Biodynamic Farming?
01.14
What is Biodynamic® farming?
Biodynamic® farming encompasses everything organic, then takes it further. It is the oldest comprehensive system of organic agriculture started in 1924 by German philosopher Rudolph Steiner. Biodynamic® farms strive to be a self-sustaining organism within the surrounding ecosystem. The name comes from the Greek word “bio”, which means life-energy. The worldwide Demeter organization certifies Biodynamic® farms. Demeter standards are generally stricter than organic standards and emphasize farm animals, soil and plant sprays and compost preparations which enhance and regulate plant growth and fertility.
A wave of prestigious California vineyards have embraced Biodynamic® farming methods since Frey Vineyard’s home ranch became Demeter certified in 1996. Inspired by the success of famous French wine chateaus using these methods, winemakers are excited about the high quality of Biodynamically® grown grapes.
At Frey Vineyards we oversee grazing of cows, sheep and chickens in the vineyard rows. We grow our own herbs such as chamomile and yarrow for the Biodynamic® preparations and encourage a diversity of plants to grow in buffer zones around our vineyard plots. The end results are pure and delicious Frey Biodynamic® wines, bursting with flavors that reflect their special part of the world.
~Frey Vineyards
