Top Natural Wine Regions
Natural wine is made using traditional methods and minimal intervention. This results in a product that is a true expression of the grape and the terroir it was grown in. With more and more people looking for authentic, sustainable, and artisanal products, natural wine’s popularity has boomed in recent years.
And while the world of natty wine is constantly evolving & each country has its own terroir and grape varieties, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite regions...
Loire Valley, France
The Loire Valley is known for its crisp and refreshing white wines and earthy, minerally and sometimes funky reds. The top varietals from the Loire Valley include Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and Gamay.
Jura Region, France
Another top natural wine-producing region is the Jura region in eastern France, tucked up into the Swiss Alps. The Jura is known for its unique and complex wines, which are made using a variety of grape varieties and oxidative winemaking techniques. Some of the most popular natural wines from the Jura include Chardonnay, Savagnin, and Poulsard.
Mosel Region, Germany
The Mosel region in Germany is known for its dangerously steep slopes and cool sweeping winds from the Mosel river. This prevents insects and other grape invaders from attacking the vines and makes it a naturally suited region for natural wines. The region is famous for Riesling, a grape known for its delicate and floral aromas. Rieslings can suck up their terroir and taste like their environment better than any white grape in the world - which in this case, is slatey stones.
Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy
In Italy, the natural wine-producing region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia is gaining popularity. The wines from Friuli-Venezia Giulia are known for their complex and expressive flavors, with a focus on indigenous grape varieties such as Ribolla Gialla, Schioppettino, and Tocai Friulano.
Catalonia, Spain
In Spain, the natural wine-producing region of Catalonia is worth noting. The wines from Catalonia are known for their bold and expressive flavors, with a focus on grape varieties such as Grenache, Carignan, and Macabeo. Lesser known varietals like Trepat, which was classically used in Cava, have also gained popularity because of its Pinot-esque characteristics.
From the crisp and refreshing whites of the Loire Valley to the bold and expressive wines of Catalonia, there is a natural wine for every palate. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and delicious beverage, natural wine is definitely worth trying.