Organic wines are becoming increasingly popular among those seeking a sustainable and natural alternative to conventional wines. But what are the characteristics that make them different? In this article, we’ll explore what “organic wine” truly means, how it’s produced, and the benefits of this choice for both the environment and the consumer.
What does organic wine mean?
An organic wine is produced according to strict regulations that prohibit the use of chemical pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Additionally, organic winemaking imposes limits on the use of sulfites and additives.
To obtain organic certification, a winery must follow specific protocols set by recognized regulatory bodies, such as:
- EU Organic Farming (for Europe)
- USDA Organic (for USA)
- CCPB, ICEA, Ecocert (for international certifications)
Discover Grapur, our collection of organic and vegan wines, product from grapes grown using sustainable farming practices.
How is organic wine made?
Organic wine production follows natural methods to ensure both quality and environmental respect. Key aspects include:
Cultivation without chemical pesticides: Natural fertilizers and sustainable agricultural practices are employed.
Hand harvesting: Many producers choose to hand-pick the grapes to preserve their quality.
Controlled winemaking: The use of sulfites is minimized, and non-natural additives are avoided.
How to recognize an organic wine?
Organic wines are easily identifiable by the certification logos on the label. Some of the most common include:
The European Union Green Leaf (EU Organic)
USDA Organic Logo (in the United States)
Certifications from independent organizations such as ICEA and Ecocert
Checking these certifications guarantees that the wine is genuinely produced according to organic standards.
Difference between organic wine and biodynamic wine
Organic and biodynamic farming are two agricultural methods that, while sharing some principles, have key differences.
Organic farming emphasizes practices that respect the environment, promote sustainability, and conserve natural resources. It avoids the use of chemical pesticides, herbicides, and growth regulators, instead favoring natural fertilizers. The only exception is the regulated use of copper and sulfur to control fungal diseases.
Biodynamic farming, a variant of organic agriculture, adopts a more holistic approach by incorporating spiritual elements, such as following the lunar calendar. This method seeks to create a self-sustaining ecosystem where the land, animals, and plants interact in perfect harmony. Animals contribute to the natural fertilization of the soil, while the land provides nourishment for them. Although it shares many principles with organic farming, biodynamics imposes stricter and more detailed management practices, with a stronger emphasis on spirituality and the natural cycles of agricultural processes.
Are organic wines better?
Recent studies confirm that organic and biodynamic wines offer superior quality. Two studies, conducted by Prof. Magali Delmas (UCLA) and Prof. Olivier Gergaud (Kedge Business School), analyzed over 200,000 wine reviews and found that wines from organic viticulture consistently received higher ratings from independent critics compared to conventional wines.
The first study, published in 2016, examined 74,000 Californian wines, rated by experts such as Robert Parker and Wine Enthusiast. The results showed that organic wines, even without official certification, received higher scores. In 2021, the two professors extended their research to another 128,000 French wines, analyzed by critics such as Gault Millau and Bettane Desseauve. Once again, the results favored organic wines, which stood out for their superior taste and quality.
Organic wines are an excellent choice for those looking for a more natural and environmentally friendly product. With their growing availability in the market, it’s easier than ever to find high-quality organic wines that offer an authentic and sustainable experience. How about trying a glass of Grapur?
Discover Grapur
Explore our exclusive collection of organic and vegan wines, crafted from grapes grown using sustainable farming practices. Each bottle delivers an authentic, natural experience brimming with flavor.
