Biodynamic group respekt-Biodyn adds new members

The Austrian-based biodynamic winery association, respekt-Biodyn, has announced that two new estates have joined its ranks; Sven Leiner and Sattlerhof.

The new additions brings the total membership of the group to 25, principally from Germany and Austria as well as Hungary and Italy, with the 17 Austrian members accounting for one-tenth of the country’s organic vineyards (630 hectares).

The Leiner winery in the southern Palatinate region of Germany is considered a biodynamic pioneer in the area. Founded in 1974, the winery was certified organic in 2005 and Demeter-certified in 2011. Winemaker Sven Leiner was nominated for ‘Winemaker of the Year’ by Germany’s Falstaff magazine in 2020.

The Sattlerhof winery in Styria, has been certified organic since 2016 and is currently in conversion to biodynamics under the auspices of respekt, meaning it has been accepted as a member under conversion for the moment.

respekt-Biodyn was founded as a biodynamic certification body and winemaker association in 2007 and today includes a number of leading German and Austrian producers such as Judith Beck, Loimer, Anita & Hans Nittnaus, Ott, Gerhard & Brigitte Pittnauer, Claus Preisinger and Wittmann.

Chairman Michael Goëss-Enzenberg, said: “We are growing in a very targeted way and always with one eye on our high quality standards and our harmonious cooperation. Sven Leiner and Willi Sattler and his sons fit in perfectly. We are pleased and proud of these valuable additions.”