And the wider picture..
Aside from the actual differences in the vineyard, this system inevitably has a commercial impact on the wine both in terms of marketing and appeal of the finished product. Most wineries are essentially commercial ventures, the end goal being to sell their wine and make the winery a viable operation. More sustainable winegrowing practices, particularly biodynamic regimes, allow nature to work as it wishes resulting in lower yields and thus, to some degree, resolving the current problems of overproduction in the global wine market. It encourages the production of more terroir driven wines that are more in line with a 'natural' product. As we become more environmentally and socially aware I believe we will place increasing importance on products that are free from toxins and respect the environment. Therefore, from a marketing perspective, there is an argument that promotion of organic or biodynamic practices may increase the product appeal and increasingly influence buying decisions. Niki Moser talks about the difference in his wines 'The wines have more personality and more minerality….no more candy aromas, more elegance' all in all a better, higher quality wine although he goes on to highlight that they evolve more slowly which can be difficult in the immediate nature of the wine markets today.

Talking to producers such as Vanya Cullen (Margaret River) and Niki who are both firm believers of biodynamics I am completely smitten and find them truly inspirational (and their vineyards look fabulous). At the same time many excellent viticulturalists follow a number of the practical aspects of this regime but are reluctant to subscribe to it entirely.

Chris and I have had lengthy debates about this subject but what do you think? Can you tell the difference? Does this issue influence your wine buying? Have your say here sales@reservewines.co.uk