This might just change your routine: Imagine a wine tasting where the first sip starts in the soil. DaVero Farms and Winery in Healdsburg is turning compost into a sensory journey, blending earthy science with elegant wine. On March 1, the farm hosts Worms to Wine: The Flavor of Compost, a workshop that strips back the curtain on how soil microbes, worms, and organic matter translate into the aromas and textures of a glass of wine. It’s not just about the vineyard—it’s about the compost pile, the unsung hero of sustainable farming.
The event, led by farm manager Andrew Beebe and soil keeper Michael Presley, demystifies composting as a dynamic process. Participants learn how to build healthy piles, recognize signs of imbalance, and connect those lessons to vineyard practices. The workshop splits time between classroom insights and hands-on exploration, with 1.5 hours of theory and 1.5 hours of fieldwork. Tasting isn’t an afterthought—it’s the final chapter. Two estate wines are paired with guided analysis, showing how soil health directly influences flavor. Compost isn’t just a byproduct; it’s a bridge between the earth and the glass.
The science is clear: compost boosts soil organic matter, improving water retention and structure in drought-prone conditions. For growers, this means steadier vines and more resilient crops. But the workshop goes deeper, framing compost as a strategic tool, not a trendy add-on. Attendees are encouraged to bring gloves, closed-toe shoes, and weather-appropriate layers—because this isn’t a passive sip-and-sip event. The practical prep mirrors the lesson itself: preparation is key to unlocking results.
Key points: The workshop blends theory and practice, showing how compost builds soil health that translates to wine quality. Compost isn’t just about sustainability—it’s a precise agricultural strategy. And the event’s small size ensures hands-on engagement, with no question left unheard.
What if the key to better wine starts beneath your feet.
What if the key to better wine starts beneath your feet?
Questions & Answers
How does DaVero turn compost into wine?
DaVero uses compost to create a base for wine by fermenting organic matter. The process mimics natural decomposition, producing a unique, earthy wine with a distinct flavor profile.
What’s the purpose of DaVero’s compost-to-wine method?
The method aims to showcase compost’s potential beyond gardening. It educates about sustainability and highlights the value of organic waste through a tasting experience.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
