A Biodynamic Celebration

 “The idea that in farming we are really exploiting the land is quite correct. Indeed, we cannot help doing so. With all that we send out into the world from our farms, we are taking forces away from the earth – nay, even from the air. These forces must somehow be restored.” (Rudolf Steiner, The Agriculture Course)

2024 marks 100 years of biodynamic farming and, for the first time ever, Estate Manager Alex is hosting a night-time tour of the vineyard under the full moon!

Whilst many of our followers know that Albury is an organic vineyard, not everyone is aware that we've actually gone one step further and are one of the only vineyards in the UK to follow biodynamic principles on the vineyard.

Biodynamics excludes the use of artificial chemicals and encourages soil fertility and plant health by using compost teas and biodynamic preparations. For example, each winter we bury cow horns filled with manure on the vineyard. They are dug up in the spring and the contents sprayed on the vineyard to improve fertility.

We've seen first-hand in France and Australia the difference between the quality of soil on biodynamic vineyards and that on chemically sprayed ones. It's the difference between living and dead soils. Many of the great vineyards and wineries around the world are convinced by the biodynamic approach, including Cristal from Louis Roederer, Domaine Leflaive and le Roy in Burgundy, Coulee de Serant in the Loire, Beaux Freres in Oregon and Hensche in Australia.

Does it make a difference? Well, if you ask us, biodynamic practices in the vineyard encourage a natural harmony between the earth, the vine and the cosmos as nature intended, without the need to use systemic chemicals. We believe that this results in a more naturally healthy bio-diverse and sustainable vineyard, producing better quality fruit and ultimately better quality wine, with a unique sense or place or terroir. 

Join us on the evening of 22nd June to find out all about biodynamics, enjoy a night-time tour of the vineyard with Alex, and celebrate 100 years of biodynamic farming with a toast under the full moon! 

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