What's the deal with Natural Wine?

Natural wine is a term that has been gaining popularity in recent years. While there is no official definition, natural wine is generally understood to be wine made from grapes that are grown without synthetic pesticides and herbicides, and that is fermented without the addition of any artificial yeasts, enzymes, or other additives.

In essence, natural wine is a return to traditional winemaking methods, where the focus is on the quality of the grapes and the terroir (the environmental factors that influence the grapes' growth) rather than on the use of chemicals and other interventions.

One of the main differences between natural wine and conventional wine is that natural wine is made using wild yeasts that are naturally present in the vineyard and winery. These yeasts are not selected or cultured, which means that the fermentation process can be less predictable and more variable than with commercial yeasts.

Another key difference is that natural wine is typically bottled without fining or filtering. Fining is the process of adding agents such as bentonite or egg whites to clarify the wine, while filtering involves passing the wine through a filter to remove any remaining particles. Natural wine producers often argue that fining and filtering can strip the wine of its natural character and flavor, and can also remove beneficial compounds such as tannins and antioxidants.

Proponents of natural wine argue that it offers a more authentic expression of the grapes and the terroir, and that it can also be healthier and more environmentally sustainable than conventional wine. Some natural wine producers also follow biodynamic or organic farming practices, which can further enhance the wine's natural qualities.

However, critics of natural wine argue that the lack of additives and interventions can lead to unpredictable and inconsistent quality, and that the wine can sometimes have off-flavors or aromas. Additionally, the lack of fining and filtering can result in cloudy or hazy wine, which some consumers may find unappealing.

In conclusion, natural wine is a type of wine that is made using traditional winemaking methods and without the use of synthetic chemicals or additives. While it is not without its controversies, it offers a unique and authentic expression of the grapes and the terroir, and is an increasingly popular choice for consumers who value sustainability, health, and taste.