What is an organic wine and how is it different from the conventional?
All wine comes from natural sources, but not all wines are considered organic. Consumer demand has made this a growing category; consumers concerned about quality, traceability and the environment.
Just like organic food has gained popularity in the past few years, the traditional wine industry had to open itself for the possibility of producing organic wines, and many have dedicated time and effort to broaden their portfolio and not let customers down.
What is an organic wine?
Organic wine is made with grapes grown organically and certified as such; this means that no synthetic chemicals have been used, neither on the vineyard nor in the cellar. Organic growth also includes an eco-friendly management of the vineyard and care for natural resources. For example, the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers are not allowed.
How is the organic wine produced?
According to Ecocert for a wine to be labeled organic, it has to comply with these requirements:
- Grapes that are organic certified
- Fermentation and other manufaturing processes must be free of any genetically modified organisms (GMO)
- Winemaking and aging facilities must be audited and considered fit for the management of organic matter; meaning they must be free of contaminating substances.
- The addition of selected yeast is allowed, if necessary, but it should also be certified organic.
- All substances and materials that are in contact with the wine (for example, corks and bottles) must be free of any contaminating agents and be made of natural materials.
What does it all mean?
It means that when you open a bottle of organic wine, you enjoy a wine with a small chemical intervention, in the vineyard and in the cellar. It means that you open a wine that respects the environment in its integrity: fauna, flora, microorganisms, water resources; and pays attention to nature’s changes and cycles. The organic wine is the most honest expression of a terroir, since it features its raw characteristics and specific care, with zero chemical intervention.