Isn’t all wine . . . natural?

An explanation of Natural Wine and how it differs from most wine you see on store shelves.

Wine, that age-old elixir, has a long and storied history. However, in recent years, a new wave of wine enthusiasts and winemakers have been championing an age-old, but often overlooked approach: natural wine. It’s not just another passing trend; it’s a movement that’s shaking up the world of wine. In this article, we’ll explore what natural wine is and how it differs from conventional wine, offering wine aficionados a deeper understanding of the complexity and charm of this increasingly popular drink.

What is Natural Wine?

Natural wine is a return to the roots of winemaking, a throwback to a time before the mechanization of the industry. Unlike conventional wines, natural wines are made with minimal intervention from the vineyard to the bottle. Here are some key characteristics of natural wine:

1. Minimal Intervention: Natural winemakers aim to let the grapes express themselves without excessive interference. They avoid additives and manipulations commonly used in conventional winemaking, such as sugar, commercial yeast, and additives for acidity and tannin.
2. Organic or Biodynamic Farming: Many natural wine producers prioritize organic or biodynamic farming practices. They steer clear of synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilizers, instead opting for methods that promote soil health and biodiversity.
3. Wild Fermentation: Instead of using commercial yeast strains, natural winemakers rely on the wild yeasts present in the vineyard and on the grapes. This approach results in a fermentation process that’s unique to each location and vintage.
4. No Filtering or Fining: Natural wines are typically unfiltered and unfined. This means they might appear cloudy or have sediment, but it preserves the wine’s natural character and flavor.

How Does Natural Wine Differ from Conventional Wine?

Now that we’ve outlined the key features of natural wine, let’s delve into how it differs from the conventional wine you’re used to drinking:

1. Additives and Manipulations: Conventional winemaking often involves the use of additives and manipulations to control the wine’s flavor, stability, and appearance. Natural winemaking, on the other hand, seeks to avoid these additives, allowing the wine to develop with minimal interference.
2. Sulfites: Natural wine usually contains lower levels of sulfites compared to conventional wine. Sulfites are a common preservative used in winemaking, but they can cause allergic reactions in some people. Natural winemakers use them sparingly or not at all.
3. Variability: Natural wines can display a wider range of flavors and aromas compared to conventional wines. This variability is a result of the unique conditions and wild yeast fermentations, making each bottle a surprise waiting to be uncorked.
4. Terroir Expression: Natural wines often offer a more authentic expression of terroir—the combination of soil, climate, and location that influences grape characteristics. They reflect the specificities of the vineyard, making each wine a genuine reflection of its origins.
5. Artisanal Approach: Conventional winemaking is often associated with large-scale production, while natural wine production is frequently artisanal and small-scale. Natural winemakers tend to prioritize quality over quantity, showcasing the craftsmanship of the winemaker.

Natural wine is a return to the basics of winemaking. It values authenticity, sustainability, and the celebration of the grape’s inherent character. While natural wine might not be for everyone, it offers a unique and unadulterated experience for those looking to savor the true essence of the grape and the land from which it springs. In the world of wine, where tradition often reigns supreme, natural wine is a delightful rebel, reminding us that sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest.

Give it a try if you haven’t already! Visit our shop page and order a few bottles today. We ship to most states.

Happy Sipping!