This is the motto of organic winegrowers in Champagne!
Organic viticulture in Champagne
Organic viticulture respects living organisms and is characterized by a reduced use of natural elements such as sulfur, copper, clay, etc. The focus is on plowing, green manure, cover cropping, and compost. Pruning is the most important task, from which all other work depends (tying, suckering, training). These tasks are performed by hand and adapted to the grape varieties.
This production method respects, nurtures, and improves the soil, preserves air and water quality, and promotes biodiversity. By paying particular attention to the life of microorganisms in the soil, organic winegrowers also promote the expression of the terroir in the wine.
To protect the vines from pests, organic winegrowers can use various methods: natural predators, natural minerals, friendly bacteria, and medicinal plants.
Some winegrowers also use horses on part of their vineyard to plow in summer and hill up in winter. Horses reduce soil compaction and allow for more precise work, as seen at Champagne de Sousa. Against downy mildew, copper salts are used in smaller doses. In practice, this average is very often below the permitted maximum levels.
As with all producers in Champagne, manual harvesting is obligatory to bring whole and undamaged grapes to the press.
Organic and Biodynamic
The basic principles are identical for both production methods. Biodynamic agriculture additionally uses natural preparations and considers cosmic influence. Logos from Demeter or Biodyvin confirm that a product meets the guidelines for biodynamic agriculture, as with Champagne Piollot.
ORGANIC CERTIFICATION
European organic farming regulations prohibit the use of synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, and GMOs. The European organic logo "Euroblatt" (mandatory as soon as a product is declared organic) on the label is a sign of a trust contract between producers and consumers. Controls are carried out by an independent body at least once a year and unannounced as often as necessary. Analyses of leaves, grapes, or wine can be performed to ensure no pesticide residues are present.
Our selection of certified organic champagnes.
Source: www.champagnesbiologiques.com
(c) Photo: Ch. Piollot
