Natural wine can be a bit of a divisive term as it doesn’t really have an official definition. So, for me, natural wine means wines made from organically or biodynamically grown grapes, with as little as possible intervention during the winemaking process. This generally means wild fermentation, where the yeast that naturally occurs both in the winery and on the grapes are allowed to work its magic without the need to use commercial yeast. Also, typically these wines are produced by small growers with a focus on sustainability and respect for the land at the core of what they do.
If you are starting to explore the world of natural wines, there are of course lots of producers to choose from. As I know this can often be a minefield, I have compiled a small list that I would recommend checking out. Here’s a list of some of some of my personal favourite natural wine producers and their noteworthy wines, many of which you can find in our online shop at Cave Bristol:
(Some) Notable Natural Wine Producers & Wines:
(Please note this is just a snapshot and is just producers and wines that sprung to mind at the time of writing)
1. Domaine De Bellivière
Located in the Jasnieres region of the Loire Valley, Domaine De La Bellivière are known for their vibrant, complex and terroir-driven Chenin Blanc & Pineau D'Aunis made according to biodynamic principles. Their wines are some of my absolute favourite Chenin Blancs ever!
Wine Highlight -Domaine De Bellivière, Caligramme, 2019 - Yes this is primo pricing but its nothing short of spectacular and simply one of my favourite wines. 100% Chenin Blanc from 80 year old vines. This will age effortlessly way beyond the point when most fine Burgundies have started to tire. Phenomenal and complex Chenin that is one for the serious wine lovers!
2. Alessandro Viola
A native from Sicily, Alessandro Viola produces hyper energetic natural wines with a focus on local Sicilian grape varieties like Grillo, Catarratto and Nero D'Avola.
Wine Highlight - Alessandro Viola, Rose, 2023 - A fun and energetic rose made from 100% Nero D'Avola. Fermented with wild yeasts in steel tanks gives this wine so much life. Its fun, versatile and incredibly joyful. A vibrant pink colour full of tang and minerality and oh so gluggable.
3. Beck-Hartweg
This super historic biodynamic Alsatian estate produces wines that are a true reflection of the local Terroir. They produce a cracking array of Rieslings and Pinot Gris as well as an aromatic Pet Nat and super juicy Pinot Noir.
Wine Highlight -Beck-Hartweg, Tout Naturellement, 2023 - So this might not be their most "serious" wine but it is certainly one of their most joyful. In a world of far too many very ordinary and over-hyped Pet Nats this for me really delivers. A rose pet nat made with a mix of red Muscat, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir this is juicy and zesty blend with a nose full of rose petals.
4. Bodegas Albamar
Located in Galicia, Bodegas Albamar are simply one of the best Albarino makers in the biz. With a focus on a more natural winemaking they wild ferment their wines, something that is actually pretty rare in the region. Their Albariño's will change your perception about the quality of the grape when in the right hands and don't miss their small but sublime selection of reds.
Wine Highlight - Bodegas Albamar, Rias Baixas, 2023- One of the very few Albariño in the region to be made via natural, indigenous yeasts. There is acidity and freshness in abundance and with alick of salt on the finish. This is their "entry level" Albarino but this already this pushes Albariño to the next level and proves it can be a serious wine rather than just the "holiday favourite".
5. Vina Zorzal
A really cracking winery based in Navarra in Northern Spain. They produce a stunning array of reds and whites all at a reasonable price. The family have a clear commitment and respect for their environment, and practice low intervention, environmentally-friendly viticulture.
Wine Highlight -Vina Zorzal, Sea Of Dreams Red, 2020 - This is soft yet full bodied with the classic Garnacha body without the invasive tannins. This is pure, beautifully made and just delicious with notes of dark fruits and clove.
6. Domaine Macle
The unofficial kings of oxidative winemaking in Jura. Their wines are a true masterpiece of this style. Working with the native Savagnin and Chardonnay grapes they produce exceptional whites and one of the best Vin Jauneout there.
Wine Highlight - Domaine Macle, Tradition, 2018 - A phenomenal blend of Chardonnay & Savagnin aged under flor for three years. Simply one of the best examples of flor aged wine you will come across and will age beautifully and effortlessly for the next 30 years plus.
7. Domaine Overnoy
A real star producer that probably doesn't get the credit deserved. Sharing the sir name with his legendary Great Uncle, Domaine Overnoy produce wines with a real sense of place. Producing wines from all Jura native varietals every wine produced is beautiful
Wine Highlight -Domaine Overnoy, Savagnin Ouille, 2019 - A 0 Sulphur topped up Svagagnin that I love. It really benfitted from a long lees ageing in barrel and the result is energetic expression of the grape with layers of spice and a beautiful salinity.
8. Juan Antonio Ponce
A prominent figure in the world of natural wines in Spain, Juan Antonio Ponce focuses on organic viticulture and produces some crazy good value wines. How he manages to keep his prices still so reasonable give the quality is a mystery but no complaintes here. Working with native varietals from Manchuela in La Mancha he creates some awesome reds as well as an amazing white and rose.
Wine Highlight - Juan Antonio Ponce, Depaula, 2023 - Great value Monastrell that really delivers for the price. Pure, sweet red fruit and plenty of freshness this has layers of complexity for a wine sub £20.
9. AA Badenhorst
Adi Badenhorst is a bit of a legend in the South African winemaking scene and is well known for his commitment to natural & minimal intervention winemaking. He inspired a generation of new winemakers such as new cult icon Craig Hawkins to continue producing wines in this more environmentally friendly way. His secateurs range are simply outstanding value
Wine Highlight - AA Badenhorst, Secateurs Chenin, 2023 - Stunning Chenin Blanc that punches well above its weight. Notes of Apricots, Meadow Flowers, Creamy
10. Vouette et Sorbée
One of my absolute favourite Grower Champagne producers Vouette et Sorbée who are based in the Cotes de Bar region in southern Champagne craft beautiful biodynamic wines. Yes these are not super cheap but its Champagne and its worth every penny!
Wine Highlight - Vouette et Sorbée, Fidele, 2020 - 100% Pinot Noir, this is the Champagne that turned me on to Grower Champagne and made me realise just why this region is so special. Rich, prolonged and so elegant. WOW!
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing what natural wine to buy, the best choice often depends on your taste and your mood. These wines above are just some of my many highlights but my favourites often change through the year and the seasons. Natural wine is a diverse category and the beauty of it is often the producers behind the bottle. There are so many wines to explore from small growers who showcase their terroir in their wines.
So order a bottle for delivery, come and browse our shelves at our Bristol wine shop or come and and enjoy a glass at our Natural wine Bar and we can guide you through what we think is tasting great at the moment.