Where Can I Buy Natural Wine?
Natural wine can be purchased from a variety of sources, including specialty wine shops, online retailers specializing in natural and organic wines, and increasingly, some conventional wine stores that have begun stocking select natural wines.
Introduction: The Rise of Natural Wine
The wine world is in constant flux, with trends coming and going faster than you can say “terroir.” But one movement seems to have genuine staying power: natural wine. Unlike conventionally produced wines, natural wines prioritize minimal intervention, allowing the grapes and the land they come from to truly speak. But where do you even find these increasingly popular, and often idiosyncratic, bottles? This article will guide you through the best places to source natural wine, offering expert insights and tips for navigating the sometimes-complex world of “natty” wines.
What is Natural Wine, Anyway?
Defining “natural wine” is tricky, as there’s no official certification or legal definition. However, the core principles remain consistent: minimal intervention throughout the winemaking process. Think of it as a return to simpler, more traditional methods.
- Organic or Biodynamic Farming: Grapes are grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers.
- Native Yeasts: Fermentation relies on the yeasts naturally present on the grapes, rather than commercial yeasts.
- Minimal Additives: Sulfur dioxide (SO2), a common preservative, is used sparingly (if at all), and other additives like enzymes, fining agents, and stabilizers are generally avoided.
- No Manipulations: Techniques like reverse osmosis, micro-oxygenation, and chaptalization (adding sugar) are typically eschewed.
Why Choose Natural Wine?
There are several compelling reasons to explore the world of natural wine:
- A Sense of Place: Natural winemaking aims to express the unique characteristics of the vineyard – its terroir – more authentically.
- Health Considerations: With fewer additives, many believe natural wines are a healthier choice. While scientific evidence is still evolving, reduced sulfite levels are often cited as a benefit.
- Environmental Sustainability: Organic and biodynamic farming practices promote soil health and biodiversity.
- Unique Flavors: Natural wines can offer a wider range of flavors and aromas compared to conventional wines, sometimes described as funky, earthy, or wild.
Finding Natural Wine: Your Options
Here’s a breakdown of the best places to find natural wine, along with their pros and cons:
| Source | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Specialty Wine Shops | Curated selection, knowledgeable staff, tasting opportunities, focus on small producers | Higher prices, limited selection in some areas |
| Online Retailers | Wide selection, convenience, competitive pricing, detailed product descriptions | Shipping costs, inability to taste before buying, potential for damage during shipping |
| Conventional Wine Stores | Increased availability, familiar environment, often lower prices | Limited selection, staff may lack expertise in natural wine, less emphasis on small producers |
| Wine Bars & Restaurants | Opportunity to try wines before committing to a bottle, often a curated selection, pairings with food | Higher markups, limited bottle selection for take-away |
| Direct from Producers | Authentic experience, potential for unique bottlings, supports small businesses directly | Requires travel or established relationships, minimum order quantities may apply |
| Wine Clubs | Curated selections delivered regularly, educational content, often focuses on specific regions or styles | Less control over individual bottle selection, potential for wines that don’t suit your taste |
Tips for Navigating the Natural Wine Aisle (or Website)
- Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations. Knowledgeable retailers are passionate about natural wine and happy to guide you.
- Read Descriptions Carefully: Pay attention to descriptions of the winemaking process, grape varieties, and flavor profiles.
- Start Small: Don’t buy a whole case of a wine you’ve never tried. Start with a single bottle to see if you enjoy it.
- Trust Your Palate: Natural wine can be polarizing. What matters most is what you like.
Common Mistakes When Buying Natural Wine
- Assuming all natural wine is the same: Just like conventional wine, natural wine varies greatly in style, quality, and price.
- Being afraid of “funky” flavors: Some natural wines have unusual aromas or flavors, which can be part of their appeal. Don’t dismiss them outright; give them a chance.
- Overlooking storage: Natural wine is often more sensitive to temperature fluctuations than conventional wine. Store it properly to preserve its quality.
- Ignoring vintage: Vintage variation can be significant in natural wine, as the lack of manipulation allows the weather to have a greater impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “skin contact” or “orange wine” mean?
“Skin contact” or “orange wine” refers to white wines that have been fermented with their grape skins, similar to red winemaking. This process extracts tannins and color, resulting in a wine with orange hues, a fuller body, and often more savory flavors. It’s a popular style within the natural wine world.
How can I tell if a wine is truly “natural”?
It’s challenging to be 100% certain, as there’s no official certification for “natural wine.” Look for wines labeled “organic” or “biodynamic,” and ask retailers about the winemaking practices. A transparent producer will be happy to share details about their process.
Is natural wine always cloudy or fizzy?
No, natural wine can be clear and still just like conventional wine. Cloudiness and slight fizz (pét-nat, or pétillant naturel) are characteristics of certain styles, but not all natural wines exhibit these traits.
What is “pét-nat”?
Pétillant naturel, or pét-nat, is an ancestral method sparkling wine. It’s bottled before fermentation is complete, trapping the remaining sugars and yeasts inside, resulting in a slightly sparkling, often cloudy wine.
Why is natural wine sometimes more expensive?
Natural winemaking often involves more labor-intensive practices, such as hand-harvesting and minimal intervention. Organic and biodynamic farming can also be more costly. These factors contribute to higher production costs, which are reflected in the price.
Does natural wine age well?
Some natural wines can age beautifully, while others are best consumed young. It depends on the wine’s structure, acidity, and tannin levels. Ask a knowledgeable retailer for recommendations on which natural wines are suitable for aging.
Is natural wine gluten-free?
Yes, wine, including natural wine, is generally considered gluten-free. Gluten is found in wheat, barley, and rye, which are not typically used in winemaking. However, some fining agents (rarely used in natural winemaking) could potentially contain trace amounts of gluten.
What kind of foods pair well with natural wine?
Natural wine’s diverse range of flavors makes it versatile for food pairings. Lighter-bodied whites often pair well with salads and seafood, while skin-contact wines can stand up to richer dishes like roasted vegetables and hard cheeses.
Where can I learn more about natural wine?
Many online resources, books, and podcasts are dedicated to natural wine. Look for articles by wine critics who specialize in natural wine, and follow natural wine producers on social media to learn about their practices.
What if I don’t like a natural wine I bought?
Tastes vary, and not every natural wine will be to your liking. Some retailers may offer returns or exchanges, so check their policy. You can also use it for cooking, or simply chalk it up to experience and try something different next time.
How should I store natural wine?
Proper storage is crucial for preserving the quality of natural wine. Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature (ideally around 55-65°F). Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations.
Is there a downside to buying natural wine online?
Yes, the primary downside is the inability to taste the wine before buying. Also, consider shipping costs, potential for breakage during transit, and the environmental impact of shipping. Choose reputable retailers with secure packaging and eco-friendly shipping options.