The best natural wines, celebrated for their minimal intervention and authentic expression of terroir, are gaining traction among wine enthusiasts seeking a purer, more sustainable drinking experience. With their unique flavours and production methods, natural wines offer a distinct contrast to conventional wines. Here’s a guide on what makes natural wines uk special and how to best enjoy them in comparison to conventional wines.
What is Natural Wine?
- Minimal Intervention: Natural wine is made with minimal chemical and technological intervention. This approach extends from the vineyard to the cellar, emphasizing organic or biodynamic farming practices and avoiding synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers.
- Natural Fermentation: Natural wines use native yeasts for fermentation, rather than commercial yeasts. This allows the wine to ferment more slowly and develop a complexity of flavours unique to its environment.
- Low Additives: Natural wines typically have little to no added sulfites or other additives. This contrasts with conventional wines, which may contain various additives for stabilization, colour, and flavour consistency.
Flavour Profiles and Aromas
- Unique and Diverse Flavors: Natural wines often exhibit a wider range of flavours and aromas, reflecting the true character of the grape and the terroir. They can range from bright and fruity to earthy and funky, sometimes with unexpected nuances due to the use of wild yeasts and minimal intervention.
- Variation and Authenticity: Each bottle of natural wine can be slightly different, even within the same vintage and vineyard. This variation adds to the charm, offering a more authentic and dynamic tasting experience compared to the standardized flavours of many conventional wines.
Ways to Enjoy Natural Wine
- Serve Slightly Chilled: While most red wines are served at room temperature, natural reds can benefit from being slightly chilled (around 55°F or 13°C). This can help to enhance their fresh and lively characteristics.
- Decanting and Aeration: Many natural wines, especially those with a bit of funk or sediment, can benefit from decanting. Allowing the wine to breathe for a bit can help mellow any initial harshness and open the bouquet of aromas and flavours.
- Embrace the Sediment: Sediment in natural wine is common and a sign of minimal filtration. Embrace it as part of the experience. If preferred, let the bottle stand upright for a while before pouring to allow the sediment to settle.
- Pairing with Food: Natural wines, with their often-vibrant acidity and unique flavour profiles, can be excellent companions to food. Pair natural whites with fresh, seasonal vegetables, seafood, and light poultry dishes. Natural reds, especially those with earthy and funky notes, pair well with charcuterie, grilled meats, and hearty stews.
Comparing to Conventional Wines
- Complexity vs. Consistency: Natural wines offer a complexity that comes from the variability of natural fermentation and minimal intervention. This can be a delightful contrast to the consistency of conventional wines, which are often crafted to taste the same year after year.
- Freshness and Vitality: Many natural wines exhibit a freshness and vitality that can be more pronounced than in conventional wines. This liveliness is due to the lack of additives and the preservation of the wine’s natural acids and flavours.
- Sensory Adventure: Drinking natural wine can be more of an adventure. Each bottle tells a story of its origin and the conditions under which it was made. This unpredictability can make the experience of drinking natural wine more engaging and rewarding.
Embracing the Natural Wine Movement
- Supporting Sustainability: By choosing natural wine, you support sustainable agricultural practices and small-scale producers who prioritize the health of the environment and the authenticity of their product.
- Exploring New Horizons: Natural wines encourage exploration and an open mind. They invite you to step out of your comfort zone and discover new tastes and sensations. Approach them with curiosity and a willingness to experience something different from conventional wine.
- Joining a community: The natural wine community is passionate and knowledgeable. Engaging with fellow enthusiasts, whether through local wine shops, online forums, or tasting events, can enhance your appreciation and understanding of natural wines.
Conclusion
Natural wines offer a distinct and enriching alternative to conventional wines. Their unique production methods, diverse flavours, and emphasis on sustainability make them a compelling choice for wine lovers. By embracing the ways to enjoy natural wine, from serving and pairing to appreciating their complexity, you can fully experience the vibrant world of natural wines. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious newcomer, natural wines invite you to explore, savour, and celebrate the true essence of wine.
