After more than 19 years of organic and biodynamic farming, we can say: the soils are full of life and the roots grow deeper. The vineyards have thus reached their equilibrium. The vines bear only as many grapes as they can feed. This allows us to harvest healthy grapes year after year in several passes. Working in harmony with nature is the basis for the production of authentic vineyard wines and thus the renaissance of great vineyards.
The more diverse it blooms, the better. A diversity of clover, coriander, mustard, dill, mallow, yarrow, chamomile & co breaks up the monoculture in our vine rows. The roots loosen the soil, earthworms feel at home and increase fertility. Hedges and trees on the edge of the vineyards are habitat for insects and birds. They provide biodiversity. Beneficial insects help us keep the vines healthy.
Sophie Christmann
Biodynamics has changed not only our vineyards, but above all us and our view of our vines. It closes the circle between man and origin. We orientate our work to the phases of the moon, use biodynamic preparations and produce our own compost. Because of our low yields, our vines don’t need as much nutrition. With our compost, which we produce from manure, green cuttings, pomace and straw, we primarily improve the soil structure and increase the water storage capacity of the soil through long-term humus build-up. We spread the compost in the vineyards in spring and then work it in only lightly. Thus, we leave the main work to the earthworms and microorganisms.
Steffen Christmann
For our biodynamic farming we are always looking for new impulses. Last year we came across the EU project” VINBIODIV” of Nabu. Now we are part of this initiative that seeks new answers for a vineyard work which is in harmony with the nature. Together we want to develop methods to strengthen biodiversity in the vineyards of the Upper Rhine. Viticulture and nature conservation in exchange to learn from each other. We have been advised intensively and have realized that we have already exhausted almost all possibilities in our vineyards. This is why we are now increasingly turning our attention to the surrounding areas. These were enhanced with plants such as wild roses, buckthorn, and other bushes that provide a site-appropriate food supply for insects or nesting sites for birds. We have also set up nesting facilities and shelters for animals and insects. We look forward to see how these are accepted!
