Natural wines have been gaining popularity among wine enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike. With their minimal intervention in the winemaking process and focus on organic farming practices, natural wines offer a unique and authentic taste that reflects the terroir of the vineyard.

This guide is your friendly companion, here to shed light on what natural wines are, extinguish common misconceptions, and introduce you to 12 best natural wines that will have you saying "cheers" in no time.

Understanding Natural Wine

Natural wine, simply put, is wine without any unnecessary additives or interference during the winemaking process. It's all about letting the grapes speak for themselves. As Alice Feiring, a leading voice in the natural wine movement, puts it, "Natural wine is wine without crap in it."

Essentially, it starts with organic farming practices, and then the winemaking process involves minimal intervention. No chemicals, no added sugars—just pure, unadulterated grape goodness.

Uncorking the Myths: What Natural Wine Isn't

Here are some common misconceptions about natural wine that we can debunk:

• Myth #1: All Natural Wines Are Funky or Weird: While some natural wines may have unique characteristics, there's a vast spectrum of flavors to explore. You can find natural wines that are refreshing and fruity, bold and complex, or anything in between.

• Myth #2: Natural Wines Are Always Cloudy: Cloudiness in wine can occur naturally due to grape skin particles or unfiltered sediment. However, clarity doesn't necessarily dictate quality in natural wines.

• Myth #3: Natural Wines Are All Low in Alcohol: Natural wines can range in alcohol content just like conventional wines. The alcohol level depends on the grape variety, ripeness, and fermentation process.

Exploring the World of Best Natural Wines

We've picked the best natural wines for you to discover! Explore our delicious recommendations and find your new favorite!

1. Martha Stoumen, 2018 Honeymoon

Martha Stoumen's Honeymoon is a delightful blend of Chardonnay and Colombard grapes, bursting with flavors of honeycomb and a hint of sweetness balanced by acidity. Perfect for pairing with creamy cheeses.

2. E.T. Emilie Mutombo 2018, Partida Creus
This light and punchy red from Catalonia offers a pleasant bitterness reminiscent of raspberries. Made from Cartoixa Vermell and Garrut grapes, it pairs beautifully with spicy dishes.

3. Marigny, 2018 Pinot Gris Carbonic Maceration
Crafted by Andrew Young in Oregon's Willamette Valley, this Pinot Gris boasts a refreshing citrusy flavor with a hint of creaminess. Even if you're not a fan of orange wines, this one might just change your mind.

4. Château Barouillet, Splash
A perfect introduction to the world of pét-nats, the Splash from Château Barouillet is a naturally fizzy delight made from Semillon grapes. Light and tangy, it's ideal for warm-weather sipping.

5. La Casa Vieja, Mission 2017
Humberto "Tito" Toscano's Mission 2017 offers juicy flavors reminiscent of Smarties candy. Made from Mission grapes grown on 120-year-old vines in Mexico's Baja peninsula, it's a true testament to the region's winemaking heritage.

6. Morantin 2018 Touraine Gamay "La Boudinerie"
Noëlla Morantin's Touraine Gamay "La Boudinerie" is a delightful expression of ripe berry flavors, best served chilled. Pair it with rotisserie chicken or mofongo for a truly memorable dining experience.

7. Arianna Occhipinti, IGT Rosso SP68, 2018
Named after a highway near Sicily, this blend of Nero d'Avola and Frappato offers vibrant cherry flavors with a subtle effervescence. It's perfect for those seeking a light yet flavorful red wine.

8. Inconnu, Lalalu Cabernet Franc 2018
Laura Brennan Bissell's Lalalu Cabernet Franc from California boasts enticing aromas of bell peppers and ripe berries. Despite its initial heaviness, it surprises with its lightness on the palate.

9. 2019 Sparkling Jus Jus
A collaboration between Julia Sherman and Martha Stoumen, this fizzy verjus offers sweet and tart flavors reminiscent of Kombucha. With a low ABV, it's perfect for brunch or daytime celebrations.

10. Las Jaras Glou Glou

Crafted by Joel Burt and Eric Wareheim, the Glou Glou is a gulpable red wine perfect for pairing with pizza. Made from Carignan, Zinfandel, Valdiguie, and Charbono grapes, it's a true crowd-pleaser.

11. La Garagista Lupo In Bocca
Deirdre Heekin and Caleb Barber's "Lupo in Bocca" Rosé is a light and tart delight made from a field blend in Vermont. Its refreshing flavors make it suitable for any occasion.

12. ZAFA’s Don Quixote 2017
Krista Scruggs' Don Quixote 2017 is a fizzy rosé made from Ruby Cabernet grapes, offering elegant flavors with a hint of effervescence. Ideal for toasting to special occasions.

Natural wine offers a diverse and exciting range of flavors and styles, inviting wine enthusiasts to explore and discover new favorites. By understanding the principles of natural winemaking and embracing curiosity, anyone can embark on a delightful journey of wine exploration. So raise a glass and toast to the wonderful world of natural wines!