The debate over whether organic food is better than conventionally raised food continues! We all know that organic items can cost more money, but the organic goods market is growing at a vast, steady pace and many people are willing to pay more for foods and products which have been grown without damaging pesticides and fertilizers. In foods such as “soft fruits”, the surface of fruit is more penetrable to chemicals and chances are when we eat such fruits, those chemicals are absorbed by the body.
Wine, no doubt is one of the world’s most beloved beverages (especially in my house). So it’s no surprise that a variety of organic wines are now available for us to choose from.
Vinos Pinol 2005 Sacra Natura Organic Red – Red Wine
Why choose organic wine? Wines that are produced with organic grapes follow strict criteria. Organic foods and wines must be certified before they can be labeled “organic”. Traditional wines are grown with grapes that are usually heavily sprayed with chemicals and pesticides. Organic wines are not sprayed with chemicals and are believed to have greater health benefits and brighter more vibrant tastes. Organic wineries do not add artificial flavors such as oak chips to their wines, and use very simple wine making techniques. Organic wines do contain low levels of natural sulfites, but not added synthetic sulfites. This helps reduce that “sinus-type” headache induced by high sulfite levels some people experience.
It should also be mentioned that the practice of biodynamics has also become popular. Biodynamic Agriculture is a form of organic cultivation developed by Rudolf Steiner (1816-1925). The principles of biodynamics are based on energetic, mystical and practical philosophies, which include understanding the ecological and spiritual in nature. Winemakers claim to have tried biodynamic methods and found immediate improvements to their vineyards. Critics claim that these improvements would have happened with just “organic” practices that did not involve the mysticism of biodynamics. Nonetheless, there is an upsurge of interest among Winemakers worldwide converting to biodynamic principles.
Ey 2004 Vigne d’en Gaume Grenache – Red Wine
When you buy organic, or biodynamic wine, you are doing more then buying a healthier wine, you are helping change the way you live in the future. Organic and biodynamic wine is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water that enhance the environmental foot print for future generations to come.
My organic pick of the week. Good price and delicious taste. Great with a cheese plate and the company of good friends.
De Martino 2007 Organic Sauvignon Blanc – White Wine
{ 0 comments… add one now }