The popularity of the green movement in Canada and around the world has everyone talking about organics, sustainable living, green house gases and global warming; all kinds of issues about a healthy environment and a healthy lifestyle. So where does wine fit into this equation?

First growing grapes for the purpose of making wine is very different than growing table grapes. A good vinoron knows that the vine should struggle to get enough nutrients to the fruit, therefore minimal or no fertilizers are necessary. So, in organic wines no chemical fertilizers are used.

Most of the world’s wineries try to practice organic farming methods for the health of the vineyard. The bigger issue is chemical herbicides and pesticides. There are many dangers from insects and fungus that growers have to deal with, and for the organic grower these can create great challenges which is why many wineries that use organic practices do not declare themselves, just in case they need chemicals to arrest a dangerous blight.

Many of the most famous French wines are organic because they have never changed their methods for hundreds of years, so what was natural one hundred years ago is organic today.

So what about wines labeled organic? The oldest designation is “biodynamic” which means that the winery takes a holistic approach, connecting with nature by planting and harvesting according to lunar cycles. All biodynamic wines are organic. The Rhone Valley and Bordeaux produce many biodynamic wines. Minimal or no sulphates are added to organic wine but sulphates occur naturally so no wine is without sulphates. The LCBO limit for organic wine is 25mg/l, the level for non organic is 50 mg/l.

Each country has a slightly different interpretation of what constitutes an organic wine. Mostly to reflect a particular difficulty in that growing area. California is a leader in the new world for organic wines and Fetzer is the leader in California. They are the largest California
winery to make a commitment to organics. Though not all their wine is declared organic, their Bonterra line is. Their Chardonnay is buttery with toasted vanilla notes that do

not overpower the fresh green apple and citrus flavours. $17.95 342436 a Vintages Essential item. The Cabernet is medium bodied with flavours of Cassis, cherry and blackberry, easy tannins and a long finish. $19.95 342428 Vintages Essentials.

Chile is a bit of a late comer to the organic movement but Chile has one of the best natural climates for growing organically. The dry climate and sandy soils naturally inhibit pests and diseases. Nova’s Sauvignon Blanc 2005 from Casablanca Valley is crisp and lively with good tart fruit tastes. $15.95
685784 Vintages. Their Cabernet Merlot 2004 from Central Valley has lots of Cassis, raspberry and cherry. A rich, fruit forward wine. $14.95 685792 Vintages.

France has many organic wines that are available in the LCBO Vintages and from agents. Chateau Chavrignac 2004 is an excellent, classic Bordeaux blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. It is medium bodied with great fruit and earthy overtones. $19.95 685339 Vintages.
The agent is Carriage Trade Wines located in Orangeville, if Vintages is sold out. Another great wine from Carriage trade is Domain Sainte-Anne from Entre-Deux-Mers France. This classic blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillion is dry and fresh with tropical fruit and citrus flavours $18.95. To order wine from an agent you must take a case, but you can split that with friends.

Ontario has only one certified organic winery and that is Frog Pond from Niagara-on-the- Lake. They make a dry Riesling and a Cabernet-Merlot. The Riesling is very dry, crisp and clean with good floral notes and apricot flavours. Frog Pond wines are only available from the winery and come in 500 ml bottles $12.95.

Most LCBO Vintages sections carry organic wines so check it out and try some. Unlike fresh organic produce, you do not pay an extra premium for organic wines and you can find some great buys. Almost every wine producing area now has organic wines. This is not just a testament to the market but a very serious commitment to the quality of the wine, care for the environment and the health of those who will enjoy these wines.

Daniel’s of Nobleton carries a selection of organic wines clearly marked on the wine list. Enjoy the experience.