A study in biodynamic, all-natural wines in Vail

Larkspur wine director Kevin Furtado speaks with authority and passion when he describes biodyamic farming and the impact it has on the wine industry.

“When a farmer takes on biodynamic methods, it is a huge commitment and an impressive lesson in faith,” he said. “Biodynamics is to farming what yoga is to the body.”

What is biodynamic farming? It's the interrelationship of the soil, plants and animals as a closed, self-nourishing system. It focuses on the health of the soil by observing the cycles of the earth that affect seeding, propagating, growing and harvesting.

Master Sommelier Brett Zimmerman of Domaine Select Wines will be a guest speaker at Larkspur's Wine University on Thursday.

“Brett has 20 years in the food and wine business,” Furtado said. “He and I became colleagues about four years ago and fast friends when we discovered we shared a passion for tasting and discussing wines. He is very accomplished in his profession and I know the students at Wine U will love his style.”

Zimmerman will focus on European artisan winemakers at the class. He has chosen regional wines that have characteristics true to their area, and all are biodynamic.

“I hope to show the attendees the expression, diversity, character and tradition found in small family estates that have committed to the biodynamic methods,” Zimmerman said.

Now in its second year, Wine University is a weekly educational tasting class at Larkspur. Furtado has introduced many new elements to the weekly theme in addition to the tasting of that week's wines, including guest speakers, video presentations and classes held outside on nice evenings. The series will continue through the month of August, on Thursday nights from 6 to 7 p.m. Cost is $40 per person. For reservations call 970-754-8050.