Organic & Biodynamic

What is Organic wine you ask? The most basic definition is wine made from organically-farmed grapes.  That means grapes grown without the use of any artificial chemical fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides. 

Organic does not necessarily mean sulfite-free.  Because sulfites are a naturally occurring by-product of fermentation, you should assume that all wines contain sulfites, unless they are labeled sulfite-free.  Many winemakers also add sulfites to their wine as a preservative, or to halt the fermentation process.  Some organic wines may be labeled NSA (No Sulfites Added), which means that no additional sulfites have been added, but that naturally-occurring sulfites are still present. 

Biodynamic wine is organic wine that takes things one step further.  Based on the ideas of Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner, biodynamic wine-making involves an ecological, spiritual component.  Biodynamic wineries view the vineyards and the whole wine-making process as a self-sustaining ecosystem.

Vegan Wine is wine made without the use of any animal products.  Not all vegan wines are organic, and vice-versa.  

We have a great selection of organic, biodynamic and vegan wines from all over the world, priced from $10 and up.  A couple that we especially love:

Frey Vineyards NV "Natural Red," Mendocino, California, $12 This is a great everyday table red that's medium-bodied, fruity and easy-drinking.  A blend of Zinfandel, Carignane, and Syrah grapes, this wine is organic, sulfite-free and vegan.

Badger Mountain Vineyards 2009 NSA Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, Washington, $16 This mouth-watering unoaked Chardonnay is bright, medium-full bodied, and full of tropical fruit flavors.   

 Return to Top


Last Updated July 16, 2010