What Is Natural Wine? A Deep Dive into the Trend
Over the past few years, natural wine has surged in popularity, making its way from niche wine bars to mainstream restaurants and retailers. But despite its growing presence, many people are still unsure about what natural wine actually is. Is it healthier? Does it taste different? And why is it often more expensive? In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of natural wine—what it is, how it’s made, and why it’s capturing the attention of wine lovers worldwide.
What Exactly Is Natural Wine?
Natural wine is often described as “nothing added, nothing taken away.” It’s made from grapes grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers. Most natural wine producers use organic or biodynamic farming practices to cultivate their vineyards, respecting both the environment and the natural ecosystem.
In the winery, the philosophy continues. Natural winemakers use native yeasts (the wild yeasts found on grape skins and in the environment) to ferment their wines instead of commercial yeasts. They avoid additives such as sugar, acidifiers, tannins, and enzymes. Many natural wines are also bottled without fining or filtration, leaving them cloudy or with sediment in the bottle. Some are made without added sulfites, though this varies by producer.
How Is Natural Wine Different from Conventional Wine?
The biggest difference lies in the production process. Conventional winemaking often involves a range of interventions designed to control fermentation, stabilize the wine, and create a consistent flavor profile. While these techniques result in polished and predictable wines, they can also strip away some of the wine’s natural characteristics.
Natural wines, on the other hand, are all about letting the grapes and terroir speak for themselves. Because they’re made with minimal intervention, natural wines can vary significantly from bottle to bottle, even within the same vintage. They often have bold, unexpected flavors—some fruity and vibrant, others earthy and funky. The texture might be slightly fizzy or cloudy, and the aroma can be anything from fresh fruit to barnyard funk.
Why Are People Choosing Natural Wine?
Many people are drawn to natural wine because of its perceived health benefits. The lack of additives, lower sulfite levels, and organic farming methods appeal to those looking for a cleaner, more “authentic” product. Others appreciate the environmental aspect; natural winemaking tends to be more sustainable and focuses on small-batch, artisanal production.
But perhaps the biggest reason for its rise is the sense of adventure it offers. Drinking natural wine is often unpredictable—in a good way. Each bottle is a reflection of nature and the winemaker’s hands-off approach, resulting in unique flavors that challenge traditional ideas about what wine should taste like.
Things to Keep in Mind When Trying Natural Wine
If you’re new to natural wine, there are a few things to consider. First, not all natural wines taste the same. Some are funky and wild, while others are clean and fruit-forward. It helps to ask for recommendations from a knowledgeable shop or sommelier.
Second, because natural wines are often unfiltered and made with fewer preservatives, they can be more fragile. They may have shorter shelf lives and can change quickly once opened.
Lastly, embrace the unexpected! Natural wine isn’t about perfection or consistency—it’s about discovering something new and authentic with every sip.
Conclusion
Natural wine is more than just a trend; it’s a return to old-school, traditional winemaking with a modern, eco-conscious twist. Whether you love it or find it challenging, there’s no denying its growing influence in the wine world. So why not grab a bottle, pour a glass, and experience it for yourself? You might be surprised by what you find.