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Farming with Philosophy: Johan Reyneke on Biodynamics & South African Wine
What happens when you mix philosophy with farming? You get Johan Reyneke — one of South Africa’s true pioneers in organic and biodynamic viticulture. In my latest YouTube interview, I sit down with Johan in Montreal to talk about his fascinating journey from philosophy student to vineyard labourer, and ultimately, to founder of Reyneke Wines — South Africa’s first certified biodynamic winery. Johan shares how reading thinkers like Thoreau and Arne Næss — and grappling with the philosophical tensions between development and nature — led him to question the conventional, chemical-heavy farming practices he encountered early on. His solution? A vineyard guided by ethics, ecology, and self-sufficiency. We dig into the practical side too — from using ducks and cattle as natural pest and weed control, to the challenges of going organic in the early ’90s, when few around him even knew what that meant. Johan also introduces Reyneke’s newly redesigned, lower-carbon-footprint wine packaging — a
by Jacky Blisson5 viewsreviewsbiodynamic-winechenin-blancjacky-blisson-mwjohan-reynekeorganic-wine - news
Wine Terms You Pretend to Know (But Don’t): A 3-Part Series
Let’s be honest—wine terminology can be confusing. In fact, some wine vocabulary is so esoteric and contensious that even connoisseurs argue about its meaning. Whether you’re new to wine or just faking your way through tastings, you’re not alone. In this 3-part wine education video series, I (Jacky Blisson, Master of Wine) break down the most misunderstood wine tasting terms and explain them in clear, no-nonsense language. If you’ve ever wondered what people really mean when they talk about grippy tannins, or a firm structure, or high volatile acidity, these short videos are for you. And, if you want to boost your wine language skills, check out my nerdy little guide to tannins descriptors and my explanation of why acidity in wine matters. Episode 1: The Classics of Wine Tasting Learn the basics: acidity, body, texture, tannins, and finish—what they are, how to recognize them, and why they matter. Episode 2: The Fancy-Sounding Jargon We’re decoding structure, balance, complexity, terro
by Jacky Blisson4 viewsreviewsacidity-in-winebrettjacky-blisson-mwmaster-of-wineminerality-in-wine