Sustainable, Organic, Biodynamic, Oh My!

What makes a winery sustainable, organic or even biodynamic? And better yet, what do these terms really mean? This type of terminology can be very confusing and is often used in the wrong context.

Sustainable
In defining sustainability, I turn to our local experts, the Central Coast Vineyard Team (CCVT). The premise of their definition rests on the idea that, “we must meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Therefore, the concept of stewardship in environmental health, economic profitability and social equity are key components of sustainability. In sustainable farming, low toxin pesticides can be used and earth derived alternatives are highly encouraged. Such practices include planting cover crops in the vineyard to attract the “good bugs” that eat the “bad bugs” and encouraging hawks and owls to nest near the vineyard to scare away smaller birds and rodents. To be a member of the CCVT, the only requirement is to pay the dues; no tests on the land are required. Therefore, sustainability is more of a good faith practice agreement between the stewards of the land, the workers and the land itself. For a list of CCVT members, click here.

Organic
In order to be certified organic, a vineyard must meet certain specifications outlined by the USDA. Organically grown grapes are those that have been grown without the use of synthetic or chemically altered pesticides or fertilizers. The process of retaining a certification is often grueling and expensive. Therefore, there are many vineyards currently using organic farming practices that do not have the desire of obtaining a certification, meanwhile others in the area are slowly gaining theirs. Recently, Castoro Winery in Paso Robles received an organic certification for their vineyards. For a list of other organic vineyards, click here.

Biodynamic 
Biodynamic farming takes organics to a whole different level. It is very difficult, labor intensive and takes the entire ecosystem into consideration. The focus of biodynamics is on regenerative versus degenerative farming approaches, or in simpler terms, replenishes the earth’s resources instead of depleting them. Practices include planting cover crops between rows to fix nitrogen levels and prevent erosion, using animal manure and herbs to create homeopathic fertilizers and even relying on planetary movements to regulate the timeline of vineyard activity. Since biodynamic farming is so hard to follow, some pick and choose. But, for those who follow the process religiously, there is a certification through Demeter USA. Some local biodynamic vineyards include Presidio Vineyard & Winery, Gypsy Canyon Winery, Demetria Estate Winery and Beckman Winery. For a full list, click here.