I have long been engaged with topics related to ecological, biodynamic, and permaculture-based systems. My reason for this is quite simple and logical: I want to devote proper attention to environmental protection and to the current methods of viticulture, as I believe this is the only sustainable path to preserving biodiversity and the health of our soils and environment.
In the following, I would like to present the importance and origins of organic viticulture, as well as the methods wineries use today in vineyard management.
This will be followed by an introduction to biodynamic farming: its advantages, disadvantages, and challenges. I also conducted an interview for one of my papers with Gernot Heinrich (Weingut Heinrich), who shared his experiences with me. Finally, I will compare organic and biodynamic cultivation methods to illustrate their differences and points of connection.
The Origins of Organic Viticulture:
Alongside so-called integrated viticulture, organic (or organic-minded) grape growing is gaining increasing ground. While both approaches aim for an environmentally friendly perspective, organic farming places far greater emphasis on sustainable, chemical-free cultivation.
. Gróf Degenfeld
The roots of organic viticulture (also known as organic grape growing) reach back to the early 20th century. Its pioneer was Rudolf Steiner, who later developed his ideas further in the direction of biodynamic agriculture—a method I will discuss in more detail later.
Principles of Organic Viticulture
The primary goal of organic farming is to produce in harmony with the natural functioning of ecosystems, without the use of synthetic chemicals, and in a sustainable manner. In this approach, special emphasis is placed on protecting soil life, maintaining biodiversity, and safeguarding both the environment and consumer health.
Implementation of practice
Organic plant protection is not only a standalone component of organic viticulture, but is also closely linked to all of its practices, including soil management and fertilization. In terms of spraying, only biological, plant-based, mineral, or naturally occurring inorganic plant protection and care products may be used. These include preparations containing alcohol or paraffin oil. Additionally, substances that enhance the vine’s natural resistance—especially against fungal diseases—are also applied. The use of herbicides, synthetic fertilizers, or other synthetic pesticides is strictly prohibited. The European Union regulates this area rigorously and maintains a specific list of substances permitted in organic grape production.
Special attention is paid to soil life and its functions. Several farms use cover crops, especially on sloping areas, to protect against erosion while helping to preserve biodiversity. To enrich soil life, compost, organic manure, and other soil-friendly cultivation practices are used, so that they do not harm the vines. Beneficial organisms are also involved, such as birds or insects that destroy other harmful organisms.
Organic viticulture is now widespread in Hungary, and more and more people are choosing this path. This is despite the fact that global warming is making it increasingly difficult to operate vineyards sustainably, especially when only natural plant protection solutions are available.
Advantages and challenges
Organic farming is a very complex system that includes not only food production, but also the management of the entire farm. Its aim is to apply the best practices in environmental and climate protection, preserve natural resources and support biodiversity.
The production rules are based on natural materials and processes that meet the growing demand of consumers for healthier, more environmentally friendly products. Thanks to this, organic farming plays a dual role:
- on the one hand, it serves the market of buyers looking for organic products,
- on the other hand, it contributes to the protection of the environment, animal welfare and the development of rural areas.
It is also true for organic products, such as grapes from organic farming, that strict health and environmental protection rules must be observed. These high standards contribute greatly to the excellent quality of the products. The European Commission highlighted in 2009 that “organic farming is one of the official quality systems of the Union” – such as the geographical indication or the system of traditional specialities guaranteed. It is important to note that processed organic, in-conversion and non-organic products must be clearly separated from each other. If a product is stored or prepared that does not come from organic production, the organization must be informed.
Main eco-certifications and their requirements
In EU and in Hungary ONLY
HU-ÖKO-01 – Biokontroll Hungária Inspection and Certification Nonprofit Ltd.
Certificate of products from organic farming.
You can receive products that have been produced in accordance with the conditions set out in the law. Compliance is verified by independent organizations, and continuous inspections ensure that consumers receive a product of truly organic origin.
Hungária Öko Garancia Kft.
Hungária Öko Garancia also deals with Eu organic control and certification, and also deals with quality assurance standards. In contrast to Bio Kontroll, the company allows the conversion of certain areas to organic without having to convert the entire area. This can be an advantage for those who are just starting out and do not want to convert the entire area to organic grape production for some reason.
Demeter - Biodynamic
Demeter International is an officially recognized global organization that certifies biodynamic farming. Currently, more than 156 thousand hectares of biodynamic farming belong to them. Demeter is the oldest such trademark (founded in 1928 by Dr. Rudolf Steiner) and exclusively designates products from biodynamic farming. Biodynamic farming follows a holistic approach that goes far beyond simple organic farming.
In my next article, I will present biodynamic farming through the eyes and experiences of a certified professional.
