Some historical background of biodynamics
Rudolph Steiner (1861-1925) is considered to be the father of Biodynamics. He was an Austrian philosopher and scientist, considered to be the father of “antroposophy”
- In his 8 lectures and 5 discussions in the book “Agriculture” he sets the laying principles of Biodynamics
- He is sure that chemical fertilizers would lead to the decline of soil, plant and animal health
He considers the farm as a single self-sustaining organism that thrives through biodiversity. The integration of crops and livestock and the creation of a closed-loop system of fertility, cosmic and earthly influences can help the farm system
Principles of biodynamics
- Biodynamic Viticulture is based on BIODYNAMIC PREPARATIONS which are natural and organic compounds that are used to allow the correct growth of the plants
- By observing the astronomic movements and their effect on starts and soil, a correct relationship between plants and Earth can be established
- There are NO official disciplinarians so a biodynamic product is produced according to Steiner’s principles but without a conspicuous and official law regulation
- There are two certification systems for Biodynamic products: DEMETER (Certifying system born in 1927 that nowadays covers 43 countries) and BIODYVIN (a system created in 1995 by 148 winegrowers from France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Switzerland)
Learn more about Biodynamic Wine Farming here: