natural vineyard sprays
jun 2023
While there are many certified organic vineyard sprays, we opt to make our own- going far beyond the organic standards to minimize chemical inputs at our estate vineyard. Brewing up compost teas, and holistic sprays is not only a fun exercise in fermentation, but it is also a great tool for maintaining healthy vines and soils.
I have been using holistic sprays in the vineyard over the last few years. We combine these teas into our spray program, along with neem oil, liquid kelp, and compost tea to promote soil health and reduce chemical usage in the vineyard. Personally, I think that less additives in the vineyard produces fruit that is healthier with a truer flavor. Because of the natural processes that we use in the cellar, this is a better place to start from when fermenting naturally. I want the fruit to be as natural as possible for it to have good nutrient content to kick start fermentation off strong. It's pretty normal for conventional winemakers to add nutrients artificially during the fermentations, but for organic/biodynamic farming this is really a priority if you want to try and have healthy fermentations that are less likely to have issues with microbial spoilage.
Two examples of fermented teas I’ve brewed up and used in our spray program at Stonemarker are a horsetail herb tea and a stinging nettle tea. The horsetail herb was foraged in Eastern WA, while the stinging nettles are found and collected on our property at the base of the vineyard, along Coldwell Creek. These plants are rich in bioavailable silica, calcium and other beneficial micro-nutrients that help to fortify the plant’s immune system.
Using natural methods for maintaining soil health, controlling vine pests and diseases, and combating weeds and mildew creates visible changes at the Stonemarker. Ultimately, we feel that responsible farming is not only important for protecting our environment, but results in healthier soil and better quality fruit.
vines