Drink To Your Health Organically

Recently there have been a number of articles that address the growing interest in organic wines. But to the average wine consumer, there are still questions as to be meaning of the word organic? Herein is the real problem in the short term: there really isn't much exact information getting to the average wine consumer on what organic wine means and what are the options.
I recently conducted a casual test. I went to a large wine retailer, in a non- confrontational way, and simple ask them to define organic wine in simple terms. The most common answer was that organic meant the wine was more natural. But, they really could not define what made the wine natural. This is a real problem for wine producers and ultimately the consumer. Most people think the organic label applies only to a natural way to grow grapes. In reality the organic concept applies to winery production as well as grape production. Without a real understanding of what organic means, the industry is able to put labels on wines with various self determined meanings and self monitoring.
To get a real bottle of certified organic wine, consumers need to become familiar with what "organic" means and the process it takes to become certified organic. Further, a 100% organic wine must come from organically grown grapes and the juice must be processed according to stipulated standards. In the U.S. there are two certifying organizations that authored real organic regulations: Demeter-USA (1985) and USDA-National Organic Program (2002). These are uniform documented certification programs.
But, certified organic is not immune to clever games of semantics. Winery marketing departments will use such words as: Sustainable Practices, From Organic Grapes, or Natural. These definitions do not carry any legal authority and are pretty much self defined by any number of trade organizations.
Demeter-USA's patented certification approach recognizes a farm (vineyard for our discussion) as a self contained living organism, known around the world as Biodynamic Certified. This certification dictates a stringent practice of grape production that basically says no synthetic pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers may be brought into the farm environment. Only unaltered natural products produced from within the farm may be used to produce grapes. Biodynamic certification even dictates how much of the farm/vineyard must be set aside for natural habitat.
Demeter-USA also stipulates a minimal manipulation of the wine, prohibiting non-natural yeasts, heavy use of sulfites, water, even malolactic fermentation. But they do allow the use of natural egg whites and bentonite to adjust wine minimally.
Bottom-line, Demeter-USA is the highest certification of organic wine attainable and Biodynamic certification can only come through Demeter-USA.
USDA-National Organic Program came about in 2002 to set a minimum standard for a product to be labeled "organic". Several organizations can certify wines as organic, as defined by USDA regulations. Some states such as Oregon do their own USDA organic certification as do other entities.
Generally speaking, USDA Organic is not as strict a certification as Biodynamic certification. There are USDA restrictions on synthetic pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers; however there are no standards relative to the whole farm approach to managing the farm as an organism. In a winery, the USDA does allow more intervention with yeasts, sulfites, and acids in the wine making process. (Check the regulations for specific approved additives.)
Note: Wine may also be labeled as "From Organic Grown Grapes" and still not be an "organic" wine.
In summary, the differences between Biodynamic and Organic are:
· Biodynamic--the vineyard is to be viewed in the context of soil, all plants, and animal interaction in a defined area.
· Biodynamic--no dependence on imported or synthetic materials for fertilizing, weed control, and pest control.
USDA Organic-no synthetic materials in the vineyard but natural products can be brought into the vineyard.
· Biodynamic--focus is on sustainability of the farm/vineyard and minimized waste of water and natural resources. In reality, biodynamic wines have the smallest carbon footprint of any agricultural method.
· Biodynamic-- wines must be produced with Biodynamic approved natural ingredients and protected from manipulation in the process of fermentation and putting into the bottle. These conditions are outlined in a Biodynamic Processing Standards document.
USDA Organic-allows the winery to manipulate the wine but only if they use approved materials.
· Biodynamic--the vineyard must be a self-contained eco-system.
· Organic is a less regulated wine than Biodynamic yet is still a powerful approach to healthier wines.
Other verbiage that might be misleading consumers looking for organic wine: Sustainable, Natural or just the words "From organic grapes". Sustainable seems to be most indicative of vineyards or wineries who strive to conserve water, conserve energy and minimize their waste. In California there are grower associations who certify their members under - "SIP Certified" and "Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing". This has nothing to do with use of pesticides, etc.
The eco-certifications (Biodynamic and Organic) seem to be growing. "There is growing interest in Biodynamic and Organic certification amongst wineries," says Elizabeth Candelario, Marketing Director-Demeter-USA. Demeter Biodynamic® is currently in 50 countries. Today there are 72 wineries in the US that have a Demeter-USA Biodynamic and/or Stellar organic certification. (As noted earlier there are other "Organic" certification programs.) September 2016 The King Estate Winery announced they will produce their wines under the Biodynamic certification. In Sonoma, Benzinger Wines is one of the oldest wineries in the U.S. producing eco-certified wines under the Biodynamic banner.
Organic grapes/wines are about 10% more expensive to produce but the marketplace is saying they want that option. 55% of wine consumers in California say organic wines are a better quality.
The American Association of Wine Economics published the results of a July 2015 study titled-"Does Organic Wine Taste Better? An Analysis of Experts' Ratings", was conducted by Magali A. Delmas, Olivier Gergaud and Jinghui Lim. In this very detailed academic study they say, "The growing demand for environmentally sustainable products has created a boom in the field of green products. For instance, sales of organic foods in the U.S. increased from $13.3 billion in 2005 to an estimated $34.8 billion in 2014." It appears the wine industry has participated in this growth as well. From 1998 to 2009, the study reportsthe, eco-certified wine operations grew from 10 to 57 in CAlifornia. Today it is more than 74.
Further, California, which produces about 85-90% of U.S. wines at about 276 million cases annually (Wine Institute.org) does drive the market. With that volume of production, consumers do have a say in wines California wineries and vineyard owners produce. According to an article in the August issue of "Beverage World" by Andrew Kaplan, the "organic" wine market in the U.S. is $242 million, thanks to Costco and grocery stores. "Natural is no longer what is used to be. Organic is the new badge of health," said Kaplan.
Winemakers are beginning to feel that organic growing and production practices allow for a more rounded taste to their wines that add a new dimension to their craft-terroir. Interestingly, more wineries are starting to push their terroir identity; their place. Wine's place is also one of the statements from King Estate in Eugene, Oregon. "... biodynamic principles will only further enhance the expression of Oregon Terroir. The more that you can limit any input you can bring into the system from outside, the greater the ability... of the grapes to truly express that site," say Ray Nuclo in his comments to Peter Mitham.
Whatever the moniker you look for in choosing wines, if you want "organic" make sure the label says "Organic Certified" or "Biodynamic Certified" on the label.

