September 18-24, 2023, is Organic Wine Week, which was created to raise awareness of the importance and quality of organic wine.

Organic wine is growing in popularity, with over 10% of New Zealand vineyards now organically certified and BioGro certifying over 98% of those vineyards. But what makes a wine organic, and are organic wines better than conventional? 

What makes a wine organic?

What sets organic wine apart from conventional wine is the absence of synthetic chemicals, such as pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides, applied throughout the grape-growing process. 

Instead, organic producers believe that healthy soil produces healthy plants and that a balanced ecosystem requires minimal chemical intervention.

Furthermore, the winemaking process of organic wine avoids excess additives and preservatives, allowing the wine to express its true character and terroir. 

To be certified organic, a wine must include 95% organic ingredients.

By prioritising ecological balance, organic winemakers aim to produce wine that reflects the purity of the soil, climate, and environment, providing consumers with a sustainable and authentic drinking experience.

Is organic wine better than non-organic wine?

Organic wine is undeniably better than non-organic wine.

Grapes are one of the most sprayed fruits in the world. They have been on the EWG "Dirty Dozen" list for over a decade. Many current pesticides are known or suspected carcinogens. This means that a conventional wine can be a chemical cocktail.

Organic wine is pesticide-free and a good choice for people who want to purchase a sustainable product.

Organic vineyards prioritise soil health and biodiversity through sustainable farming practices, fostering a more balanced and resilient ecosystem. Moreover, organic winemaking avoids the use of artificial additives and excessive sulphur dioxide, resulting in wines that are less likely to cause headaches or allergic reactions. 

Ultimately, the commitment to organic practices safeguards our health, protects the environment, and enhances the taste and enjoyment of the wine.

Does organic wine have sulfites?

Organic wine contains sulfites, although in significantly lower levels compared to non-organic wines. 

Sulfites are a natural byproduct of the fermentation process, which occurs when yeast converts sugar into alcohol. Sulfur dioxide, one type of sulfite, is commonly used in winemaking to prevent oxidation and preserve the freshness and flavour of the wine.

 However, organic winemakers adhere to strict regulations that limit the amount of added sulfites. While conventional wines may contain higher levels, organic wines aim to minimise sulfite additions by relying on alternative winemaking techniques and sourcing high-quality grapes. 

Is biodynamic wine the same as organic wine?

No.

Biodynamic wine is often mistakenly assumed to be the same as organic wine; however, there are differences between the two.

While both production methods prioritise sustainable practices and minimal use of synthetic chemicals, the main difference is in their underlying principles. 

Organic production focuses on avoiding pesticides, herbicides, and other chemical inputs, as well as an emphasis on soil health. 

Biodynamic production takes a holistic approach that incorporates spiritual and cosmological beliefs. It follows a strict agricultural calendar based on lunar cycles and emphasises the interconnectedness of the vineyard ecosystem. Biodynamic production also employs unique preparations, including compost teas and herbal sprays. 

So, while organic and biodynamic production share a commitment to the environment, biodynamic practices diverge by incorporating spiritual aspects and specific celestial rhythms into their production methods.

Is organic wine and natural wine the same thing?

No.

Natural and organic wine are often used interchangeably, but there are differences. Organic wine is made from grapes grown in accordance with organic farming practices.

Natural wine is made using minimal intervention, with little-to-no additives, and without synthetic chemicals in the vineyard or winery. It focuses on allowing the grapes and fermentation process to express themselves naturally.  

While natural and organic wines prioritise sustainability and environmental consciousness in New Zealand, only organic wines can be officially certified. France is the only country worldwide to have a natural wine definition.

So, although there may be some overlap, natural and organic wine should not be considered the same.

Do organic wines have a specific taste?

Organic wines, like their conventional counterparts, come in a range of flavours and aromas influenced by factors such as grape variety, region, and winemaking techniques. 

While organic farming practices focus on reducing or eliminating synthetic pesticides and fertilisers - it does not necessarily result in a distinctive taste. 

The taste profile of an organic wine is more likely to be influenced by the grape varietal and terroir, as well as the skill and preferences of the winemaker.
Organic wines range from light and crisp to bold and complex, offering diverse flavours, including fruity, floral, earthy, or mineral notes. Ultimately, the specific taste of an organic wine is not predetermined solely by its organic status but rather by a combination of factors that contribute to the unique characteristics of each wine.

Is organic wine better for the environment?

Organic wine is undeniably better for the environment.

Firstly, organic vineyards avoid synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilisers that harm the soil, water, and wildlife. 

Using sustainable farming practices, organic winemakers ensure biodiversity conservation and pollution reduction.

Organic production methods prioritise soil health through cover cropping, composting, and crop rotation, which increases soil fertility, reduces erosion and increases carbon sequestration.

These methods contribute to the health of the vineyard's ecosystem and enhance its resilience to climate change. 

Lastly, organic wine production often incorporates renewable energy sources and minimises water consumption, reducing the overall carbon footprint. Organic wine production embraces a holistic approach that harmonises with nature, safeguarding the environment for future generations.

You can find all winemakers organically certified by BioGro here.

Please remember to use alcohol responsibly and don't drink if you're under the age of 18 or while pregnant.

Responsible drinking includes:

1. Knowing what a standard drink looks like.

2. Not mixing alcohol with prescription medication or other drugs.

3. Avoiding driving or other high-risk activities.

4. Not drinking alone or with strangers.

5. Not drinking on an empty stomach.