Natural Wine: Can it Age and What You Need to Know
Natural wine is a term that is becoming more popular in the world of wine, but what exactly is it and can it age like traditional wine?
What is Natural Wine?
Natural wine is made from grapes that are grown organically or biodynamically, without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. The winemaking process is also minimal, with limited intervention from the winemaker. This means that the wine is often unfiltered and contains minimal sulfites, which are preservatives that are commonly used in traditional wine production.
Can Natural Wine Age?
The short answer is yes, natural wine can age. However, the process of aging is different than with traditional wine. Natural wine has a shorter shelf life and is more sensitive to changes in temperature and light, which can cause it to spoil more quickly. It is also less predictable in its aging process, as the lack of intervention in the winemaking process means that each bottle of natural wine is unique.
When it comes to aging natural wine, it is important to store it in a cool, dark place with a constant temperature to prevent spoilage. It is also recommended to drink natural wine within a few years of its production, as it will not have the same aging potential as traditional wine.
Factors That Affect Aging in Natural Wine
There are several factors that can affect the aging of natural wine, including:
Sulfites: Natural wine contains lower levels of sulfites, which can impact its aging potential.
Acidity: Natural wine often has higher levels of acidity, which can help to preserve the wine as it ages.
Tannins: Tannins play a crucial role in the aging of wine, and natural wine can have more or less tannins than traditional wine, depending on the winemaking process.
Bottle closure: Natural wine is often bottled with a natural cork, which can allow a small amount of oxygen to enter the bottle and affect the aging process.
In conclusion, natural wine can age, but the process is different than with traditional wine. It is important to store natural wine in a cool, dark place with a constant temperature, and to drink it within a few years of its production. Natural wine has its own unique aging potential, and the factors that affect its aging, such as sulfites, acidity, tannins, and bottle closure, should be considered when determining its aging potential.
