Since 2006, I have been working according to the biodynamic guidelines of the Demeter Association. Working biodynamically is a wonderful life's work. It requires a great deal of sensitivity in the vineyard and long-term thinking. For me, biodynamic viticulture means much more than “just” making wine. It is much more about understanding the connections between living things. Nature is a sophisticated system that needs to be explored, and its self-regulating forces need to be harnessed for viticulture. How to do this cannot simply be learned from a textbook. It requires a great deal of observation, perseverance, patience and experience. In his lectures, Rudolf Steiner (1864-1925) provided inspiration on how to understand and harness the forces of nature. Since then, research and development in this field has continued. The Demeter Association – the international association of biodynamic farmers – has various working groups that meet regularly to exchange experiences and conduct further research in their (specialist) fields. One of these working groups also jointly produces preparations that are important for agriculture. The horn manure preparation, for example, stimulates soil life, while the horn silica preparation gives the plant an impulse to form. In addition, various preparations are made from medicinal herbs such as nettle, valerian, yarrow and chamomile, which are also used to soothe or strengthen the plants depending on the weather and (very importantly) for composting. Of course, as in any type of viticulture, the work of the winemaker is essential. When he carries out each step of the process and how diligently he does so ultimately affects the harvest and the taste of the wine. You can sense in his wines that Matthias puts his heart and soul into his work and is very mindful of the ‘right’ moment. Try them for yourself :-) Various lunar and planetary calendars can be used to identify the ‘right’ time. I primarily work with Maria Thun's calendar, which is published annually. Maria Thun's own research has revealed a great deal about the effects of different lunar rhythms and planetary constellations, and she has used this information to develop recommendations for horticulture, among other things.