The foundational belief of both biodynamic and organic wine making is that healthier soil makes healthier grapes, and healthier grapes taste better, and thus make better wine. Of the two, most people by now understand at least the principles of organic farming, but may not be familiar with biodynamic farming. However, biodynamic farming actually predates organic farming by over two decades.

Biodynamic and organic farming both place emphasis on soil health, and shun the use of synthetic compounds which pollute and deplete the soil of essential nutrients. In both cases, instead of using chemical fertilizers, organic compounds are used. Instead of pesticides, non-toxic means are used. But biodynamic farming takes organic wine-making one step further. In addition to pesticide-and chemical-free vines, biodynamic farming applies a whole-earth mindset to viticulture. Rather than looking at the health of the vine and grape as a self-contained unit, biodynamics considers the health of the entire plot of land. The impact of attendant flora and fauna are taken into account, and all tending activities are carefully timed according to solar and lunar calendars.

Waxing Moon: Time to Rack

Special calendars are published every year with different categorical days. There are certain days during which a biodynamic farmer will only de-bud and trim the vines; other days during which root work will take place; still others when no work should take place on the vines themselves, and farmers should instead work on stakes, burning cuttings, etcetera. During the waxing moon, it's said that the sap rises, so biodynamic farmers take this opportunity to harvest their crops and rack their wines. During a waning moon, the sap descends (or, the vines "shut down"), so it's considered the right time to re-fertilize, trim, and replant.

Wine critics tend to agree that biodynamic wines are noticeably more aromatic, and their flavors linger longer. Biodynamic farming is enjoying strong popularity within Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Limited experimentation is currently taking place in the United States. Biodynamic wines will typically feature certification marks from either "Demeter International," or "Biodyvin," or may merely feature the term "biodynamic" clearly on the label.