A Rising Trend: Bio and Natural Wines in the South of France, Cevennes region
The South of France, particularly the Cévennes region, is becoming a hotspot for a fascinating wine trend: bio and natural wines. But what exactly are these wines, and why are they gaining popularity? For those new to the world of wine, let’s explore what makes these wines special and how you can enjoy them.
Natural Wine vs. Organic Wine: What’s the Difference?
Both types of wine focus on sustainable farming, but there are important distinctions:
Organic Wine (AB): This type of wine is made from grapes grown without synthetic chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides, or artificial fertilizers. Organic farming methods prioritize protecting the environment and biodiversity. In the winery, only a limited number of additives are allowed, and the amount of sulfites—a common preservative in wine—is strictly controlled.
Natural Wine: Natural wines go further than organic wines. They are made with minimal human intervention. For instance, no additional substances such as yeast, enzymes, or acidifiers are used during the winemaking process. Sulfites are either not added at all or used in very small amounts. This allows the wine to showcase the pure essence of the grapes and the environment in which they were grown.
(Glossary: Sulfites are compounds that help preserve wine but can cause sensitivity in some people. Oenological substances refer to products like yeast or acidifiers used to influence how the wine ferments or tastes.)
The Benefits of Bio and Natural Wines
Authentic Taste: Bio and natural wines allow the true character of the grapes and the land, or “terroir,” to shine through. They often have unique flavors and aromas that you won’t find in conventional wines.
(Glossary: Terroir refers to the unique combination of soil, climate, and geography that influences the flavor of wine.)
Fewer Additives: These wines have little to no added chemicals, which can be better for your health and reduce exposure to potentially harmful substances.
Environmental Responsibility: Supporting these wines helps promote farming practices that respect nature and maintain biodiversity.
How to Store and Enjoy Bio and Natural Wines
New to natural and organic wines? Here are some tips to get the most out of your experience:
Storage Temperature: Keep your wine in a cool place (12-14°C) away from direct sunlight.
Bottle Position: Lay the bottles on their sides to keep the cork moist and prevent air from entering the bottle, which can spoil the wine.
Let it Breathe: Natural wines often benefit from being opened a few hours before serving. This allows the wine to “breathe,” releasing its full range of aromas and flavors.
(Glossary: Letting wine “breathe” means allowing it to come into contact with air, which helps to soften its flavors.)
Food Pairing: These wines pair beautifully with fresh, seasonal dishes. Try them with a simple goat cheese, roasted vegetables, or a traditional ratatouille to highlight their natural flavors.
Why the Cévennes?
The Cévennes region provides the perfect environment for making bio and natural wines. Its diverse microclimates and mineral-rich soils create unique conditions for grape growing. Additionally, the area’s rich agricultural heritage and focus on artisanal, small-scale farming align perfectly with the philosophy behind these wines.
An Invitation to Explore
Curious to try? The world of bio and natural wines offers a sensory journey unlike any other. Next time you’re in the South of France, visit a local vineyard in the Cévennes to discover these wines firsthand. Each bottle tells a story—one of passion, respect for nature, and the unique identity of the land.
(Glossary: Vineyard refers to the land where grapevines are grown for winemaking.)
Let us know about your experiences with bio and natural wines. We’d love to hear how you’ve explored this exciting trend!
