The vinification process used by Eden and his chief winemaker, Benji Darnault, does not destroy the energy, no artificial yeasts are added and they nurture the wine and let it settle.
Using biodynamics and working to a calender produced by Maria Thun, who has been experimenting with many varied plants for 20 years, they take into account the position of the sun, moon and planets before planting, harvesting, cultivating or pruning. Plants and the soil are affected by Lunar cycles and their magnetic forces. If the moon is in a downward cycle, it is a good time to plant. Putting compost down to stimulate the roots should be done on a root day and when spraying against mildew, choose a leaf day.
Eden is very aware of climatic change giving the rainforest as a perfect example of how an ecosystem works in complete harmony. The four wines produced at Come Cathare are named after medicinal plants that grow in the rainforests of Madagascar and South America. Una de Gato - Cats Claw is a cleanser and healer, good for immune disorders and treats conditions from arthritis to ulcers. Catharanthus roseus, the beautiful periwinkle flower, is a vital drug ingredient for childhood leukemia. 50 pence from every bottle goes to support the Rainforest Foundation.
Believing in companion-planting, planting within the rows a herb or a plant that is beneficial, Eden uses mustard on one of his soils which has nitrogen in its roots and is a great stimulator. Also used are peas, beans or radishes as ground cover to shelter the soil during the hot season. These are ploughed back into the soil which is alive and the many organisms within it are also alive and filled with spirit. Just as man has a spirit - the force of energy that lifts, enlivens and fills with light.
Le Relais De Pigasse has just earned its first Michelle Star which puts this vineyard well on the map. Perhaps we will soon be able to purchase some of Eden's great wines here in Southern California. After all if people in Canada, the UK, and all over Europe can, why not here.
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