Château Maris in the south of France is one of the most environmentally friendly wineries in the world. Winemaker Robert Eden believes that «Every single person can make a difference every day.» For this reason, his vineyards are now diverse gardens bursting with life: beets and roses grow between the vines, while hedges and trees provide habitats for animals. The soil is protected and minimally tilled so that it remains alive and can absorb more carbon. Even the wine cellar is entirely vegetation-based! The construction consists of wooden supports, hemp tiles, and a grass roof. «The whole building could be composted,» Eden says with a laugh. The British-born artist is a visionary, free spirit and joker all in one. Since 2002 he has been fully committed to the biodynamic method of cultivation according to Rudolf Steiner: «What happens, grows, and lives around the vine clearly influences the quality and taste of the grapes.» This is not just a matter of biodiversity and Moon phases: it is also about the people who have an impact on nature. Good, healthy employment conditions form the basis, and the goal is harmonious togetherness: «if there is no community or social interaction at work, there is always a good reason for this - the work is too hard. It should be a joyful flow!» People should have fun doing things together, rather than working with frustration and stress. There's no doubt about it: it's good to live in the Garden of Eden. We'd like a slice - or a wine glass - of that!