The training winemaker was back in and on the ground for a while. It is incredible how regenerative agriculture has yet to land there, too. I’m trying to play devil’s advocate, but that wine cultivation does something weird to people. It’s a bit like a VIP ticket to a Formula 1 race and you get to join the “pit” to change tires. By the way, I think the “behind the scenes” of winemaking is a bit like visiting a slaughterhouse. You’re not “hungry” for a while.
But still, I have a lot of respect for everyone who takes off hear. Especially in Belgium because that really is pioneering. Awesome
Unfortunately, the knowledge of how to do it “organically” is not yet widespread. I have spent hours of research on it myself, and my questions are often looked upon smugly. But when I landed on this podcast series, it was a real “AHA” moment. I’m not alone. So have fun listening to ‘Beyond organic wine’
Consider before you begin. Training is highly recommended.
Meanwhile, I can only say that when I read that people are going to take grapevine cuttings I really dare to recommend taking a course first. Why… Viticulture seems simple, but it is super complex. If I can single one out…. is just taking cuttings is not smart. There are really we good reasons why a good “rootstock” is more important than ever. So just cuttings in the ground without knowing what you are doing….. DON’T.
Did you know…
In the late 19th century, the phylloxera epidemic destroyed most vineyards for wine grapes in Europe, especially in France. Phylloxera was introduced to Europe when fanatical botanists in Victorian England collected specimens from American vines in the 1850s.
Deploying resistant rootstocks saved the crop. So the choice of rootstock is super important. Meanwhile, in addition to the classic wine varieties, many hybrid varieties are already on the market. They call them Piwis. If you’ve never heard of these, it’s all the more reason to get an education. You can do that at the National Agricultural Institute, among other places . But there are certainly other places where you can pursue that.
Need to turn your knowledge of wine upside down?
Do you want to do some research online already? In Belgium, Geurt Van Rennes is one of those passionate teachers with a lot of knowledge. But Kris Vandewijngaert, who used to work at PC fruit wine, is also trying to share his knowledge through Wijnbouwer.be. Anyway, growing grapes for making wine or consumption for sale to third parties is subject to a lot of rules.
That training is especially helpful in understanding that without proper management, the vineyard will quickly be subject to a lot of diseases. A real training program dedicated solely to Organic Wine Growing does not yet exist, unfortunately. Aside from what you are not allowed to spray in organic wine growing, you are therefore sometimes left a little hungry.
Beyond Organic Wine
This delightful podcast series is an absolute must-read “Beyond Organic Wine. My belief that it can be done without all those pesticides has not yet been shattered.
The winegrowers we visited during the training are certainly committed to “sustainable growing techniques. The word biodiversity was not out of place there. It is inspiring to see these Belgian pioneers at work and especially how they are willing to share their knowledge with. Thanks to “Wine Estate Optimbulles” and the “Petrus Farm” and a lot of other passionate teachers.
I would say walk past the shelf of Belgian wines in the store. Because they are worth it.
