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Natural wine has taken the UK by storm, and its growing popularity is no surprise. With its emphasis on organic farming, minimal intervention, and distinctive flavours, natural wine offers an experience unlike anything else. But how do you get the most out of your glass of natural wine? Whether you’re just starting to explore the world of natural wine or looking to elevate your tasting game, this guide will help you taste natural wine like a pro.
1. Start with the Right Glassware
To truly appreciate natural wine, the right glass matters. Opt for a tulip-shaped wine glass—this shape allows the aromas to concentrate and enhances your tasting experience. A larger bowl for reds and a narrower one for whites works best. The key is to give the wine enough space to breathe, allowing its true character to shine through.
2. Examine the Appearance
Before you even take a sip, take a moment to examine the wine’s appearance. Hold the glass against a white background to get a good look at the colour. Natural wines often have more vibrant, varied hues compared to conventional wines. Whether it’s a deep ruby red or a cloudy orange, the colour can offer hints about the wine’s age, grape variety, and whether it’s been filtered or not.
3. Take in the Aromas
Next, give your wine a swirl and bring the glass to your nose. Natural wines are known for their complex, earthy, and sometimes funky aromas, which can include anything from fresh fruit to a distinct “barnyard” smell. Don’t be afraid to inhale deeply and take in the full spectrum of aromas, as these will guide you to the wine’s unique flavour profile.
4. Taste the Wine
Now for the fun part: tasting. Take a small sip and let the wine coat your mouth. Notice how it feels—does it have a smooth, velvety texture, or is it more rustic and tannic? Natural wines are often less polished than conventional wines, so you may encounter flavours that are more challenging and intriguing. Look for a balance between acidity, fruitiness, and minerality. Don’t forget to pay attention to the aftertaste, or “finish,” as it can reveal much about the wine’s quality and character.
5. Assess the Structure
A key aspect of tasting natural wine like a pro is evaluating the structure. Does the wine have a good balance of acidity, tannins, and alcohol? A well-balanced wine will have all these elements in harmony, with no one aspect dominating. Natural wines can sometimes be more acidic or have a slightly higher tannin profile, so be open to these differences.
6. Consider the Terroir
Terroir refers to the unique combination of soil, climate, and vineyard practices that influence a wine’s flavour. Many natural wines are made from small, family-run vineyards that emphasize sustainable farming and respect for the land. As you taste, try to discern the influence of the region. For instance, a wine from the volcanic soils of Sicily may have a distinctive minerality, while a biodynamic wine from the UK might carry an earthy, herbaceous character.
7. Take Notes
As you begin to taste more natural wines, it can be helpful to keep track of your experiences. Note the colour, aromas, flavours, and overall impression of each wine. This will not only improve your tasting skills but also help you identify your personal preferences.
8. Pairing Natural Wine with Food
One of the best ways to explore the depths of natural wine is by pairing it with food. Natural wines, with their diverse range of flavours, can complement a wide variety of dishes. Lighter whites and rosés work beautifully with fresh seafood or salads, while bolder reds can enhance hearty stews or grilled meats. Don’t hesitate to experiment and discover what pairs best with your favourite natural wines.
9. Explore Natural Wine Subscriptions
If you’re keen to dive deeper into the world of natural wine, subscribing to a natural wine subscription service can be a fantastic way to explore new bottles. Many UK-based services offer carefully curated selections of natural wines, so you can expand your palate without the guesswork. Subscriptions often feature wines that you won’t easily find on supermarket shelves, making it an exciting way to learn more about natural wines and try wines from smaller, independent producers.
10. Trust Your Own Taste
Finally, remember that tasting wine is a deeply personal experience. While it’s great to know how to taste natural wine like a pro, there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy it. Trust your palate, and don’t be afraid to embrace the unique flavours and aromas that natural wine offers.
In Conclusion
Tasting natural wine is all about experience and exploration. Whether you’re enjoying a bottle from your natural wine subscription or visiting a local wine shop in the UK, there’s always something new to discover in the world of natural wine. By following these tips, you’ll soon be able to taste like a pro and appreciate the complexity and artistry behind every bottle.
Join the Natural Wine Movement!
Interested in exploring natural wine further? Whether you’re new to the world of wine or a seasoned connoisseur, there’s always room for more discovery. Check out a natural wine subscription in the UK and see what unique bottles await you. Drink naturally, and taste every moment!