Our Natural wines

Natural wine is more than just a beverage; it's a philosophy, a movement, and for many, a way of life. It represents a return to traditional winemaking methods that eschew modern industrial processes in favor of minimal intervention and a deep respect for nature. 

The Philosophy Behind Natural Wine

The core philosophy of natural wine is rooted in minimal intervention. Winemakers who adhere to this philosophy aim to produce wine that reflects the true character of the grape, the terroir, and the vintage. This means avoiding the use of chemicals in the vineyard, relying on natural yeast for fermentation, and shunning additives during the winemaking process. 

Natural wine advocates argue that this method preserves the authentic taste of the wine, offering a more genuine and unadulterated drinking experience. The movement is often associated with organic and biodynamic farming practices, which emphasize soil health, biodiversity, and sustainability. 

The Role of Inputs and Sulphites

One of the central issues in the natural wine debate is the use of inputs and sulphites. Conventional winemaking often involves a range of additives to stabilize, preserve, and enhance the wine. These can include sugars, acids, tannins, and artificial yeasts. In contrast, natural winemakers strive to minimize or eliminate these inputs, allowing the wine to develop its own unique profile.

Sulphites are a contentious topic. While they occur naturally in all wines, additional sulphites are commonly added as preservatives to prevent oxidation and bacterial spoilage. Natural wine proponents aim to keep sulphite levels as low as possible, with many producing wines that are "zero-zero," meaning no added sulphites at all. 

The Origins of Natural Wine

The origins of natural wine can be traced back to France, where a small group of winemakers in the Beaujolais and Loire Valley regions began to reject industrial winemaking practices in the 1960s and 70s. Inspired by the teachings of Jules Chauvet, a chemist and winemaker, these pioneers championed the use of traditional methods and minimal intervention.

The movement gained momentum in the 1990s and early 2000s, spreading beyond France to Italy, Spain, and eventually to the United States, Australia, and other wine-producing regions around the world. Today, natural wine has become a global phenomenon, celebrated for its diversity and the artisanal approach of its producers.

Colors of Natural Wine: Orange and Red

Natural wines are renowned for their distinctive and sometimes unusual colors. Natural red wine, often characterized by its deep, unfiltered hues, showcases the rich, earthy tones of the grapes and terroir. These wines are typically robust and full-bodied, with complex flavors that evolve in the glass.

Natural orange wine, on the other hand, is made from white grapes that are fermented with their skins, a practice that gives the wine its distinctive amber or orange color. This ancient method, originating from Georgia (the country), results in wines with unique tannic structures and aromatic profiles, often featuring notes of dried fruit, nuts, and spices. Natural orange wine has gained popularity for its versatility and the intriguing sensory experience it offers.

Pet Nat Wines and Other Natural Varieties

Pet nat wines, short for pétillant naturel, are another exciting category within the natural wine spectrum. These sparkling wines are made using the traditional method where the wine is bottled before the primary fermentation is complete, resulting in a naturally effervescent drink. Pet nat wines are often cloudy and less predictably bubbly than their Champagne counterparts, but they are beloved for their rustic charm and lively, fresh flavors.

Natural wine represents a vibrant and growing segment of the wine industry that emphasizes authenticity, sustainability, and a deep connection to the land. With its roots in France and a philosophy that champions minimal intervention, natural wine offers a diverse array of flavors and styles. Whether it’s the boldness of natural red wine, the intriguing complexity of natural orange wine, or the effervescent delight of pet nat wines, there is a natural wine to suit every palate. As the movement continues to grow, it brings with it a renewed appreciation for traditional winemaking and the beauty of wine in its purest form.