Natural wine is a term that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It refers to wine that is produced with minimal intervention, using traditional or organic methods. Natural wine is not a new concept, but it has gained more attention due to the growing interest in sustainable and organic products.
Key Takeaways
- Natural wine is produced with minimal intervention and using traditional or organic methods.
- It is generally made without the use of pesticides or herbicides and with few or no additives.
- The result is a wine that is unfiltered, unrefined, and often cloudy, with a unique flavor profile that reflects the terroir and the winemaker’s style.
So what exactly is natural wine? While there is no official definition, natural wine is generally produced without the use of pesticides or herbicides and with few or no additives. The grapes are grown without synthetic fertilizers, and the wine is made using traditional techniques, such as fermenting with wild yeast and aging in oak barrels. The result is a wine that is unfiltered, unrefined, and often cloudy, with a unique flavor profile that reflects the terroir and the winemaker’s style.
What is Natural Wine
Natural wine is an unadulterated, living wine made from fermented grape juice. It is a type of wine that is made with minimal intervention in the vineyard and the cellar. The term “natural wine” is not officially defined, but generally refers to wines that are made without the use of chemical pesticides and herbicides, with minimal sulfites, and using wild yeasts found in the vineyards rather than those that are commercially produced.
Natural wines are often described as “raw” or “natty.” They are unfiltered and unrefined, which gives them a cloudy appearance and a unique taste that is different from conventional wines. Some natural wines taste more like a sour beer or kombucha than a typical wine.
The production of natural wine is a return to traditional winemaking practices that have been used for centuries. It is a rejection of modern winemaking techniques that rely on additives and industrial processes to produce consistent and uniform wines.
Natural wine is not a fad or a trend. It is a movement that is gaining popularity among wine lovers who are looking for a more authentic and honest expression of the grape. Natural wine is not just a drink, it is a philosophy and a way of life. It is a celebration of nature and the unique terroir of each vineyard.
Origins of Natural Wine
Natural wine is not a new concept in the wine industry. In fact, some sources claim that the movement started with winemakers in the Beaujolais region of France in the 1960s. These winemakers, led by Jules Chauvet, began to question the use of chemicals and additives in winemaking and sought to return to more traditional methods.
Chauvet, a chemist and winemaker, believed that the use of chemicals and additives in winemaking was destroying the natural flavors and aromas of the grapes. He advocated for the use of traditional methods, such as natural fermentation, and the avoidance of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
The Beaujolais region became known for its natural wines, which were made using traditional methods and minimal intervention. These wines were often cloudy and had a unique flavor profile that was different from the more commercial wines of the time.
Over time, the natural wine movement spread beyond France and gained popularity in other parts of Europe and the United States. Today, natural wine is a growing trend in the wine industry, with more and more winemakers adopting traditional methods and eschewing chemicals and additives.
In summary, the origins of natural wine can be traced back to the Beaujolais region of France in the 1960s, when winemakers began to question the use of chemicals and additives in winemaking. Led by Jules Chauvet, these winemakers sought to return to traditional methods and produce wines that were true to the natural flavors and aromas of the grapes. Today, natural wine is a growing trend in the industry, with more and more winemakers adopting these traditional methods.
Production of Natural Wine
Making natural wine involves a set of winemaking practices that are intended to minimize human intervention in the process and to produce a wine that is as close to nature as possible. In this section, we will discuss the three main stages of natural wine production: Vineyards, Fermentation, and Cellaring.
Vineyards
Natural wine production begins in the vineyard. Natural winemakers prefer to work with small-scale, independent vineyards that practice sustainable, organic, or biodynamic farming. These vineyards avoid using pesticides and herbicides and instead rely on natural methods to control pests and diseases. They also use dry-farming techniques, which means they do not irrigate the vines. This results in lower yields but produces grapes with more concentrated flavors.
Fermentation
The fermentation stage of natural wine production is where the magic happens. Natural winemakers use native yeasts that are present on the grape skins instead of commercial yeasts. This allows for a slower and more complex fermentation process that results in a wine with more character and terroir. No additives are included in fermentation such as yeast nutrients. The wine is fermented with as little intervention as possible.
Cellaring
After fermentation, the wine is transferred to the cellar for aging. Natural winemakers avoid using new oak barrels, which can impart strong flavors and aromas to the wine. Instead, they use neutral vessels such as old oak barrels or concrete tanks. This allows the wine to develop its own unique character without being influenced by the vessel it is aged in. Little or no sulfites are added to the wine during the aging process.
