The Beginner's Guide to Natural Wine

It's all the rage at the local wine bar! It can be funky or very different from your normal go to by the glass wine! Does it actually stack up against the standard wine you are used to ordering? Yes. Let's go over some things that you should know before you jump into the deep end of Natural Wine.

What is Natural Wine?

Natural wine is wine made with minimal intervention in both the vineyard and the winery. It's a return to traditional wine-making methods, focusing on organic or biodynamic farming and avoiding additives and technological processes.

Key Characteristics

1. Organic or Biodynamic Farming: Grapes are grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers.
2. Hand-Harvested: Grapes are typically picked by hand.
3. Native Yeasts: Fermentation is carried out using wild yeasts naturally present in the vineyard and winery.
4. No Additives: Natural wines avoid additives like sulfites, which are commonly used in conventional winemaking to preserve wine.
5. Minimal Manipulation: Processes like filtration, fining, or temperature control are kept to a minimum.

Taste and Appearance

Natural wines often have a distinctive taste and appearance compared to conventional wines:

• Flavor: More vibrant, with unique, sometimes funky flavors that reflect the terroir and the natural fermentation process.
• Appearance: Can be cloudy due to lack of filtration, and may have a wider range of colors.

Benefits

1. Can be a Healthier Option: Fewer chemicals and additives can mean fewer headaches and hangovers.
2. Environmental Sustainability: Organic and biodynamic practices are better for the environment.
3. Unique Expression: Each bottle can be unique, offering a true expression of the vineyard and vintage.

Challenges

1. Stability: Natural wines can be less stable and may spoil more quickly.
2. Availability: They can be harder to find and are often produced in smaller quantities.
3. Price: Generally, natural wines can be more expensive due to the labor-intensive practices involved.

How to Choose Natural Wine

1. Look for Certifications: While there is no official certification for natural wine, organic and biodynamic certifications are good indicators.
2. Ask for Recommendations: Wine shops with knowledgeable staff can guide you to good natural wine selections.
3. Try Different Styles: Natural wine comes in a wide range of styles, from light and fresh to rich and complex.

Conclusion

Natural wine is a fascinating and rapidly growing segment of the wine world. It emphasizes purity, sustainability, and a connection to the land. While it may require some exploration to find your favorites, the unique flavors and stories behind each bottle make it a worthwhile journey for any wine enthusiast.