WEEDING THROUGH THE WORLD OF ORGANIC WINES
Organic food’s popularity has exploded over the last few years, so finding organic wine is no longer a hunting expedition. Now, wine stores have shelves filled with choices of organic wines, and you can even join wine clubs that will deliver them to your door. But alas, the beauty of more available organics comes with inevitable confusion.
Can you taste that hard work?
You might see something on the label referring to grapes grown using regenerative farming practices. What does that mean? Implementing regenerative farming means the soil is a priority; farmers ensure it’s nutrient-rich and the surrounding ecosystem is diverse and supported without synthetic chemicals. Wine is the ecosystem’s health, and the fermentation process incorporates natural yeasts and preservatives.
Another term you might hear regarding organic farming practices is biodynamic. Like regenerative farming, great care is invested in enhancing the soil and the entire ecosystem. However, biodynamic vineyards look at their land more spiritually and holistically, often using planetary and lunar cycles to guide planting and harvesting.
Straight from the vine!
A wine must be made from organically grown grapes containing zero synthetic additives to be labeled as fully organic. Instead of a wine label saying “organic,” it will often state that the wine was “made with organic grapes” -- a category with less rigorous regulations than fully organic wines doe.
But are organic wines better? Many experts believe that organic wines aren’t just better for our planet, but they’re also better for our health. Besides having no synthetic additives or pesticides, organic wines often have higher levels of polyphenols and heart-supporting resveratrol, which are believed to have significant health benefits.
To add even more to the confusion, some experts believe that organic practices don’t make a difference, and it’s wiser to buy a non-organic wine from a small vineyard than an organic one from a huge corporation. So, in the end, it’s good to explore, try new things, find what you like, and enjoy!
Check out Boston Winery’s events calendar to learn more about wines and winemaking. We have exciting tastings and pairings all month long.
