5 Natural Wine Regions You Need to Explore

Natural wine is more than just a trend; it’s a movement that celebrates authenticity, sustainability, and the connection between the land and the wine. Across the world, winemakers are adopting organic, biodynamic, and minimal-intervention practices to craft wines that truly reflect their terroir. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting your natural wine journey, there are some key regions that should be on your radar. Here are 5 natural wine regions you need to explore, each offering its own unique approach to winemaking.

1. France: The Heart of Natural Wine

France has long been synonymous with wine, but its natural wine scene has seen a massive resurgence in recent years. While regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy are famous for their conventional wines, the country’s natural wine producers are crafting wines that focus on low-intervention methods, organic farming, and respect for the environment.

• Loire Valley: This region is a haven for natural wine lovers. Known for its diverse array of wines, from crisp whites like Sauvignon Blanc to aromatic reds from Cabernet Franc, the Loire Valley is home to many small, organic winemakers. Producers here are committed to biodynamic practices, and you’ll often find wines made without additives or sulphites, allowing the purity of the fruit to shine through.
• Beaujolais: A rising star in the natural wine world, Beaujolais is famous for its Gamay grape and light, fruity red wines. The natural wine movement has taken hold here, with many winemakers embracing carbonic maceration (a fermentation technique that emphasizes freshness and fruitiness) and sustainable practices.
• Provence: While best known for rosé wines, Provence is also home to some incredible natural wines. The region’s warm Mediterranean climate creates ripe, expressive wines, and many producers here are turning to organic and biodynamic farming methods to ensure that their wines are as pure and expressive as possible.

2. Italy: The Land of Tradition and Innovation

Italy has an incredibly rich winemaking tradition, and its natural wine movement is rooted in the country’s deep connection to the land. Many of Italy’s natural wine regions are located in the south, where old vines thrive, and unique indigenous varieties are nurtured.

• Tuscany: While Tuscany is known for its iconic Chianti and Super Tuscan wines, natural winemakers in this region are pushing the boundaries of tradition. Many producers in Tuscany are focusing on organic farming and minimal intervention, resulting in wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir.
• Sicily: Sicily is quickly becoming one of the hottest destinations for natural wine lovers. The island’s volcanic soils, warm climate, and indigenous grape varieties like Nerello Mascalese and Frappato produce vibrant, complex wines. Many small-scale producers in Sicily are turning to organic and biodynamic practices, making it a must-visit for natural wine enthusiasts.
• Piedmont: Known for Barolo and Barbaresco, Piedmont has a long history of traditional winemaking. However, in recent years, the region has seen a shift toward organic and natural practices, especially among smaller producers. Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, and Barbera wines from this region are being crafted with minimal intervention, allowing the true expression of the grapes to shine.

3. Spain: The Underdog of Natural Wine

Spain is one of the largest wine-producing countries in the world, but its natural wine scene is still relatively young compared to France and Italy. That being said, the country’s diverse climates, rich history, and unique grape varieties make it an exciting destination for natural wine exploration.

• Catalonia: Catalonia, home to the famous Penedès wine region, is a hub for natural winemaking in Spain. The region has long been associated with sparkling Cava, but in recent years, many producers have shifted toward organic and biodynamic practices, particularly with indigenous varieties like Xarel·lo and Garnacha.
• Priorat: Located in the northeast of Spain, Priorat is known for its rugged landscapes and steep slopes, which make for challenging but rewarding grape growing. The region’s old vines, combined with a focus on organic farming, result in bold, mineral-driven wines. Many natural winemakers in Priorat emphasize low intervention, allowing the wines to express the unique terroir of this dramatic landscape.
• Galicia: Galicia in the northwest of Spain is often compared to northern France due to its cooler, wetter climate. Known for its white wines made from Albariño, Galicia is becoming a hub for natural winemakers who embrace organic farming and minimal intervention. The wines from this region tend to be fresh, aromatic, and highly expressive of the coastal terroir.

4. Germany: The Land of Riesling and Sustainability

Germany is famous for its cool-climate wines, particularly Riesling, which thrives in the country’s slate-rich soils. The natural wine movement in Germany is rooted in sustainability, with many winemakers turning to biodynamic farming and focusing on creating wines that are true to the land.

• Mosel: The Mosel Valley is one of Germany’s most iconic wine regions, known for its steep vineyards and production of high-quality Riesling. Natural winemakers in this region are embracing low-intervention techniques and organic farming, crafting wines that reflect the purity of the fruit and the unique characteristics of the slate soils.
• Baden: Located in the southwest of Germany, Baden is a region known for its warm climate and diverse range of grape varieties. In recent years, the area has seen a rise in natural winemaking, with producers focusing on sustainability and minimal intervention. Baden’s natural wines are often fresh, vibrant, and full of character, making it a must-visit region for natural wine lovers.

5. United States: The Emerging Natural Wine Scene

While natural wine in the United States is still growing, the country is home to some exciting natural wine regions that are worth exploring. From the West Coast to the East Coast, natural winemakers in the U.S. are embracing organic and biodynamic practices to craft wines that are both innovative and sustainable.

• California: California is known for its vast wine regions, from Napa Valley to Sonoma, and it’s home to some of the most well-established natural wine producers in the U.S. Many winemakers in California are turning to organic farming and minimal intervention practices, especially in regions like Santa Barbara and Mendocino County. If you’re looking for a place to explore natural wine in the U.S., California is a great starting point.
• Oregon: Oregon has become a beacon for natural wine lovers, especially in the Willamette Valley, which is known for its cool climate and world-class Pinot Noir. The state’s natural wine movement is growing rapidly, with many producers focusing on biodynamic farming and sustainable practices.
• New York: New York is home to a burgeoning natural wine scene, particularly in regions like the Finger Lakes and Long Island. The cool climate and diverse terroir allow for a range of wines, from crisp whites to complex reds, and many producers are embracing natural winemaking techniques that focus on sustainability and minimal intervention.

Final Thoughts

Natural wine regions across the globe offer an exciting range of flavours, styles, and philosophies, making them must-visit destinations for any wine enthusiast. Whether you’re drawn to the traditional winemaking practices of France, the vibrant natural wines of Spain, or the innovative approaches of California, there’s a region out there that will inspire and delight. By exploring these natural wine hotspots, you can deepen your appreciation for the art of winemaking while supporting sustainable, eco-conscious practices that benefit both the planet and the people who produce the wines. Cheers to your next wine adventure!