ORGANIC, HVE, BIODYNAMIC, NATURE…?

DIFFERENT TYPES OF WINES

ORGANIC, HEV, BIODYNAMIC, NATURAL

At the heart of the era of “better consumption”, environmentally friendly wines are attracting growing interest among wine lovers. When you taste a glass of wine, you taste more than just fermented grapes. It’s a terroir, a climate, an appellation…

This is why more and more wine lovers are turning to these labels for an authentic taste experience. If you're wondering what sets these winemaking practices apart, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll explore these exciting, alternative wine production methods in depth, answering questions like: Why switch to one of these practices? What are their differences ? Fasten your seat belts, we are about to dive into the complex world of wines that respect the environment and nature.

WHAT IS AN ORGANIC WINE?

An ORGANIC wine is a wine produced from grapes grown using environmentally friendly agricultural practices. This means that the vineyards use organic growing methods that exclude the use of any chemical pesticides, synthetic fertilizers and many other chemical and/or aggressive products. Winegrowers who work on this type of cultivation generally favor disease control methods.

In addition, during winemaking, ORGANIC wines are limited in terms of chemical additives, thus favoring more natural processes. Sulfites, which are preservatives commonly used in wine production, are also kept to a minimum, although their presence varies depending on each country's regulations.

The main objective of ORGANIC wines is therefore to preserve biodiversity, maintain soil health and produce quality wines while minimizing their impact on the environment.

WHAT IS A WINE FROM HVE (High Environmental Value) AGRICULTURE?

HVE wines go beyond ORGANIC agriculture by integrating environmentally friendly practices, such as preserving water resources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. They are certified by the French State and guarantee a limited environmental impact. However, they are authorized to use phytosanitary products, contrary to the ORGANIC label which prohibits it.

WHAT IS A WINE FROM BIODYNAMIC AGRICULTURE?

Biodynamics is a holistic agricultural approach based on the principles of Rudolf Steiner. Biodynamic winemakers view the vine, the soil and the entire vineyard as an interconnected ecosystem. They use natural preparations and respect lunar cycles to guide their wine activities.

WHAT IS A NATURAL WINE?

Like organic wines, natural wines come from vines worked and certified in organic or biodynamic agriculture. These methods provide a first level of guarantee which is: No synthetic phytosanitary products are used in the vineyard.

Compared to organic wines, natural wines go even further in the quest for purity and authenticity. Firstly, the harvest is entirely done by hand to guarantee the quality of the grapes. They are produced with minimal human intervention and chemical additives. Unlike conventional wines, natural wines avoid any use of enzymes, selected yeasts and clarifying agents. Instead, native yeasts that are naturally present on grapes are often used for fermentation.

On the winemaking side, natural wines must not contain any input other than sulfur. It is still important to point out that natural wines currently do not have any label or certification. It's purely a matter of trust between you and the winemaker.

WHY OPT FOR ONE OF THESE PRACTICES AS A WINEMAKER?

• Respect for the environment: By opting for ORGANIC, HEV, BIODYNAMIC or NATURAL wines, you support environmentally friendly agricultural practices. Preserving biodiversity, reducing the carbon footprint and preserving natural resources are at the heart of these approaches.

• Quality and Authenticity: These wines offer an authentic sensory experience. By minimizing chemical and technical interventions, the natural characteristics of the grape and the terroir are highlighted, which often results in purer and expressive wines.

• Well-being: By limiting your exposure to pesticide residues and chemicals, you contribute to your own well-being and that of those around you. Naturally produced wines tend to be purer and less likely to cause headaches or allergic reactions.

CONCRETE DIFFERENCES

Chemical Inputs:

ORGANIC wines : Prohibited.
HVE wines : Reduced to a minimum.
Biodynamic Wines : Avoid chemical inputs.
Natural Wines : Avoid chemical inputs.

Calendar and Spirituality:

ORGANIC wines : No specific link.
HVE wines : No specific link.
Biodynamic Wines : Follow the lunar calendar and cosmic rhythms.
Natural Wines : No specific link.

Use of Sulphites:

ORGANIC wines : Authorized in small quantities.
HVE wines : Authorized in small quantities.
Biodynamic Wines : Allowed in small quantities, but often avoided.
Natural Wines : Avoided or in very small quantities.

CONCLUSION

The choice between ORGANIC, HVE, biodynamic or natural wines depends on your personal preferences in terms of taste, ethics and commitment to the environment. Each of these practices offers a unique approach to viticulture, reflecting the diversity and richness of the wine world. So the next time you enjoy a glass of wine, take the time to appreciate not only its taste, but also the history and values ​​behind each sip. Health and cheers! 🍷