We are not actually referring to wine that is the color green but rather to wine that has been made from organically grown grapes and made using environmentally friendly processes. Some similar terms you are likely to come across are bio-dynamic farming, green farming, and organic wine. More than just being carbon based, organically grown grapes are cultivated with a view to preserving the earth instead of depleting it. Green farming can even be taken a step farther with adding nutrients back to the soil. This idea of green or bio-dynamic farming is not a new idea; in fact, written works dating back centuries advocate preservation of the earth while still harvesting quality crops. The same principals have been applied to vineyard development and grape harvesting. Now, when you walk through your local grocery store, you can typically find a shelf full of bottles labeled organic wines.

Many winemakers claim the benefits of organic wine making are clearly noticeable in the wines they produce. They argue that the flavors are cleaner, more distinct, and that the wines do not spoil as quickly. Wine coolers can be used to even further extend the life of the wine. Additionally, wine refrigerators are ideal for aging quality organic wines. Further wine storage will no doubt help determine whether the aging of green wine produces fine vintages. The field of bio-dynamic viticulture has a criticized spiritual aspect, and although through taste tests with experts these wines have been judged well and in some cases superior to traditional wines, the skepticism remains that spirituality does not actually assist in growing quality grapes.

Organic and green farming have several facets to consider. One aspect is soil erosion and quality. Over-cultivation can cause the nutrients in the soil to be depleted which can in turn produce less desirable crops in subsequent years. The goal is to prevent nutrient depletion and harvest quality yields year after year. This is accomplished primarily through crop rotation, mineral powders, and green manure which leaches nitrogen back into the soil. Additionally, composting is a popular method of ensuring nutrient levels in soil and is also a great way to get rid of biodegradable refuse. Other elements to consider are weed management and pest control all without the use of chemicals.

Organic wine making is a two part process; growing the grapes organically and producing the wine organically. Usually, the fermentation of the wine is slowed and halted with the use of sulfites which are generally frowned upon by the green community. Therefore, wine makers have endeavored to create wines that are free of such chemicals but still have the aging potential of traditionally made wine. Unfortunately, this has not yet been perfected; the most advantageous methods of slowing fermentation are wine coolers and sulfites. Currently, much effort is put forth to research and develop organic methods of wine preservation. Clearly, the emphasis in recent years is on organic production. The general interest and popularity of organic wine has increased tremendously with growing awareness. Perhaps, with advances in organic farming and wine making practices, we can all enjoy organically made wine which benefits the earth.