there are two organizations that govern the charter to be followed: Biodyvin And DemeterToday, these certifiers awarded the designation “biodynamic wine"to about 500 winegrowers.

Natural wines 

Besides organic and biodynamic wines, one can now find “natural wines" Or "natural wines"which are intended to be completely free of any additives (no inputs, no additives). They can be identified by the logo AVN (natural wine association).
For those who want to push the experience to the limit, be aware that there are also the HEALTHY wines (Without any additives or sulfites). 

What is the taste like for these organic, biodynamic and natural wines?

The taste of the land

At the house of Cavissima We are convinced of the superior taste of wines produced using organic and biodynamic methods. Increasing respect for the environment in no way diminishes the quality of the product; quite the opposite.
As proof, note that a significant proportion of classified growths (Château Latour, Château Angélus...are organically grown! Excellence thrives on constraints, and the constraints of organic farming demand greater attention in the vineyard and the winery. This is reflected in the glass.

Note that these exceptional wines don't necessarily advertise their farming methods, and this stems from several reasons. Firstly, by not displaying the labels, they preserve the design of their labels. Secondly, these châteaux don't need this marketing tool to sell their bottles.
Thus, their transition to organic or biodynamic farming is motivated solely by the pursuit of...Excellency.

When tasting, we clearly observe a difference, or at least a different trend, between conventional wines and organic/biodynamic wines.
Indeed, organic wines generally have lower alcohol and sugar levels, with more pronounced acidity. They also exhibit a greater body and structure.
Furthermore, it is frequently said that respecting the plant's growth cycle offers a greater density of flavors, with "the feeling of rediscovering the taste of the land".
Finally, more specifically, the reds will adopt floral and fruity notes and the organic whites will prove to be more mineral than the conventional ones.

Our favorite organic and biodynamic products 

If you're having trouble choosing, here are our 3 favorite organic options...

• Château Rose-cutters - The Plots :  "La cuvée Les Plôts in the Minervois is a wine with a frank and fruity style. Already very expressive."
• The Mondotte :  "This wine is renowned for its silky texture and its very rich complexity. A star of Saint-Emilion that arouses much envy."
• THE Clos Pebble - Quartz : "A Châteauneuf-du-Pape "Masterful, with a harmonious and voluptuous mouth!"

… And the same top-quality biodynamic wines:

• Château Pontet-Canet : "One of the first Grands Crus Classés to have converted to Biodynamic farming. The results are conclusive. Pontet-Canet definitively rises to the top of its category."
• Domaine Alphonse Mellot - Sancerre La Moussière : "THE domaine Mellot, which has just celebrated its 500th anniversary, is one of the top-of-the-range estates in Sancerre; the wines are precise and pure."
•  Domaine de Beaurenard:  "This Châteauneuf-du-Pape will offer you a truly wonderful tasting experience combining balance, freshness and notes of red fruit."

Advice Before tasting, remember to decant your wine for about half an hour. Once opened, organic wines – with reduced sulfite content – should be consumed quickly (within 48 hours).

For further information on organic and biodynamic farming, please feel free to consult our other articles.