With organic and biodynamic wines becoming increasingly popular, the top restaurants are including them on their wine lists more and more. Claude Bosi’s restaurant Hibiscus have nine wines all from one biodynamic vineyard – Chateau le Puy. One of the most popular Bordeaux Biodynamic vineyards, which has been in the same family since the 1600’s, Chateau le Puy is mostly made up of the Merlot grape, and is a full-bodied red wine.
The History of Biodynamic Wines
The term Biodynamic refers to the agricultural methods used as well as the handling of the fruit after harvesting. Biodynamic viticulture stems from Rudolf Steiner, who gave an Agriculture Course in 1924, and a lot of the practices and rules of biodynamics are based on his theories, teachings and philosophy.
What is a Biodynamic Wine?
These wines are not the same as organic wine, despite many thinking that it is. Instead, it’s much more than organic wine. Not only do the winemakers make the wine 100% organic, but they also adhere to the practices of Rudolf Steiner and attempt to produce their wines in line with nature. They do this by doing things such as making their own compost and growing and treating the vines following phases of the moon.
The lunar calendar the wine growers follow makes much more sense than it sounds and is actually a very old way of growing and making wine, as the ancient Egyptians and Phoenicians used it to make their wines. Biodynamic wine growers such as those at Chateau le Puy make sure that the vines are happy and healthy in their environment, as well as using zero chemicals or artificial chemicals.
Is it true Biodynamic Wines Do Not Contain Sulphates?
No, this is not true, some of these wines do contain sulphates. Although they contain less than normal wine, if you have an allergy or don’t want to consume sulphates, you’re better off buying sulphate-free wine.
Why are Top Chefs Using Biodynamic Wines?
Not only are Biodynamic wines made in better environments, but they have a much greater purity, a better expression of fruit, and are also usually lower in alcohol.
Do I Have to Pay Premium Prices?
No! While you will always have to pay a premium price in a restaurant, if you buy the wines through an online wine merchant you can get them at very good prices. Some online merchants sell the famous Chateau Le Puy, which is on the Hibiscus wine list, for just £37 – over half the price it is sold for in the likes of Hibiscus!
How popular are Biodynamic Wines?
Wines such as Chateau le Puy are becoming increasingly popular as people realize they are better for you. While some of the top restaurants are stocking biodynamic wines, there are also bars popping up that serve them! Some in London include Bar Battu, Green Man, and Terroirs.
How do I know if a Wine is Biodynamic?
If you’re in a decent restaurant ask their sommelier if they have any and which one would be best for you, they will help you with your decision. If you would like a biodynamic wine from an online wine merchant, turn to Google and they will be able to refer you to a suitable online wine retailer. Best wine tours willamette valley