Natural wine: between myth and reality
“Natural wine” does that mean anything to you?
But we still need to know what is hidden behind this expression that has become commonplace. Between myths and realities, we decipher the movement for you.
What is natural wine?
Natural wine is a bit like the "back to basics" trend. It is made with grapes grown using organic or biodynamic methods, without chemical additives or inputs. The idea? Let nature express itself in every sip.
Purity in the heart
For a natural wine, the vinification takes a different turn. Indigenous yeasts - those naturally present on the grapes - lead the dance during fermentation. No addition of commercial yeasts. Just nature working its magic. The result? Wines that faithfully reflect the terroir and climate of their origin.
No filters, no collages: in vino veritas
Another key characteristic of natural wine? No filters or fining. Winemakers avoid over-manipulating the wine, preserving its authentic personality. This may mean a cloudier appearance or sediment in the bottle, but it’s a testament to its artisanal nature.
Natural wine vs conventional wine
Natural wines are often associated with a more minimalist approach. The grapes are pampered, without pesticides or herbicides. Fermentations are done using the natural yeasts present on the grapes. On the other hand, conventional wines can contain chemicals and more extensive interventions.
The controversies
Of course, natural wine is not immune to debate. Some say it is a matter of taste, others fear that the lack of control could result in inconsistent wines. But what is certain is that the movement is provoking reflection and pushing us to review our habits (see our article " Which wine is right for you?" ).
The “natural wine” label: the truth and the falsehood
- True: Natural wines are produced with little or no chemical intervention, letting nature take center stage.
- False: not all natural wines are necessarily "good" and some can even be unstable. The choice depends on the palate.
The taste of Authenticity
If you are looking for more authentic flavors and a more respectful approach to nature, natural wine might appeal to you. Each bottle tells a unique story of the terroir and the hands that shaped it.
As you will have understood, natural wine is much more than a passing trend. It is a movement that invites us to rethink our connection with the earth and our taste pleasures. And this, whether you are a great enthusiast or simply curious.
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Our other blog articles to help you become an expert :
Wine vocabulary: terms to know
How to taste a wine: the steps to follow
Choosing a good wine in 5 steps
Wine culture around the world: traditions and customs from elsewhere
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