Characteristics of Natural Wine
When it comes to natural wine, there are a few characteristics that set it apart from conventional wines. In this section, we’ll explore the appearance, aroma, flavor, and body of natural wine.
Appearance
One of the most noticeable characteristics of natural wine is its appearance. Unlike conventional wines that are often filtered and fined, natural wines are typically unfiltered and unfined. This means that they may appear cloudy or hazy in the glass, which is due to the presence of sediment and yeast. While some people may find this appearance unappealing, others see it as a sign that the wine is unadulterated and authentic.
Aroma
Natural wines are known for their funky, earthy, and yeasty aromas. This is because natural winemakers often rely on wild yeasts to ferment the grapes, rather than using commercial yeasts. As a result, the wine may have a more complex and diverse aroma profile than conventional wines. Some natural wines may even smell like yogurt or German Hefeweizen.
Flavor
The flavor of natural wine can vary widely depending on the winemaker’s approach and the grape varietal. However, natural wines are generally less fruity and more savory than conventional wines. They may have flavors of herbs, spices, and earthy undertones. Some natural wines may also have a slight effervescence, which is a result of the fermentation process.
Body
Natural wines tend to have a lighter body than conventional wines. This is because natural winemakers often use minimal intervention techniques, which means that they let the grapes and the terroir speak for themselves. As a result, the wine may have a more delicate and nuanced body. However, this doesn’t mean that natural wines lack complexity or depth. In fact, some natural wines can be quite complex and age-worthy.
Overall, the characteristics of natural wine are what make it unique and appealing to many wine enthusiasts. While natural wine may not be for everyone, it offers a refreshing alternative to conventional wines and a glimpse into the world of authentic winemaking.
Natural Wine vs. Conventional Wine
When it comes to wine, there are two main categories: natural wine and conventional wine. The main difference between the two is the way they are produced. Conventional wines are made using additives and chemicals in the vineyard and winery, whereas natural wines are often described as “nothing added, nothing taken away.”
One of the biggest differences between natural and conventional wines is the use of sulfites. Sulfites are a preservative that is often used in conventional wines to prevent spoilage and oxidation. Natural winemakers either use no added sulfites or use them in small quantities, while conventional winemakers use up to 10 times as much. This means that natural wines tend to have lower levels of sulfites, which can be beneficial for people who are sensitive to them.
Another difference between natural and conventional wines is the use of pesticides and herbicides. Conventional winemakers often use these chemicals to control pests and weeds in the vineyard. Natural winemakers, on the other hand, use organic or biodynamic farming methods to promote biodiversity and soil health. This means that natural wines are often made from grapes that are grown without the use of synthetic chemicals.
Manipulation is another area where natural and conventional wines differ. Conventional winemakers often manipulate the wine during the winemaking process to achieve a specific flavor profile. This can involve adding sugar, acid, or tannins to the wine, as well as using new oak barrels to impart flavor. Natural winemakers, on the other hand, allow the wine to ferment and age without much intervention. This means that natural wines tend to have a more “natural” flavor profile, with more variation between vintages.
Finally, conventional wines often use sulfur dioxide as a stabilizer and preservative. This can help prevent oxidation and spoilage, but it can also mask the natural flavors of the wine. Natural winemakers use little or no sulfur dioxide, which means that their wines are more likely to have a unique and distinctive flavor profile.
Overall, the main difference between natural and conventional wines is the way they are produced. Natural wines are made with minimal intervention, using organic or biodynamic farming methods and little or no additives. Conventional wines, on the other hand, are often made using synthetic chemicals and additives to achieve a specific flavor profile. While both types of wine have their own unique characteristics, natural wine is becoming increasingly popular due to its focus on sustainability and minimal intervention.
Natural Wine Producers
We, as natural wine enthusiasts, are always on the lookout for producers who share our values and commitment to producing wine that is both delicious and environmentally friendly. Natural wine producers are those who use minimal intervention in the vineyard and in the cellar, allowing the grapes to express themselves fully and creating wines that are unique, complex, and alive.
Many natural wine producers are small-scale, independent producers who are passionate about their craft and committed to sustainable and organic farming practices. These producers often work with small vineyards and use traditional, non-industrial methods to produce their wines.
