The 8 Best Natural Wines You Need On Your Shelf

There are a lot of discussions these days around the concept of natural wine. Some people seem to think that all wine needs to be made in a certain way to be considered “natural,” while others are laxer with their definition, simply stating that they prefer wines made without chemicals and additives.

No matter where you stand on the natural wine debate, one thing is for sure: there are some pretty amazing bottles out there being produced using all-natural methods.

If you’re looking to expand your wine horizons, or if you’re just starting and want to get a taste of what natural wines can offer, then we’ve got you covered. Here are eight of our favorite natural wines that you need to have on your shelf.

1.  L’Oumineau Les Pieds dans le Vin Rouge

L’Oumnieau Les Pieds Dans le Vin Rouge is an exquisite French red wine originating from the eastern part of Burgundy, France. Produced in 1847, this prized bottle offers a delightful complexity to its drinkers with bold layers of earthy and fruity flavors. Aging in wooden barrels allows for the integration of delicate and nuanced notes of leather, tar, tobacco, and sweet peppers. One sip of this velvety red is sure to tingle the taste buds with robust undertones of licorice and garrigue elements. Overall, L’Oumineau Les Pieds Dans le Vin Rouge provides an experience that can be enjoyed by novice connoisseurs and experienced sommeliers alike.

2. Sottimano Langhe Rosso

The Sottimano Langhe Rosso is an Italian red wine crafted in the Piedmont region of Italy. This unique red blend combines three indigenous Italian varietals: Barbera, Croatina, and Dolcetto. Together, the grapes construct a balanced yet intriguing wine with notes of red fruit, luscious spice, and a hint of oak. On the palate you will find delightful flavors of Morello cherry, black pepper and nutmeg rounded out by fresh minerality. The acidity is vibrant while maintaining a pleasant tannic structure. The Sottimano Langhe Rosso is perfect for sipping on its own or with game, poultry dishes and roasted vegetables. With its complexity and drinkability, this distinctive bottle should be a mainstay in any wine enthusiast’s collection.

3. La Clarine Farm Pet-Nat

La Clarine Farm Pet-Nat is an incredible sparkling wine made with a very unique approach. It all starts with certified organic and biodynamic farming practices that result in some of the most expressive fruit around. Once the grapes are brought into the winery, they are gently pressed and no human-made yeast or sulfur is added. The grape juices sit and spontaneously ferment before being bottled after bottling. This method, known as méthode ancestrale has a much longer time commitment to make than traditional sparkling wines, but it’s worth it when you experience the bright costal aromas like green apple and citrus that compliment the dry minerality found in this wine. La Clarine Farm Pet-Nat shows just how creative and unique sparkling wines can be if one approaches them from a different perspective.

4.  Thierry Germain Saumur Champigny

Thierry Germain Saumur Champigny is a stunning French red wine made with 100% Cabernet Franc. This light-bodied and delicate beauty is plump and juicy with bold notes of cherries, earth, spice and tobacco. The core of the wine has herbal characteristics that add complexity and depth. The tannins are gentle yet firm, and the acidity is perfectly balanced which allows for an incredibly smooth finish. Being a natural wine this bottle also has a unique funkiness that makes it stand out from other wines in its class. Thierry Germain Saumur Champigny is food-friendly and makes an excellent companion to a variety of dishes.

5.  La Stoppa Macchiona

The La Stoppa Macchiona is a natural Italian red from the Emilia-Romagna region. This wine is made with a blend of 70% Barbera and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes that are hand-harvested and fermented for three weeks in stainless steel tanks before being aged in large oak barrels. This unique blend creates a wine that is smooth and silky, with beautiful aromas of dark cherry, tar, tobacco, and earth. On the palate you can find flavors of crushed red berries joined by hints of leather and licorice. The wine has a firm yet round tannic structure and is well balanced with a lively acidity. La Stoppa Macchiona is ideal for pairing with pizza and pasta dishes, as well as roasted meats and vegetables.  Enjoy this natural gem of a wine while it lasts!  

6.   La Cave des Vignerons Saint-Nicolas de Bourgueil

The La Cave des Vignerons Saint-Nicolas de Bourgueil is a French red wine crafted with 100% Cabernet Franc grapes. This deep ruby-red colored bottle offers aromas of plum, raspberry, and green pepper alongside subtle notes of cigar box and leather. On the palate you will find juicy flavors of blackberry, plum, and spice that are soft on the tongue, with a firm tannic structure providing good structure and length. The wine has good acidity with a delightful mineral finish that lingers nicely in the mouth. This bottle is perfect for pairing with grilled meats or game, and it can also be enjoyed on its own. Enjoy this wonderful French Cabernet Franc while you can!

7.  Château Thivin Clos de suriers

The Château Thivin Clos de suriers is an incredible French red wine made with 100% Gamay grapes. With its deep ruby color, this bottle offers aromas of ripe cherry and brambly fruit accompanied by light herbal notes. On the palate you can find juicy flavors of blackberry and red cherry, with hints of minerality and pepper. The tannins are round and soft, with a good acidity that makes it easy to drink and pairs perfectly with food. This bottle is wonderful for those looking for great value in a wine that still offers complexity and depth. Enjoy this tasty Gamay with a variety of dishes, from roasted poultry to charcuterie plates.  It is sure to be an instant classic!

8. COS Frappato

The COS Frappato is a natural Italian red made with 100% Frappato grapes. This light-bodied and refreshing bottle has an intense ruby hue and offers aromas of notes of wild berries, spices and roses. On the palate you can find flavors of red cherry and raspberry that are joined by delicate mineral notes, resulting in a balanced acidity with a gentle tannic structure. This wine pairs well with many different dishes, whether it is grilled vegetables or light pasta dishes. Enjoy this natural beauty of a wine with friends and family, or simply as an aperitif. It is sure to leave you wanting more!

Conclusion

These eight natural wines offer a unique and diverse range of flavor profiles, from the juicy and fruity La Stoppa Macchiona to the light-bodied and refreshing COS Frappato. Each bottle offers its own unique characteristics that are sure to please any palate. Whether you’re looking for something to pair with dinner or just a bottle to enjoy on its own, these natural wines are sure to be a hit. So what are you waiting for? Grab a bottle and start exploring the wonderful world of natural wine!