Biodynamic agriculture is an ecological and holistic approach to farming that predates codified organic farming principles. It was developed by Rudolf Steiner in the 1920s in response to the concern of farmers surrounding the future of agriculture at a point of significant change within the industry. Modernization and industrialization had revolutionized agriculture in myriad ways, but farmers themselves remained skeptical of the winds of change in a discipline rooted in centuries-old traditions.

Biodynamic farming emphasizes the spiritual interconnectedness of soil, plants, animals, and celestial rhythms. This method aims to create a harmonious and sustainable ecosystem, resulting in wines that reflect the unique terroir and are often associated with superior quality and flavor. Biodynamic wine production has gained popularity for its commitment to sustainability and the belief that it enhances the wine's character and quality.

Below are a few biodynamic producers and wines that have caught our attention!

Christophe Mignon is renowned for his ingenuity in creating elegant Champagne with Pinot Meunier. Mignon’s dedication to understanding and balancing the energy of nature lends him a unique approach to viticulture. All of his work in the cellar is done considering cosmic and terrestrial forces in accordance with the lunar calendar that he has been following for 20 years. (Even his bottle labels pay beautiful homage to the moon). Christophe believes that harmony between the root system and the vines above ground is key- he achieves this with a combination of biodynamics, phytotherapy, homeopathy and geobiology. For example: devising a machine that dilutes treatments of copper blended with valerian root and garlic to help regulate varying vineyard needs. Conscious winemaking is evident when tasting a Champagne, full of delicious nuance, by Mignon.

Christophe Mignon AdN de Meunier Brut Nature Multi-Vintage 2018/2019 ($74.99)

Chamomile, caramelized pear, almond, ginger & lemon

Christophe Mignon Rosé de Saignée 2018 ($129.99)

powerful & vinous, raspberries macerated in allspice, blood orange, dried hibiscus, white pepper

Brought to us by: Potomac Selections

-Dayna Palmer

Since Winderlea established themselves in Oregon's Dundee Hills in 2006, they have been committed to upholding the highest standards of sustainability and stewardship of the land. In 2015, they became Demeter certified after independently practicing biodynamic standards in their vineyards for years. As the sole body certifying biodynamic practices in the States, Demeter is considered the gold standard for biodynamic viticulture. This commitment to ethical treatment extends beyond the land itself. They are also one of the first five wineries worldwide to become B Corp certified, which provides publicly available ratings for companies' environmental impact, commitment to community, workers' satisfaction, and more.

Winderlea Chardonnay 2018 ($39.99)

chamomile, persimmon, lemon curd, white flowers, brioche, pear, and apple.

Winderlea Pinot Blanc 2019 (Regular: $44.99 | TWS Sale: $35.99)

white grapefruit, lime zest, toasted almond, nectarine, and pulverized stone.

Winderlea Dundee Hills Pinot Noir 2019 ($44.99)

strawberry preserves, macerated rhubarb, cherries jubilee, tarragon, fennel

Brought to us by: Free Run Wine Merchants

-Andrew Sayers

A family estate in the Southern Rhône Valley, the vines of Domaine de la Mordorée span 57 hectares spread over 38 plots with roots in 8 different communes. As of the 2020 vintage, the entirety of the estate is biodynamic (demeter certified), and has been certified organic since 2013. Biodiversity is key to the soul of Mordorée. From sustainable ecosystems in the vineyard – encouraging natural action and organic matter in the soil, naturally occurring bacteria to ward off pests and disease – to hand harvesting, right down to the fauna of the name and label: the estate’s beloved bird – the Woodcock.

Domaine de la Mordorée Lirac "La Dame Rousse" 2021

(Regular: $24.99 | TWS Sale: $19.99)

50/50 blend of Grenache and Syrah - brambly berry and spiced cherry, earth, culinary herb

Domaine de la Mordorée Lirac Blanc "La Reine des Bois" 2020

(Regular: $39.99 | TWS Sale: $31.99)

30% Grenache Blanc, 20% Clairette, 10% each: Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne, Picpoul, Divers. 10% aged in oak, 90% stainless steel, with 20% then aged in oak. White peach, nectarine, meadow flowers - a beautifully autumnal white

Brought to us by: Kysela Pere et Fils

-Lauren Loeffler

Can Ramon was a world famous winery dating back to the 14^th century but had fell into decline due to the phyloxera epidemic and the industrial revolution.  That’s when Manel Arinyo (or Mr.Bubbles) steps in and takes over the reins, renaming the property Clos Lentiscus.  After his wife had stomach cancer in 2010, Arinyo switched the vineyard practices to be fully biodynamic, foregoing any type of preservative or sulfite.  He has a small ecosystem of bees, sheep, and his horse, Ringo, to maintain the balance in his vineyard. He even uses honey produced by the bees (along with ambient yeast from his tanks) to start secondary fermentation.



Clos Lentiscus Blanc de Blanc

(Regular: $44.99 | TWS Sale: $35.99)

This rivals most champagnes, tasting like a light and airy rower-producer.  The complete opposite of other biodynamic sparkling pet-nats – this is refined and elegant tasting like white peach, pear, flowers, and salt. 

Brought to us by: Genin Selections

-Andrew Thorp