The 10 Things You Should Know About Natural Wine
When it comes to wine, there's a growing trend towards natural and organic options. Natural wine is gaining popularity among wine enthusiasts for its unique characteristics and production methods. But what exactly is natural wine, and what sets it apart from conventional wines? In this blog post, we will uncover the 10 secrets of natural wine, giving you a deeper understanding of this fascinating and increasingly sought-after beverage.
1. Organic and Biodynamic Farming
Natural wine starts with organic and biodynamic farming practices. These methods prioritize the use of natural fertilizers, avoiding synthetic chemicals and pesticides. The grapes are grown in harmony with nature, resulting in healthier vines and a more sustainable ecosystem.
2. Hand-Harvested Grapes
Unlike conventional wines, natural wines are often made from hand-harvested grapes. This labor-intensive process ensures that only the best grapes are selected, leading to higher quality wines.
3. Wild Fermentation
Natural wine relies on wild fermentation, where the grapes' natural yeasts are used to convert the sugars into alcohol. This spontaneous fermentation process adds complexity and unique flavors to the wine.
4. Minimal Intervention
Natural winemakers believe in minimal intervention during the winemaking process. They avoid adding any additives or chemicals, allowing the wine to express its true character and terroir.
5. No Filtering or Fining
Unlike conventional wines, natural wines are typically unfiltered and unfined. This means that the wine retains more of its natural flavors and textures, resulting in a more authentic and vibrant drinking experience.
6. Low Sulfite Levels
Sulfites are often added to wines as a preservative, but natural wines have significantly lower sulfite levels. This makes them a great choice for those who are sensitive to sulfites or prefer wines with minimal additives.
7. Embracing Imperfections
Natural winemakers embrace the imperfections that can arise during the winemaking process. They believe that these imperfections add character and uniqueness to the wine, making each bottle a true reflection of its origin.
8. Indigenous Grape Varieties
Natural wines often showcase indigenous grape varieties, which are native to a specific region. These grapes have adapted to the local climate and soil, resulting in wines that are deeply connected to their terroir.
9. Minimal Sulphur Dioxide
Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is a common additive in winemaking, but natural wines limit its use. By reducing the amount of SO2, natural wines allow the true flavors and aromas of the grapes to shine through.
10. Living Wines
Natural wines are often referred to as "living wines" because they continue to evolve and develop in the bottle. They can exhibit different characteristics over time, offering a dynamic and ever-changing drinking experience.
Now that you know the secrets of natural wine, why not explore this fascinating world of organic, authentic, and expressive wines? Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply curious about trying something new, natural wines are sure to captivate your taste buds and provide a unique sensory experience.
