At the Wine Garden Inn, we take great pride in our commitment to biodynamic farming practices. From the lush gardens that surround our property to the carefully curated vineyards that supply our award-winning wines, every aspect of our operation is infused with a deep respect for the land and its natural cycles.
Biodynamic Farming Principles
Biodynamic agriculture is a holistic, ecological, and ethical approach to farming that goes beyond the mere exclusion of synthetic chemicals. Inspired by the teachings of Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner, biodynamics views the farm as a self-sustaining, living organism, where each element — from the soil to the animals to the celestial rhythms — is interconnected and essential to the health of the whole.
At the heart of biodynamic principles is the concept of farm individuality. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, biodynamic farmers strive to understand the unique characteristics of their land and craft customized treatments to nurture its particular needs. This might involve the use of specialized “preparations” — concoctions of herbs, minerals, and animal parts that are said to harness cosmic energies and stimulate the vital life forces within the soil.
The biodynamic calendar, which tracks the moon’s movements through the zodiac, also plays a crucial role in guiding planting, harvesting, and other vineyard tasks. Practitioners believe that aligning these activities with the rhythms of the celestial bodies helps to optimize the plants’ growth and development.
Biodynamic Certification
While the principles of biodynamics can be adopted by any farmer, our estate is certified by Demeter USA, the leading biodynamic certifying agency in the country. This rigorous process involves an in-depth inspection of our growing and processing methods, as well as adherence to a comprehensive set of standards.
To maintain our Demeter certification, we must devote at least 10% of our land to natural habitat, eschew all synthetic inputs, and incorporate a diverse array of animals into our farming system. We also meticulously track the timing of our vineyard practices according to the biodynamic calendar, carefully documenting each step of our journey.
Biodynamic Soil Management
At the core of our biodynamic approach is a deep respect for the soil, which we view as a living, breathing entity. We’ve banished the use of chemical fertilizers, opting instead for homemade compost rich in microorganisms and essential nutrients. Our cover crops and crop rotation strategies help to maintain soil fertility and prevent erosion, while the presence of livestock provides a steady supply of nutrient-dense manure.
To further nourish the soil, we regularly apply the biodynamic preparations, such as Preparation 500 (made from the horn of a healthy cow) and Preparation 501 (a paste of ground quartz). These concoctions are said to stimulate microbial activity and enhance the soil’s capacity to absorb and utilize vital minerals.
Biodynamic Vineyard Management
In the vineyards, our biodynamic practices extend far beyond the soil. We carefully prune and train our vines to promote optimal sap flow and fruit development, timing these tasks according to the phases of the moon. Our integrated pest management strategies rely on the introduction of beneficial insects and the strategic placement of compost teas to ward off unwanted pests and diseases.
When it comes time to harvest, our estate-grown produce is hand-picked with the utmost care, ensuring that each grape or vegetable reaches its full potential. This meticulous attention to detail carries through to the winery, where we harness the power of indigenous yeasts and minimize the use of additives to craft wines that are a true reflection of our unique terroir.
The Bounty of Biodynamic Produce
The results of our biodynamic approach are evident in the exceptional quality and vibrant flavors of our estate-grown produce. Our gourmet breakfasts feature an abundance of nutrient-dense vegetables, fruits, and herbs, each bursting with the essence of the land. And our curated food and wine pairings showcase the remarkable synergy between our biodynamically-grown grapes and the seasonal delights from our on-site gardens.
But the benefits of biodynamics extend far beyond the plate. Studies have shown that produce grown using these methods can be richer in antioxidants, vitamins, and other essential nutrients. And by focusing on closed-loop, regenerative systems, we’re able to minimize our environmental footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future for our community.
Traceability and Transparency
Transparency is a cornerstone of our biodynamic practices, and we are committed to providing our guests with a deep understanding of the journey their food and wine have taken. From the soil testing we conduct to the detailed records we keep on each vineyard block and garden bed, we strive to offer complete traceability, allowing our guests to connect more deeply with the origins of their culinary delights.
Our biodynamic certification through Demeter USA is a testament to this commitment, and we proudly display the iconic “Demeter” seal on all of our wine labels and produce packaging. For those seeking an even more immersive experience, we also offer guided wine education tours and garden walks, where guests can witness firsthand the dedication and passion that goes into every aspect of our biodynamic operation.
The Essence of the Vine
As we continue to nurture our biodynamically-grown gardens and vineyards, we are constantly in awe of the profound connection between the land, the plants, and the people who steward this remarkable place. Each vintage, each harvest, is a testament to the resilience and vitality of our biodynamic ecosystem, a living, breathing embodiment of the essence of the vine.
We invite you to come and experience this journey with us, to savor the fruits of our labor and to connect with the land in a way that truly nourishes the body, mind, and spirit. Welcome to the Wine Garden Inn, where the path from vine to vintage is paved with intention, passion, and a deep respect for the natural world.