This does not mean unquestioning acceptance of trendy practices. Recognizing the importance of objective research, we look for promising methods within the frameworks of organics, biodynamics and elsewhere, and subject these to small-scale trial before approving them for wider use.

Malivoire composts its cuttings, pomace and other vineyard leftovers to return to the soil. Some is set aside to make "compost tea", applied to our vines to provide beneficial organisms and nutrients. This is one of the elemental substances we rely on to control pests. Another, wild horsetail weed, is brewed to create a silica-rich anti-mildew spray.

Through such methods as harvesting by hand, we minimize the use of heavy machinery in our vineyards. Along with the obvious payoff of reducing pollution-causing emissions, this promotes vineyard health by reducing soil compaction.

In researching earth-friendly farming methods, Malivoire is willing to look beyond the officially designated boundaries of Organics. Nevertheless our original vineyard, the "Moira", has operated since 2004 under Organic certification, issued by OCPP / ProCert Canada and now we can proudly say that all of our vineyards have been certified organic. *

Click here to see the actual certificates

Apart from organics, the nuts-and-bolts details of everyday farming are also under constant watch. A recent example is a new trellising system under trial in our Gamay block. We are also exploring the effectiveness of higher vine density. A one-third acre test site in our Moira Vineyard Pinot Noir block has been replanted to a density of 8,000 vines per acre from the current 1,333. Not only do we anticipate higher fruit quality by reducing the vigour of the vines; the shadow cast by a more compact leaf canopy should also help us control weeds.

*Organic Crop Producers and Processors of Ontario / Pro-Cert Organic Systems of Saskatchewan