I am always surprised at how much discussion and angst the topic of biodynamic wine brings. So I decided I wanted to do my part at looking at bio-dynamics. How about definitions first before getting into philosophy.
Bio = life.
Dynamics = related to physical force or energy, motion, pattern of growth or change, variation in intensity.
So biodynamics, in my mind separate from Rudolph Steiner’s ideas, is a look at the cycles or changes in life. The dynamics of change.
Perhaps if I hadn’t apprenticed to a biodynamic mini-farm decades ago, I, too would have my reservations and condemnations of “weird” practices. However what we were able to produce, rather what the BD garden could produce, in quantity and quality was amazing.
What I’ve witnessed when I’ve met winemakers intent on biodynamic practices – they have a commitment to the living land and its legacies. Perhaps they also have a more spiritual inclination, not just with their winemaking and land tending.
I see the argument by anti-BD folks is much like those who argue against God or religion – faith and God are woo-woo.
That the land and its resident critters are seen as a sacred sanctuary where grapes are grown tells me that BD reveres all life. The rituals can be seen as moments in time to give back and give thanks to the earth for all we are given. That wine growing practices are geared to the cycles of the moon are simply reflections from the old Farmer’s Almanac. Tending according to the dynamics of nature. Seems simple and wise.
And some biodynamic wines reveal hearts like this Quintessa 2001 – what could that mean?