Red vs. White: Understanding the Basics of Natural Wine

The world of wine is vast and diverse, offering an array of flavours, aromas, and experiences. Among the many distinctions within this realm, one of the most fundamental is the differentiation between red and white wines. When you want to buy natural wine online, these distinctions take on added significance, as they reflect not only varietal characteristics but also the winemaking philosophy and approach.

Red Natural Wine: Bold, Complex, and Expressive

Red natural wines derive their rich colour and robust flavour from the skins of dark-coloured grape varieties. These wines are typically fermented with the grape skins intact, allowing for the extraction of colour, tannins, and flavour compounds. The result is a diverse range of wines that can vary from light and fruity to bold and tannic.

One of the defining characteristics of red natural wines is their complexity. The interaction between grape skins and juice during fermentation can create a wide spectrum of flavours and aromas, ranging from red and black fruits to earthy notes, spices, and floral undertones.

White Natural Wine: Crisp, Refreshing, and Elegant

In contrast to their red counterparts, white natural wines are crafted from light-coloured grape varieties, where the grape juice is separated from the skins before fermentation. This minimalist approach allows for the expression of delicate fruit flavours and floral aromas, resulting in wines that are crisp, refreshing, and elegant.

White natural wines are known for their purity and vibrancy, with flavours that range from citrus and stone fruits to tropical notes and mineral undertones.

Embracing Diversity: Exploring Natural Wine Varietals and Terroir

While the distinctions between red and white wines provide a useful framework when you buy natural wine, it's essential to recognise the diversity within each category. Natural wine producers work with an array of grape varieties, each of which brings its own unique personality and flavour profile to the bottle.

Additionally, the concept of terroir plays a significant role in shaping the character of natural wines. Terroir encompasses a range of environmental factors, including soil composition, climate, and topography, all of which influence the growth and development of grapevines.

Conclusion:

Natural red and white wines offer distinct yet equally compelling experiences for wine enthusiasts. Whether you're drawn to the bold complexity of reds or the crisp elegance of whites, exploring the world of natural wine provides an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of minimal intervention winemaking and the rich diversity of grape varieties and terroirs. So, what are you waiting for? Shop your favourites from a natural wine shop today!