100 years of biodynamics in the world: a look back at our commitment

Originally, a series of lectures given in 1924 by an Austrian philosopher, Rudolf Steiner, to an audience of farmers experiencing the first effects of industrialization on their activity. Then, the Demeter organization, created in the 1930s, developed throughout the 20th century the agricultural practice today known as biodynamics.

The first form of organic farming, biodynamics was recognized in 1982 by the French government as an organic practice. Its objective is to organize healthy and nutritious agricultural production, without resorting to synthetic chemical products and while regenerating the soil and taking care of natural ecosystems. Based on observation, the practice considers nature as a living system in its own right. Depending on the astral cycle, seasons, climates and other circumstances that condition agricultural life, it consists of providing preventive care, developed from natural plant, mineral and organic raw materials that promote the development and balance of plants in harmony with their environment.

Because it allows a deep connection between the plant and the terroir, biodynamics appeals to winegrowers. 1% of French wine estates are now Demeter certified, an environmental label considered to be the strictest and most virtuous for living things.

Convinced that biodynamics is the path of excellence to produce great wines representative of their terroir and very attached to the protection of the environment and biodiversity, Gérard Bertrand chose in 2002 to convert all his practices in the vineyard to biodynamics. In 2024, his 17 châteaux and wine estates spread over 930 hectares in Occitanie are cultivated biodynamically, of which 830 hectares are already certified. This is the largest Demeter-certified area in the world, a benchmark expertise exercised by Gérard Bertrand and his teams every day in the vineyard.

Committed daily to all our actions for living things, soils and the quality of our wines, we will mark this historic moment all year long by celebrating 100 years of biodynamics in the world! Each month, you will find a dedicated newsletter, to understand everything about this agriculture, our commitments and the advantages.

@Geoffrey Lucas