From a climatic perspective, summer 2016 in Valais was one of contrasts. Days of intense summer heat gave way to rainy and cool days. Weather conditions that are unfortunately highly favorable to fungi such as powdery mildew and downy mildew, the latter having been particularly active in Valais. Winegrowers who cultivate their vines organically therefore had their work cut out for them, as the attacks were both unexpected and severe.
In some cases, the damage was irreparable. Some of our colleagues in the canton of Vaud also experienced this bitter reality. Many of them were tempted by organic viticulture for the first time this year, and some now find themselves with parcels almost completely devastated by disease. Should organic viticulture therefore be called into question?
In Valais, 35 hectares are cultivated according to the organic viticulture specifications (Bio Suisse). Our estate manages a large portion of its parcels according to these same specifications. Herbicides have been virtually banned for several decades already. There is no question of turning back; our winegrowers have a duty to respect the environment. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry rightly said, "We do not inherit the earth from our parents, we borrow it from our children." Those who respect organic principles are obliged to work the vines more frequently; the work is more demanding, more meticulous, and yields are sometimes meager. The earth and future generations will be grateful to them—let us never forget that.
