Several specifications correspond to these names. If we very often hear about sulphites, rightly accused of causing headaches, many other products can be used in the composition of so-called conventional wines.
Here is an overview of the different organic, biodynamic and natural specifications:
The organic specifications (AB label) prohibit any use of synthetic chemicals in the vineyards and in the winery. However, it allows some oenological crutches during winemaking. Sulfites, for example, are tolerated up to 100 mg/L for red wines and 150 mg/L for whites.
In biodynamics (Demeter or Biodyvin label), the winemaker not only works without synthetic chemicals, but also takes into account the lunar calendar for all the operations he carries out. He will also use biodynamic preparations (fermented horn dung, silica, plant herbal tea, etc.) to strengthen the vines. Overall, the winegrower seeks to include the cultivation of the vine in a global environment. Sulphites can go up to 70 mg/L for reds and 90 mg/L for whites.
In natural wine (Vin Method Nature label), the specifications specify the use of organic grapes, fermenting naturally using native yeasts (as in biodynamics). Natural wines see no input during all vinification and aging. Only minimum doses of SO2 are permitted (30 mg/L maximum), and must be mentioned by the winemaker. No brutal filtration or wine alteration techniques are permitted. We also find the name SAINS Wines which aims to completely prohibit the use of sulphites.