By encompassing the natural environment in its overall vision, biodynamic agriculture aims to produce the best possible in ways that allow future generations to obtain the same – or even better – results. The soil itself is key in this type of agriculture, because it is ultimately dirt on which all life on earth depends, and in particular, the first metre of topsoil.
Organic agriculture is the environmentally friendly response to traditional agriculture. Here, the treatments used are made from natural ingredients, and the use of petrochemicals is forbidden. Working the land to combat weeds allows for a good assessment of the topsoil and subsoil.
Traditional agriculture, the most practised form of agriculture around the world, became commonplace following the two world wars, as it was during that era that knowledge about chemistry greatly increased. Traditional agriculture is based on treating the soil and plants with products that are more likely than not noxious, and more likely than not synthetically produced in a laboratory. These products are used to prevent disease or pests from blighting the plant.
The generally accepted definition of sustainable agriculture is that it is economically viable, environmentally healthful and socially equitable.
Guillaume Bodin is vigneron and film director of the documentary La Clef des Terroirs. Follow his story.
Today, Richard Leroy - a mature and talented winemaker – is making various types of Chenin wine in his vineyard “Les Noels de Montbenault” located in the heart of Coteaux du Layon area.