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Photo: True Russian Vodka / Flickr

After a long day at the office, some of us choose to relax with a glass or two of wine while in front of the TV for our regular dose of Inside Out or Eggheads. It beats having to deal with the post-work and pre-dinner rush at the local pub. In addition, we have the excuse that a glass a day is no longer considered bad for you. Red wine in particular has had its praises sung as regular, moderate consumption is good for your heart.

With today’s consumers being more environmentally and ethically aware, it’s no wonder that wine has also come under scrutiny. Along with ‘green’ clothing, ‘green’ food, ‘green’ cleaning products and ‘green’ toiletries, we demand ‘green’ wine. Since the late 1980s, organic wine has made its appearance in our supermarkets, in response to this greater awareness.

What’s the difference

Organic wine is made from grapes which are grown organically, that is without the use of artificial or synthetic fertilisers, pesticides and other chemical products. Its production generally has less impact on the environment and conforms to more sustainable methods than those employed to produce conventional wine.

The conventional wine industry makes use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides in order to produce larger amounts of grapes and to protect vines from diseases and pests. Unfortunately, these chemicals are absorbed through the roots and leaves and find their way into the fruit. The finished wines accordingly contain residual amounts of these chemicals which can are toxic to humans.

Workers on wine farms also have to wear protective clothing when handling these products. And it’s not only humans who are affected. There is also an adverse environmental impact on the soil, water and surrounding ecosystems.

Bad rep

Early organic wines had a bad reputation when it came to taste. But with better agricultural techniques that have been developed, organic wines nowdays retain the flavour that a particular land or ‘terroir’ imparts to them.

It’s all good

Another way in which organic wine farms impact favourably on the environment and the economy is that they engage in sustainable farming practices. Such practices include direct farming technology as well as providing wildlife information in order to increase awareness and protection of the various plants and animals in vicinity of the vineyards.

Personal taste

There are about 2,000 organic wine farmers around the world and almost half of those are in France. By choosing organic wine, you are not limiting yourself to British wines. You will still be able to enjoy great French, Californian or South African wines.

Just like conventional wines, there are some great organic wines and some less great ones. You either like them or you don’t. But you’ll never know until you try them.

Tags: chemicals, wine