For the Demeter-certified Biodynamic: Luna, three Irish growers, Trevor Harris, Alan Mooney and John McDonnell, stepped up to the challenge of applying unusual agricultural practices to growing barley. Applying esoteric principles derived from a 1924 series of lectures by the Austrian polymath Rudolf Steiner. Steiner created a codified agricultural system for post-WW1 farmers, who were worried about agricultural industrialisation, land degradation and the loss of ancient farming practices . Adopted by the world’s greatest wine producers, seeking the ultimate expression of pure and intense flavours, biodynamics today stands at the cutting edge of regenerative agriculture.
The approach includes an array of seemingly controversial practices such as burying manure-packed cow horns to ‘ferment’ underground; the creation of simple plant treatments and natural compost fertilisers to stimulate microbial activity; all following the natural rhythms of the lunar calendar. The purpose is to produce vibrant, chemical-free, living soil. As barley makes malt whisky the most complex spirit in the world – the very source of its flavour – biodynamics will contribute to an even purer and more intense expression.
Tasting Notes:
Nose:
Straight and rich. Plum, apricot marmalade, fresh fruit salad, iced coffee, lemon cake, milk chocolate and almonds, notes of herbal tea and freshly cut hay, with a nice minerality.
Palate:
Tight, spicy and vegetal. The spices (cloves, white pepper) are found throughout the tasting, accompanied in turn by notes of dark chocolate, licorice, malt and grapefruit, but also vegetable flavors of great originality for a whiskey, such as green peppers, jalapeños, or peppermint tea.
Finish:
Delicate and complex. The bouquet of spices on the palate continues to develop, with a slight acidity worthy of great dry white wines.