“Biodynamic grape growing develops the vineyard’s greatest potential—allowing the vineyard to be the best it can be—and then captures that distinctiveness in the bottle.” Demeter-USA Why Biodynamic Wine Production? Biodynamics is a very rigorous and holistic approach to farming that incorporates elements of homeopathy and even a little astrology. Biodynamic farming works in harmony with natural ecosystems to preserve and protect life’s diversity and species for future generations The Demeter Biodynamic® Farm Standard is a comprehensive organic farming method that requires the creation and management of a closed system minimally dependent on imported materials, and instead meets its needs from the living dynamics of the farm itself. As with organic production, the use of GMOs, synthetic chemicals, fertilizers or pesticides is not permitted. It is of fundamental importance that all processes are applied at the right time. The art of Demeter- cultivation lies in choosing the right time of application. This requires sensitive understanding of the rhythms of the earth and the cosmos. The positive influence of the cosmos on flora and fauna has been documented. An Australian study conducted at the University of Adelaide indicated that biodynamically cultivated vines exhibit a significantly better growth of roots. Healthier soil produces outstanding quality grapes and their resulting wines are the true essence of the winery’s terroir, creating a “taste of place” Biodynamic farming works in harmony with natural ecosystems to preserve and protect life’s diversity and species for future generations Healthy crop production equals a healthier glass of wine, free of man-made chemical contaminants and residues Why Biokult? Biodiversity in Action in the Vineyard The Michlit’s family-owned cattle herd of over 50 Angus beef combined with organic/Biodynamic wheat production are some of the most important tools to improve the soils and the vines that grow on them. Werner’s understanding of nature’s laws and the logical deductions from this have proven to be correct. His wines are consistently highly stable without the use of any major fining agents or induced stabilization processes. Biodynamic regulations prohibit the addition of outside aromatic yeast, malo- lactic bacteria, enzymes or tannins. Why Now? “Eco” Wines are slowly gaining more attention with 16% of US wine consumers now looking for these labels. Potential increases for sustainable, organic, and biodynamic wine as consumers grow more concerned about environmental issues. The Demeter Association says that the number of farms applying for biodynamic certification is on the rise. Much of the growth is due to the number of vineyards, including Michlits Family BIokult, that have become interested in biodynamic practices. They estimate a growth of 10% in Biodynamic certification each year, with most of that from wineries. “in biodynamics we are builders of health – not healers of sickness” – Alex Podolinsky, Bio-dynamic Pioneer Major organic wineries as well as large organic food companies are on board the Biodynamic bandwagon with new product lines or line extensions, at the behest of major natural retailers who see it as a value-added addition for their consumers. The opportunity in the marketplace is great, and the demand for Biodynamic wine by both the retailer and end consumer is increasing every year. .