Biodynamic describes an organic method of agriculture that focuses on the holistic interdependence between the soil, plants and animals. Biodynamic farmers view their land as a self-sustaining microcosm.
When I hear the word biodynamic, the term eau de vie comes to mind… the water of life. . Eau de vie refers to a type of French cognac. For me eau de vie is champagne. Champagne is full of life bios and effervescent bubbles dynamis. If champagne is a metaphor for life, then biodynamic sings its spirit.
This is why I devote this blog to biodynamic champagnes. Sure I have had organic champagnes like Korbel, sustainable champagnes like Nicolas Feuillatte. I have even visited a small growers cave in Epernay, Michael Liebart. http://www.champagne-michel-liebart.com/
Biodynamic is an awesome concept, it is complex, spiritual and intangible. Either you feel it or you do not. Understanding what is cosmic in a plant and what is earthly is vital. That alone is hard to grasp kind of the the indescribably effortless sip of champagne.
Biodynamic is as much a spiritual process as a scientific one. It marries the spiritual world with the living into an artfully ethereal agricultural process that evolves over time.
Rudolf Steiner, an Austrian scholar, developed the concept of biodynamic agriculture in a series of lectures he delivered in 1924 called ‘Spiritual Foundations for the Renewal of Agriculture.
In the last few days I have listened to some of Rudolf Steiner’s lectures and spoken with a few champagne purveyors about the biodynamic process. To all I spoke, there was a sense of fascination.
Think of soil as an ever present and breathing life into all that it surrounds. It is the mastermind behind plant growth, the brain. Think of the plant like the belly, it digests the nutrients the soil absorbs and it grows into life.
Biodynamic agriculture reflects a harmony. A delicate dance between the soil, the atmosphere, plants and animals. The soil is just as much a living organism as an animal or a plant. The health of a plant is dependent on the health of the soil. Every farm is a self containing unit, able to feed, grow, give birth and die. And this process continues in an infinite cycle. Every farm, in theory is self reliant. For example, plants can be fertilized from composting and decaying organisms found within the farm. It is only extreme case, in illness, that fertilizer must be sought from outside the farm, a self sustaining unit.
Timing is important. Plants and the soil, like any other living organism, have a natural rhythm, a cycle. There is no set schedule or agriculture calendar. Whatever plants you grow, you will become familiar with their cycle. This comes from intimately working with the soil. Using your hands or with the help of horse drawn plows.
Biodynamic agriculture helps you find your roots. As you spend time nurturing the soil, growing plants, you quiet your mind. Find one with nature and see the endless opportunity to create.
NV Larmandier-Bernier Premier Cru Vertus (Biodynamic)
