“The definition of natural wine can be a little opaque (all wine, by its definition, is natural). ”
Still, in an attempt to simplify it, natural wine is essentially wine made by doing as little as possible. Organic grapes, organic farming practices, hand harvesting, spontaneous fermentation and as little intervention as possible in the winery and the vineyard to produce organic natural wine. The wine is then bottled without the addition of any sulphur or at significantly very low levels.
When done correctly, natural wine can truly capture the very essence of the vineyard. When poorly made, natural wine can smell ‘funky’ and not quite live up to its intended quality, which is too often the case in our experience. Natural wines can be very hit or miss. Fortunately, the wines we stock (carefully selected and taste-tested) demonstrate that natural wines, created with minimal intervention, can still taste brilliant!
July 2025
Red natural wines
Santa Julia ‘Vinos Naturales’ Malbec, Argentina
This is Argentinian winemaking royalty, Zuccardi’s, first foray into the world of natural winemaking. Look, they’ve even gone for a playful label to try and fit in. Facetiousness aside, this is a distinctly different take on Malbec; it is a fresher style with some rustic notes at the edges and an earthy finish.
Chateau l’Ermite d’Auzan ‘Gavroche’ Rouge, France
A natural, organic and biodynamic cuvée from this fabulous property down near Nimes in the South of France. At its best, served lightly chilled, this is a pure, fresh and juicy cuvée that shows that simple can be complex but not complicated. Bright red fruit with a crunchy palate and a long, summery finish. A wine to drink among the vines and sunshine.
Emiliana ‘Coyam’, Chile
This estate is a leader in organic winemaking, and this cuvée is one of two that demonstrate that natural wine can be pure, bold, powerful, and immediately welcoming. This wine has just celebrated 20 vintages, and it takes its name from the Mapuche word for the oak forest that surrounds the vineyards. A multi-grape blend with flavour taking precedence over varietal character, it is deep and incredibly well-structured. Whilst it may drink wonderfully now, it is also capable of ageing for another couple of decades. When done correctly, natural wine is just really very good wine. It’s that simple.
White natural wines
Les Enracines Macon-Chardonnay, Burgundy, France
Chardonnay from the actual village of Chardonnay, crafted by the excellent Terroirs et Talents. There’s a fabulous richness and complexity to this wine, which pairs well with its acidity and culminates in a beautifully broad, creamy finish. It is a very good white Burgundy and much more complex than many a Macon.
Waterkloof Estate ‘Circle of Life’ White, Stellenbosch, South Africa
This estate was formerly a large bulk wine producer, but its current owner purchased it, removed every vine, and replanted it in an organic manner, employing farming methods that date back centuries. It’s a perfect marriage of nature and nurture—a fine and seamless blend of 3 classic white grapes. Sauvignon Blanc aromas are prominent on the nose, featuring notes of lime and prickly pear. A tight mineral core and creamy mid-palate from the Chenin Blanc give complexity and a persistent finish, while a small proportion of Semillon adds texture and depth.
Visit us in-store to learn more, or if you’re already convinced, head to our online store and try all these natural wines in our Natural & Orange Discovery Mixed Case of 6 Wines for the bargain (naturally) price of just £95.00 – saving you £20.