One such producer is Les Capriades, a small producer in the Loire Valley of France that specializes in sparkling natural wines. Their wines are made with minimal intervention, using only indigenous yeasts and no added sulfites. Their wines are complex, with a range of flavors and aromas that reflect the terroir of the region.
Another natural wine producer that we admire is Gut Oggau, a family-run winery in Austria that produces biodynamic wines. Their wines are made with minimal intervention, using only natural yeasts and no added sulfites. They believe that the health of the vineyard is essential to the health of the wine, and they work hard to maintain a healthy ecosystem in their vineyards.
Finally, we cannot forget about the small producers who are making natural wines all over the world. These producers are often overlooked by the mainstream wine industry, but they are doing important work in preserving traditional winemaking methods and promoting sustainable agriculture. We encourage you to seek out these producers and try their wines, as they are truly unique and special.
Benefits of Natural Wine
When it comes to wine, natural wine is often touted as a healthier option compared to conventional wines. While there is no scientific evidence to support this claim, there are some potential benefits to drinking natural wine.
Low-Intervention
One of the main benefits of natural wine is that it is made with minimal intervention. This means that the winemaker uses fewer additives and chemicals during the winemaking process. As a result, natural wine is often considered to be a more balanced and authentic expression of the grapes used to make it.
Environmentally-Friendly
Natural winemakers also tend to be more environmentally conscious. They often use organic or biodynamic farming practices, which are better for the soil and the surrounding ecosystem. Additionally, natural winemakers typically use less water and energy during the winemaking process.
Transparency
Another benefit of natural wine is that it is often more transparent. Natural winemakers are typically more open about their winemaking practices, which makes it easier for consumers to know what they are drinking. This transparency also helps to build trust between the winemaker and the consumer.
No Additives
Natural wine is made with no additives, which means that it doesn’t contain any sulfites or other preservatives. While this can sometimes result in a shorter shelf life, it also means that natural wine is less likely to cause a hangover.
Overall, while there is no definitive proof that natural wine is better for you than conventional wine, there are some potential benefits to drinking it. Natural wine is made with minimal intervention, is often more environmentally friendly, and is more transparent. Additionally, it is made with no additives, which can help to reduce the likelihood of a hangover.
Natural Wine Certification
Certification is an important aspect of natural wine. It helps consumers identify and purchase wines that meet certain criteria. However, unlike organic or biodynamic wines, there is no official certification for natural wines.
Some organizations have created their own certification programs for natural wine. One such program is the Certified Natural Wine program by the Natural Wine Authority. To receive this certification, a wine must score only in the Natural Wine range of all four scoring categories and have a total weighted score of over 90%.
Other organizations, such as Demeter and Ecocert, offer certification programs for biodynamic and organic wines. While these certifications do not specifically certify natural wines, they do provide some assurance that the wine was produced using sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.
It is important to note that not all natural wines are certified and not all certified wines are natural. Certification can be a helpful tool for consumers, but it is not the only way to identify natural wines. Some natural wine producers may choose not to seek certification due to the cost and bureaucracy involved in the process.
In conclusion, while there is no official certification for natural wine, some organizations have created their own certification programs. Certification can be a helpful tool for consumers, but it is not the only way to identify natural wines.
Buying Natural Wine
When it comes to buying natural wine, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you navigate the world of natural wine:
1. Look for Natural Wine Shops
Many wine shops now specialize in natural wines. These shops will have a selection of natural wines that have been carefully curated by the owners. They can also provide you with information about the winemakers and their practices. If you’re not sure where to find a natural wine shop, a quick online search should yield some results.
2. Read the Labels
When buying natural wine, it’s important to read the labels carefully. Look for wines that are made with organic or biodynamic grapes. These grapes are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Also, look for wines that are made with native yeasts. These yeasts are naturally occurring on the grapes and in the winery and are used to ferment the wine.
3. Consider the Region
Some regions are known for producing natural wines. For example, the Loire Valley in France is known for its natural wines. If you’re not sure where to start, consider trying wines from these regions.
4. Ask for Recommendations
If you’re new to natural wine, don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. Wine shop owners and employees are often passionate about natural wines and can provide you with recommendations based on your taste preferences.
5. Try Before You Buy
Many wine shops offer tastings, which is a great way to try before you buy. This is especially important when it comes to natural wines, which can have a unique flavor profile. Tastings can also help you discover new winemakers and regions.
By following these tips, you can confidently navigate the world of natural wine and find the perfect bottle for your taste preferences.