Choosing a wine can be quite a fun process. The varieties are endless, really in a world of its own. Intentionally choosing an organic wine shows that you appreciate the depth of the process. Here are some things to look for when looking for that perfect bottle:
A certified organic wine is grown following organic standards, without the use of synthetic chemicals like artificial pesticides, herbicides, and chemical fertilizers. Instead, natural methods are used to take care of the grapes and the soil, like using compost and friendly bugs to keep pests away. A certified organic wine has also be inspected by certified organic professionals making sure that all correct practices are in place. Depending on where the wine is produced, certifications may include USDA Organic (in the United States), EU Organic (in Europe), or other regional organic certifications.
In a warmer and sunnier vintage, grapes tend to ripen fully and develop higher sugar levels. This results in wines that are riper, fuller in body, and often sweeter. They may have flavors of ripe fruits like blackberries, cherries, or plums.
In a cooler vintage, grapes may not ripen as fully, resulting in higher acidity in the wine. Wines from cooler vintages can taste crisper, more tart, and have flavors like green apple, lemon, or unripe berries.
A balanced wine is one where the acidity, tannins (for red wines), and sweetness (if present) are in harmony. In some vintages, achieving balance can be more challenging. In a great vintage, balance is often easier to achieve, leading to a more harmonious and enjoyable wine.
Remember that while organic wines may meet certain standards, it doesn't guarantee the wine's quality or taste. Wine preferences are highly subjective, so have fun and explore! Trying different organic wines from various regions and producers is a great way to find the ones you enjoy the most.
Cheers!
Going a step farther, some organic wineries may also follow additional sustainable practices beyond the organic certification, such as using renewable energy or reducing their carbon footprint. Some wineries adopt additional sustainability certifications or participate in sustainability programs to demonstrate their commitment to a more holistic approach to sustainability. Examples of broader sustainability certifications include "SIP Certified" (Sustainability in Practice), "Biodynamic," and various regional sustainability programs.
Knowing when the grapes were harvested also affect the taste. Was there frost that year? Was it a hot summer? All of these environmental variables have an impact on the wine's end result.
Vintage variations can affect the intensity of flavors in a wine. In a warm and dry vintage, the flavors can be more concentrated and pronounced. In a cooler and wetter vintage, the flavors may be more delicate and subtle
Wines from exceptional vintages often have better aging potential. The balance, concentration, and structure of the wine can allow it to develop complex flavors as it matures. These wines may evolve and improve over time in the bottle.
The vintage can either enhance or mask the specific characteristics of the grape variety. For example, a cool vintage may accentuate the herbal and vegetal notes in a Cabernet Sauvignon, while a warm vintage might emphasize its black fruit flavors.
The vintage allows the terroir (the unique combination of soil, climate, and environment in a region) to express itself differently each year. In an excellent vintage, the terroir's influence on the wine can be more prominent.
So you have 5 main categories of wine; Red, White, Sparkling, Rose, and Dessert Wines. In each category there is quite an array of flavors.
Varieties like Champagne (made from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier), Prosecco (made from Glera), and Cava (made from various grape varieties) are known for their bubbly and celebratory nature.
Produced from red grape varieties but with limited skin contact, resulting in a range of pink shades and flavors from strawberries to citrus.
Includes varieties like Sauternes (made from Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc), Port (from various red grape varieties), and Ice Wine (made from grapes frozen on the vine).
Well this one's important... the taste! Do you like the way it tastes!? Don't drink it if you don't like it. Right? When it comes to taste, there are a few more factors involved in addition to the ones above. Winemaking practices play a role here. How was the wine stored? If you have specific preferences for winemaking practices (e.g., minimal intervention, natural fermentation, or aging in oak barrels), research how the wine was made. Some wineries provide detailed information about their winemaking process.
In red wines, tannins can be affected by the vintage. In a riper vintage, tannins may be softer and more approachable, while in a cooler vintage, they can be firmer and more structured.