In a world where more and more people are looking for sustainable lifestyle options, organic wine may seem like a new trend but it’s actually been around for a while. In fact, even before health food stores became popular and “go green” became a catchphrase, organic wine emerged, largely due to the organic movement in the 1960s. As consumers became more worried about the chemicals used in farming, like pesticides, and their possible effects, winemakers took notice and introduced organic alternatives. Today, organic wines are widely produced globally, and in Argentina, leading the charge as the country’s number 1 producer of organic wines is Domaine Bousquet Wines, the first winery to be certified in regenerative agriculture.

Although they might appear similar when poured into a glass, the differences between organic and non-organic wines span from the use of chemicals to certification. The key contrast lies in the use of chemicals and additives both in farming and winemaking processes. Organic winemaking limits chemical use on the farm and additives in the winery, while non-organic wine may originate from farms where pesticides and herbicides are applied to the crops, and sulfites and other additives are incorporated during winemaking. Because organic winemakers steer clear of chemicals and artificial additives, there’s no risk of toxic substances ending up in the wine consumer’s drink. This is also beneficial for vineyard workers who are spared exposure to harmful pesticides, an often overlooked aspect of organic winemaking that should pique the interest of anyone interested in a sustainable lifestyle.

When you’re shopping for wine, you might keep an eye out for the organic label, but what does it take for a wine to earn that label? The process of certifying wine as organic is pretty rigorous so those wineries that have the certified organic label have worked hard to implement and maintain sustainable practices. No matter where it’s from, having that organic certification, which you can spot by looking for a special label, shows a winery’s dedication to sustainable farming and winemaking. Any winemaker who goes through this thorough and lengthy certification process is making a commitment to the health of consumers, workers, and the local environment.

Domaine Bousquet, located in Mendoza, Argentina, is a family-owned winery that takes pride in producing organic and vegan wine. From their vineyards to grape processing, their commitment to biodiversity and permaculture sees them striving to set the standard for elegant, sustainable organic wines. Whether you’re gathering with friends or enjoying a quiet evening at sunset with charcuterie and a loved one, organic wines are the perfect complement. Nestled in the picturesque mountain community of Tupungato, Domaine Bousquet values its local roots and prioritises hiring employees from the community.

From its inception more than 20 years ago, this winery embraced organic farming practices with sustainability at the core of their ethos, recognising the importance of preserving the environment for future generations. By eschewing synthetic pesticides and fertilisers, Domaine Bousquet not only protects the health of their vineyards but also promotes biodiversity and soil health. Moreover, they go beyond organic certification by implementing a range of sustainable initiatives, such as water conservation measures, like drip irrigation systems, and energy-efficient practices throughout the winemaking process. In 2011, the winery achieved certification as both organic and biodynamic, further solidifying its commitment to environmentally friendly practices.

The winery has also amassed an enviable roster of award-winning wines that usually score 90 points and above when ranked by James Suckling, Tim Atkin or Descorchados, amongst others. Today, Thursday Food introduces you to some of the labels from this Argentine winery:

Ameri Organic Malbec is named for Domaine Bousquet co-owner Labid al Ameri, and is made from vineyards located 1,257 metres above sea level. This 94-point wine is a 100 per cent Malbec with a 14.5 per cent alcoholic volume and a deep violet colour. On the nose, violet flowers and black fruit aromas are expressed, while in the mouth its velvety and complex sweet tannins combine to end in a delicate finish.

Ameri Organic Cabernet Sauvignon is also a 94-point wine with a 14.5 per cent alcoholic volume that is made from 100 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. This wine has a deep violet colour and exhibits pronounced red and black fruit aromas with mineral

notes as well as red pepper. It is full-bodied on the palate with velvety tannins and long finish.

Gran Organic Cabernet Sauvignon, a 93-point wine, is from Domaine Bousquet’s line starring their best grapes from the “home” vineyard: the original vineyard planted by Jean Bousquet in the late 1990s. This 100 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon, aged for 12 months in French oak, has a deep violet colour. It has distinct aromas of fig, raisin and black pepper along with mineral notes. In the mouth, it has a full-bodied palate with present tannins and long finish.

Gran Organic Malbec is a 93-point red varietal that comprises 85 per cent Malbec, five per cent Cabernet Sauvignon, five per cent Merlot and five per cent Syrah. Primarily Malbec it has been blended with Cabernet Sauvignon for structure and Merlot for roundness, a testament to its Argentine-Andean heritage and the French origin of the Bousquet family.

Bousquet Reserve Organic Chardonnay is a 90-point, 100 per cent Chardonnay that is bright yellow in colour. Impressively ripe fruit aromas with peach and nectarine notes are exhibited on the nose. In the mouth, it is smooth and fresh on the palate with a fruity character and medium body.

Gaia Organic Cabernet Franc, a 92-point wine, is made from 100 per cent Cabernet Franc that was aged in French oak between eight and 10 months. It has an intense violet colour and expresses aromas of black and red fruit with pepper and mineral notes. In the mouth it has a full body with a fruity mid-palate expressiory and persistent finish.

Gaia Organic Rosé is a 90-point wine comprising 100 per cent Pinot Noir from vineyards in Tupungato located approximately 4,000 feet above sea level. Gaia, the Greek goddess of the earth, has been the Bousquet family’s inspiration since the winery’s founding in 1997. Pale and pretty crystal-clear pink, this wine has aromas of strawberries and red berries with orange zest and floral notes. It is lively with a creamy mid-palate in the mouth having lively acidity.

Domaine Bousquet Traditionelle Organic Sparkling Brut is a 92-point espumante made from 75 per cent Chardonnay and 25 per cent Pinot Noir using the “méthode traditionelle” (Champagne-style). Yellow and brilliant in colour with delicate bubbles, the wine has rich tropical fruit aromas with strawberry, citrus, and floral notes. On the palate, it shows notes of fresh fruits in combination with a soft texture and a nice and persistent finish.

As Domaine Bousquet looks towards the future, their commitment to sustainability and quality remains unwavering. From the vineyard to the bottle, each step of the winemaking process is carried out with precision and care, resulting in wines that capture the essence of Tupungato Valley and showcase Argentina’s potential as a world-class wine producer. As wine lovers continue to seek out authentic and environmentally conscious options, Domaine Bousquet remains a beacon of inspiration and innovation in the world of wine. Salud!