October 31, 2013
Fewer chemicals will lead to a better world for all.

We are partners with many leaders in natural, organic and biodynamic viticulture and vinification. Working with Zev Rovine and his import portfolio has been eye-opening on how producers can push beyond farming, further into the natural world, by using minimalist approaches to winemaking to create a more natural and true representation of what the land provides us (these are the types of wines our ancestors most likely drank). (for more info see wine dinners below) We are strongly committed to supporting these growers and producers, but with an overall objective to sell delicious, authentic wines (delicious over dogma!).

We are happy to see more and more domestic growers following organic and biodynamic farming practices. We’ve partnered with Chris Condos and Suzanne Hagins to bring Illinois their organic, handcrafted, small batch California wine. Horse & Plow and The Gardener are the newest additions to our natural viticulture portfolio.

- Horse & Plow -
Chris and Suzanne started Horse & Plow in 2008 to merge the best of Old and New World techniques and produce honest, structured terroir expressions. Their organic vineyards dot the North Coast of California; including Sonoma, Napa & Mendocino Counties. They work exclusively with growers who are committed to superior quality by using certified organic and/ or biodynamic techniques. These sustainable practices allow Chris and Suzanne to craft wines with greater complexity and sense of place, while caring for worker health and the environment. Organic doesn’t stop when the grapes get to the winery; their wines are made naturally with no synthetic nutrients or additives, no GMO’s, are vegan and contain low sulfites. Because of the care and time put into every bottle of wine, quantities are limited.

- The Gardener -
These wines are elegant expressions of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from coastal, Sonoma County vineyards. Native yeasts and malolactic fermentations, extended lees contact, exceptional cooperage and minimal handling are some of the methods used to craft these very limited and memorable wines.