Harvesting with the Cosmos

Imagine planning your harvest by the phases of the moon or burying cow horns filled with manure to enrich your vineyard soil. While it might sound like something from a fantasy novel, these practices are the reality for biodynamic winemakers.

Lunar CyclesThe Cosmic Calendar

Central to biodynamic farming is the use of a lunar calendar to guide vineyard activities. This calendar divides days into categories like “fruit days,” ideal for harvesting, or “leaf days,” better suited for watering. The belief is that the moon’s gravitational pull influences the sap flow in vines, much like it affects ocean tides.

The Mystical Preparations

Biodynamic farming involves unique preparations to enhance soil and plant health, including:

  • Cow Horn Manure (Preparation 500): Manure is packed into cow horns, buried in the soil, and left to ferment through the winter. The resulting compost is diluted and sprayed to enrich the soil.
  • Silica Preparation (501): Ground quartz crystals are mixed with water and sprayed on vines to enhance photosynthesis and grape quality.

Mystical Preparation for Biodynamic Winemaking - Cow manure packed into cow horns and silica preparation to spray on vines.A Global Phenomenon

Biodynamic winemaking has gained traction worldwide, with prominent vineyards in France, Italy, the United States, and beyond adopting these practices. High-profile wineries like Domaine Leroy in Burgundy and Domaine Zind-Humbrecht in Alsace have credited biodynamics with improving vineyard health and wine quality.

The Challenges of Biodynamics

This labor-intensive method requires meticulous attention to detail. Farmers must anticipate challenges like pests or diseases without relying on synthetic chemicals, often spending more time in the vineyard to ensure everything stays in balance.

Skepticism vs. Results

Filling cow horns with cow manure for use in biodynamic winemakingCritics often question the scientific basis of biodynamic practices, labeling some elements as mystical. However, even skeptics acknowledge the exceptional quality of wines produced using these methods, attributing it to the winemakers’ dedication and craftsmanship.

Why It Matters

For many biodynamic winemakers, it’s about more than just great wine. It’s a commitment to sustainability, a respect for the earth, and a belief that farming in harmony with nature produces the best results—both for the vineyard and for the planet.