Gavin Partington, Head of Communications at The Wine and Spirit Trade Association, answers some questions about their view on biodynamic wines

Wine Matters: What is the WSTA’s official line on biodynamic wine production?
Gavin Partington: The increasing popularity of biodynamic wine production stems in large part from the growing interest in methods of organic food production.  The EU Commission is currently considering a regulation for organic wine production.  However we shouldn’t exaggerate the impact of the current fashion on the industry as a whole. Our view is that biodynamic and organic methods of wine production will, overall, make a minor contribution to influencing production methods of the category as a whole.
   
WM: And does the WSTA educate or encourage producers to practice biodynamic?
GP: No. The WSTA lobbies on behalf of its members with Governments at home and abroad on various policy issues but it does not advocate particular methods of production.  Nevertheless we expect to see increasing pressure on suppliers and transporters to meet political and consumer demand for greener products and supply chains.

WM: Does the WSTA educate wine lovers to understand what biodynamic wine is?
GP: The WSTA seeks to keep members informed about all the latest major developments in the industry. Our website features a wide range of information about sustainability issues.  We will update members as necessary on European Commission plans to introduce standards for Organic Wine Production.

WM: Do you think more wine producers will adopt biodynamic farming methods in the near future?
GP: Based on current trends it seems likely that interest in biodynamic wines will increase slightly.  Whether or not that translates to increased adoption of biodynamic farming methods will depend on levels of consumer demand.

WM: Is there likely to be an EU code of practice for biodynamic wine production?
GP: A regulation for organic wine production is now being considered by the European Commission.  Its objective is to provide a standard for the definition and development of organic wine, but neither a code of practice nor a regulation is being considered for biodynamic wine production.

To find out more about the WSTA, or to become a member, please visit the website at www.wsta.co.uk