4 Tips to Help You Make the Best Out of a Wine Tour

Whenever you are spending a cosy evening with your family accompanied by a glass of the finest wine, don't you ever wish to visit the place that produces such marvels? Well, almost all of us have it on our bucket list to be a part of wine tours that allow visitors to taste their creations freshly prepared and bottled. It is an adventure for several especially for those who love to pay such frequent visits and enjoy the authentic flavours of nature.
Most wineries are known to keep their doors open to the common people where they serve freshly prepared wines that are graded according to the quality of the grapes and its manufacturing process. Being a part of a wine tour is not just an enriching experience, you are likely to receive a lot from every trip that you make in all aspects right from having an experience in watching how they make the wines that we drink and how it actually tastes when it is freshly prepared. While you make yourself a part of such tours, here are a few tips that could make the trip worthwhile.
Always opt for prior reservations
Not all wineries are known to be welcoming people over to their premises randomly. They often appreciate prior reservations that include the details of the number of people arriving and the time that they intend to stay there. This allows them to make necessary arrangements and accordingly welcome the guests over. There are times when they want you to specifically mention your itinerary that would enable them to arrange for an extra workforce to attend to your needs.
Hold the glass well
Experts often advise people intending to be a part of wine tours to hold the glass well before they taste it. When they serve you freshly prepared wine, it is likely to be in the room temperature, and it would taste best as when aerated well. Holding the glass at the stem and swirling it would aerate it well. Holding it at the base would transfer heat from the hand which may not give you the right flavour.
Wear cool clothes
As you are likely to stay outdoors most of the time visiting the vineyard and checking on the grapes that are to move in for wine production, it is best advised for you to wear breezy clothes that aren't dark coloured. This would allow you to manage to stay outdoors for long. Even if you are addicted to using deodorants and perfumes, ensure that it isn't strong on the nose as you may not be able to taste the wine with the fragrance overpowering your sense of taste.
Purchase moderately
If you intend to take home a few bottles of the wine that you have just tasted, you could consider making moderate purchases. Keep in mind the process in which you would be taking the bottles along with you in a way not to break them while on your way. If you have visited a different country and are a part of the tours, you could ask the authorities to deliver them to your address and ensure that it would reach you safely when you get back home.

