Certified Organic Wine

What it is

Certified organic wine is the only one in this family with a clear legal definition: in the European Union, the organic production rules cover both the vineyard and the winery. It can be white, rosé, red or sparkling, and its taste depends on the grape, region and style, not on the certification itself. In the EU, terms such as "organic" and "bio" are protected and may only be used on certified wine. Other countries have their own schemes, such as USDA Organic in the United States.

How it is made

In the vineyard, synthetic herbicides, pesticides and chemical fertilisers are not allowed; growers use authorised products such as copper and sulphur, along with organic fertilisers. In the winery, EU rules restrict the permitted additives and practices and set lower sulphite limits than for conventional wine. Because it is defined by method rather than grape, it can be made from any variety.

What to serve it with

• Seasonal vegetables
• Rice and pulse dishes
• Grilled fish
• Roast meats
• Artisan cheeses

On the wine list

• Many wine lists flag certified wines with a discreet symbol next to the name rather than creating a separate section that mixes very different styles.
• Keep certified organic, biodynamic and natural clearly apart: they are not synonyms, and informed guests notice.
• Avoid presenting it as healthier or higher quality; it usually sells better on style, grape and region, and it is served at the temperature of its wine type.