Organic farming
Protecting ecosystems, biodiversity and soil life by prioritising products free from synthetic organic molecules: that, in essence, is what the French AB label and the European organic certification stand for.
In 2024, 24% of Bordeaux’s vineyard area is certified organic or in conversion to organic farming.
The Euro-leaf: the European organic label
Easily recognisable by its white leaf on a green background, framed by stars, the Euro‑leaf certifies compliance with European regulations governing organic agriculture.
To earn this label, winegrowers must adhere to the organic viticulture specifications, including two key principles:
- Vines used to produce organic wine must not have received any synthetic chemical treatments for at least three years;
- In organic vineyards, growers may use natural plant-protection products, such as copper or sulphur. Strict maximum limits apply: copper use is capped per hectare, while sulphur (also known as sulphites) is regulated in milligrams per litre.
AB : the french organic label
What do the two letters AB stand for? Quite simply, “Agriculture Biologique” — organic farming.
This French certification shares the same standards as the Euro‑leaf, which is why both logos may appear side by side on a bottle, jointly attesting to its organic viticulture.
Would you like to learn more about these two labels and organic wines? Head to the Agence Bio website for further insights.