The Guide to Pinot Noir Wine

Pinot Noir is a red wine grape that originated in Burgundy and it is one of the oldest wine spices planted in France. The name is derived from the French words pine and black, pine to describe tightly clustered grapes. Today, Pinot Noir grapes are all around the world. The first historic evidence is associated 2,000 years ago in the French region known as Pasco Robels - this was an ideal soil to produce tightly packed clusters. Some wine experts call it "heartbreak grape" because of the thin skinned grapes capable for early ripening with overwhelming flavour.
The thin skin of these delicate grapes requires diligent management as the balance of the wine can be easily destroyed by intervention. As one of the fines wines in the world, it is recognizable by cherry aroma mixed with strawberries. Soon after the wine ages it can bring the potential to develop "barnyard" aroma and savoury fleshiness with more fruit prominent and cleaner appearance.
The international success of the Pinot Noir as the most highly prized wine is typically evident during the late 1980`s and through the next couple of decades. The 1990`s showed an increase in the world production and sale in several wine growing regions of Australia, Austria, Canada and France. This wine is very fickle and can have quite a range of aromas, depending on the vintage and the earth where it`s grown. The major Pinot Noir produced in Burgundy is usually herbaceous with earthy aromas close to wet leaves. The wine in Germany tends to offer more sweet and fruit aromas which are quite different from Italian Pinot Noir where the climate is much cooler. Pinot Nero, as the Italians call it, tends to have more colour extraction and higher alcohol content.
Australians have identified Victoria and Tasmania as being cool enough for this wine. New Zealand is capable to produce the best Pinot outside Burgundy and certainly there are many fine examples of cooler regions in which the grape can develop interesting flavours. Often described as a difficult grape to deal with, wineries around the world are really passionate about its sensuality for the purpose of making wine. The popular image persist that this type od wine creates a long lasting impression in every person`s memory. The aroma is widely accepted as one of the most complex of all varieties starting with fruits enhanced with cinnamon and mushroom as common spiciness for identifying Pinot Noir. Most of the best Pinot Noirs are bottled under screw caps, which further highlights the fresh, clean fruit of these wines.
There is one component in which Pinot Noir seems naturally quite rich, 3-4 times higher compared to other varieties, especially when it is grown in chiller and more humid environments: resveratrol. While this may not affect the aspects of sensory enjoyment, it may draw the attention of health-conscious consumers.
Pinot Noir is not a simple wine. It is likely that it fascinates everyone by its greater complexity rich with dark fruit aromas and flavours.

8 Tips for a Successful Wine Trail Visit

The high demand for quality wine across the globe is the primary factor that motivates investors to establish vineyards. They hold special events during summer, public holidays, and weekends to market their products. During these events, they give out samples of their products and sell them at discounted prices. Here are crucial tips for a successful wine trail visit.
Invest in a Carriage Box
For people who intend to purchase multiple bottles of wine, an empty box to carry them back home will come in handy. Carriage boxes allow one to carry several bottles safely, especially when driving on rough roads.
Have a Designated Driver
The little tastes will quickly add up as the day progresses. Having a designated driver will lower the risk of accidents. Alternatively, one can hire a tour company that operates around the region to be on the safe side.
Focus on the Small Places
Large facilities with expansive parking lots tend to attract crowds, which can spoil the whole experience. It is recommended to concentrate on the smaller, lesser known vineyards to feel the passion of this drink and get a clear perspective of the making process.
Be Polite and Calm
It is amazing to see how people act rudely after imbibing at several tasting rooms. It is imperative to remain calm and polite when interacting with the personnel.
Think Outside the Box
Going on a wine trail visit provides an opportunity to sample new brands. Visitors should not limit themselves to grape-based wine; instead, they should try out other regional specialties like blueberry, cherry, or peach.
Invest in a Portable Freezer
If the car sits in the sun for hours, the heat inside will tamper with the taste and quality of your purchases. Carry a portable freezer to safeguard quality when driving back home or to a different tasting room.
It's All about Timing
It is wise to go early to avoid crowds. By doing so, one gets a chance to chat with the staff, especially in the up-and-coming vineyards. Note that most people visit during the weekends and public holidays, so try to avoid these times.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can compromise the experience. Carrying several bottles of clean water will keep visitors hydrated throughout the day. It is also a good idea to bring a packed meal to enjoy with a bottle of wine during lunch hour.
Going on a wine trail visit is one of the best ways of experiencing the classic and modern varieties on the market. Heed the above tips and enjoy delicious memories.