We use biodynamic preparations to provide targeted stimuli to the soil and the plants. Preparations improve the soil quality, strengthen the plant and promote vitality and growth. The two most important preparations are horn manure (500) and horn silica (501).

The horn manure preparation has a particular influence on the soil and root development, which stimulates the balanced growth of the shoots and leaves. At our winery, this preparation is applied in November and again in spring. In contrast, horn silica is used during and following the flowering period, when the plant transitions from its growth phase (expansion phase) to the fruiting phase (concentration phase) at the peak of its development. The horn silica preparation strengthens the leaves, increases resistance to diseases and promotes fruit formation. We fertilise the soil in our vineyards with compost enhanced with small amounts of preparations made from yarrow, oak bark, nettle, chamomile, dandelion and valerian.

Alongside our preparations, we utilise various infusions to proactively bolster our plants. These infusions, made from chamomile, horsetail, nettle, dandelion, valerian, willow, oak bark and yarrow, are sprayed on the plants to preventively strengthen them. We also use compost teas.

To improve soil quality and increase biodiversity, we sow various seeds between the vine rows during the autumn months. These plants germinate at different depths, loosening the soil and fostering an environment where earthworms and soil microorganisms thrive. Improved aeration around the vine roots results in more breathable and water-retentive soil. The blossoming plants offer natural habitats for insects, which in turn attract more birds, thereby enriching biodiversity. Additionally, these plants contribute to increased biomass in spring, facilitating the formation of green manure and beneficial humus.

This term may sound a little complicated, but it’s essentially made up of three Latin words: “ager” (field), “silva” (forest) and “pastor” (shepherd). This system combines the cultivation of crops with forestry and grazing lands for livestock. In recent years, we’ve put a greater emphasis on forestation alongside animal husbandry and growing grains. We’ve planted a variety of shrubs, aromatic plants, fruit trees and olive trees among our vines, even replacing some grapevines with other types of woody plants. When planting new vines, we now allocate ample space for trees. This increases the vineyard’s diversity, and the trees and shrubs create habitats for birds and insects. Their deep roots improve the soil’s capacity to retain water, and the shade they provide helps keep the soil and ambient temperatures cooler and more consistent. Last but not least, the fruit, nut and olive trees serve as an additional food source for both humans and animals.

We aim to proactively strengthen and balance our vines to increase their resistance to fungi, pests and environmental stressors like heat and drought. In biodynamic viticulture, we do not use synthetic aids such as fungicides, insecticides, herbicides or synthetic mineral fertilisers. The aim is to make the vines as resistant as possible so that when diseases occur, their natural defences and self-healing powers are sufficient. In extreme weather conditions, such as long periods of high humidity, it is possible to prevent fungal diseases by applying copper and sulphur. These substances, which only cover the surface of the leaves, are permitted in small quantities in biodynamic agriculture. While we are cautious about copper and sulphur, we are not yet in a position to do without them completely.