Waterford Distillery, renowned for producing the largest range of organic and biodynamic whiskies globally, has just added a groundbreaking release to its core collection: Biodynamic: Cuvée Luna. This new flagship single malt is now available worldwide and showcases Waterford’s commitment to biodynamic farming, a method more commonly seen in the world’s finest wines.
Certified by both Demeter and the Organic Trust, Cuvée Luna is crafted entirely from Irish barley grown using biodynamic practices, a regenerative farming approach that’s often referred to as “supercharged organic.” These farming methods, first introduced a century ago as a response to the rise of chemical-based agriculture after World War I, emphasize natural soil health and ecological balance.
At the heart of biodynamic farming is the idea that the farm is a self-sustaining ecosystem. Waterford Distillery has fully embraced this philosophy, nurturing vibrant soil and healthy barley crops with organic preparations that align with the ancient lunar calendar. This approach has long been favored by top-tier winemakers and now brings a new level of complexity to whisky production.
Waterford collaborates with a small group of biodynamic Irish farmers, including Trevor Harris, John McDonnell, and Alan Mooney, to cultivate the barley used in their whisky. The distillery first introduced biodynamic whisky to the world in 2021, as part of its Arcadian Farm Origin series, and has since expanded its network of biodynamic growers to six.
Cuvée Luna represents an innovative blend of several biodynamic harvests, meticulously matured in a range of cask types for maximum complexity. The whisky has been aged in 37% First-fill American Oak, 17% Virgin American Oak, 25% Premium French Oak, and 21% Vin Doux Naturel casks, resulting in a harmonious balance of flavors.
The whisky offers a layered tasting experience, featuring notes of green apple, malted biscuits, hay, and peaches, with subtle hints of lemon curd, herbal tea, cream, and spices. The finish is long, creamy, and lightly spiced, building on the distillery’s signature artisanal bakery aromas.
Mark Reynier, CEO and Founder of Waterford Distillery, describes the significance of biodynamic farming in whisky production:
“While some may find it controversial, biodynamic farming is seen by many as the pinnacle of regenerative agriculture. The world’s top winemakers have long turned to these methods to achieve the most vibrant and natural flavors possible. Unfortunately, whisky production has drifted toward industrialization, sacrificing barley’s rich, natural flavor for higher yields. We’re taking whisky back to its roots, not just in production but in farming, by utilizing every grain of biodynamic barley we can source.”
Each bottle of Biodynamic: Cuvée Luna comes with a unique TÉIREOIR CODE, allowing customers to trace the entire journey of the whisky from the barley fields to the bottle. This commitment to transparency is a hallmark of Waterford’s approach, ensuring that every detail of the whisky’s creation is made accessible.
Representing the peak of Waterford Distillery’s exploration of regenerative single malt production, Cuvée Luna is its boldest and most innovative release to date.
