Biodynamic Viticulture is a method based on the work of Austrian philosopher, Rudolf Steiner. He is considered to be the father of anthroposophy, which is a broad-based philosophy relating education, health and the attunement of man to the spirit of the earth and the entire universe. In 1924...

Steiner gave a series of lectures, which were collected in a book called "Agriculture" The lectures were based on Steiner's opinion
that the use of chemical fertilizers ( already being introduced at the time), would have negative and damaging effects on Mother Earth. Even today, this book is considered to be the "Bible" of biodynamie. There are a few simple precepts, which outline Steiner's philosophy on Agriculture: The planet as a "living being"; The cosmos, earth and man being connected, and man being given the power to either destroy or embellish what he has been given.

Biodynamic farming bans the use of all chemical fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. It involves the use of natural processes and preparations in conjunction with lunar and planetary cycles. These ideas are not actually new, and ancient man was attuned to such concepts. In writings from ancient history, the influence of the waxing and waning of the moon on a plant's growth cycle is referenced. The preparations used to ensure a healthy growth cycle for the vine include the composting of animal and vegetal waste as fertilizing elements, the spreading of Horn Manure on the ground to increase microbial activity, and the spraying of powdered compounds such as Horn Silica on foliage to reinforce photosynthesis, balance vigor, and improve the taste and aroma of the fruit- All of this is accomplished in a polycultural environment whereby other crops and farm animals all rely on each other. The result is nature in balance with itself. Pests and diseases are kept in check. Chemicals create dependency, and destroy these natural cycles on which vines, as well as all plants and animals rely.

As results have proven, the land is able to express itself through the fruit. It should come as no great surprise that a number of the greatest wine producers in the world have, or are in the process of converting to Biodynamic Viticulture- It is quite a commitment of time, resources, money etc. that make it difficult for many small wineries and estates to convert. It is even more expensive to be "Demeter" certified, which, at the present time is the only governing body officially dedicated to this type of certification.

At Jack Falstaff, we try to feature many producers who have either converted to Organic Viticulture, Biodynamic Viticulture, or who are committed to sustainable agriculture. Here are a few that we really love:

Saracina (Mendocino)
Cullen (Australia)
Domaine Leflaive (Burgundy, France)
Olssen's (Otago, New Zealand)
Brickhouse (Oregon)
Elk Cove (Oregon)
Pattiana (Mendocino)
Ceago (Mendocino)
Flowers (Russian River Valley)
Luddite (Mendocino)
Fleury (Champagne, France)
Domaine de Marcoux (Chateauneuf du Pape)
Adastra (Carneros)
Antiyal (Chile)
Chapoutier (Rhone Valley)
Nicolas Joly (Loire Valley)
Frog's Leap (Napa Valley)
Gravner (Friuli)
Araujo Estates (Napa Valley)
Hirsch (Sonoma Coast)
Jeriko(Mendocino)