The natural wine movement has had a significant impact on the language of wine descriptors. This movement, which focuses on minimal intervention winemaking practices, has influenced how wines are described and understood by consumers, sommeliers, and critics alike.
Increased Emphasis on Terroir
One of the key impacts of the natural wine movement on wine descriptors is an increased emphasis on terroir. Terroir refers to the unique combination of soil, climate, and topography that gives a wine its distinct character. Natural winemakers often prioritize allowing the terroir to shine through in their wines, resulting in descriptors that highlight the specific sense of place where the grapes were grown. This emphasis on terroir can be seen in descriptors such as:
- Minerality
- Earthiness
- Herbal notes
Focus on Authenticity
Natural wines are often described as being more authentic or true to the grape variety and the vineyard where the grapes were grown. This focus on authenticity has led to descriptors that highlight the purity and honesty of the winemaking process. Some descriptors that reflect this focus on authenticity include:
- Wild fermentation
- Native yeast
- Unfiltered
Embrace of Funky and Unconventional Descriptors
The natural wine movement has also encouraged the use of more unconventional and funky descriptors to capture the unique characteristics of these wines. Natural wines are known for their funky aromas and flavors, which can include notes of barnyard, horse sweat, and even wet dog. While these descriptors may seem off-putting to some, they are embraced by natural wine enthusiasts as a sign of complexity and individuality.
Shift Towards Non-Traditional Vocabulary
Another impact of the natural wine movement on wine descriptors is a shift towards non-traditional vocabulary. Natural wines often defy traditional categorizations and flavor profiles, leading to descriptors that are outside of the norm. This can include descriptors like:
- Funky
- Barnyard
- Petrichor (the smell of rain after a dry spell)
Use of Biodynamic and Organic Terminology
Many natural winemakers practice biodynamic or organic farming methods, which are reflected in the descriptors used to describe their wines. Terms like “biodynamic,” “organic,” and “sustainable” are often used to convey the environmentally friendly practices employed in the vineyard. These descriptors appeal to consumers who are interested in supporting environmentally conscious winemaking.
Integration of Minimal Intervention Descriptors
One of the hallmarks of natural winemaking is minimal intervention in the cellar, which can result in descriptors that emphasize the hands-off approach to winemaking. Terms like “low sulfur,” “no additives,” and “raw wine” are used to convey the minimal intervention philosophy behind natural wines. These descriptors appeal to consumers who are seeking wines made with minimal manipulation.
Exploration of Unconventional Aging Techniques
Natural winemakers often explore unconventional aging techniques, such as aging wine in clay amphorae or concrete tanks, which can result in descriptors that reflect these unique aging methods. Terms like “clay-aged,” “concrete-aged,” and “anfora” are used to describe wines that have been aged in non-traditional vessels, highlighting the experimental nature of natural winemaking.
Challenges to Traditional Wine Terminology
The natural wine movement has also challenged traditional wine terminology and descriptors, pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in the world of wine. Terms like “funky” and “barnyard” may be seen as unorthodox by some, but they have become accepted within the natural wine community as valid descriptors for the unique aromas and flavors found in these wines.
Impact on Consumer Understanding and Perception
The impact of the natural wine movement on the language of wine descriptors extends beyond just the words used to describe wines. It has also influenced how consumers understand and perceive wine, shaping their preferences and choices when selecting a bottle. By introducing new descriptors and challenging traditional vocabulary, the natural wine movement has expanded the horizons of wine appreciation for consumers around the world.