The world of wine has long been governed by traditional rules and conventions, with many wine enthusiasts and producers adhering to established methods and techniques that have been passed down through generations. However, in recent years, a new wave of winemakers and drinkers has emerged, seeking to break free from these old traditions and forge a new path in the world of wine.
At the forefront of this movement are the so-called “natural” winemakers, who reject the use of chemicals, additives, and other interventions in the winemaking process. Instead, they rely on natural fermentation, minimal intervention, and a focus on terroir to create wines that are unique, expressive, and often quite different from their conventional counterparts.
One of the key figures in this movement is the renowned winemaker, Nicolas Joly, who has been a vocal advocate for natural winemaking practices. Joly’s wines, produced at his Coulée de Serrant vineyard in France’s Loire Valley, are known for their distinctive character and flavor profiles, which are shaped by the region’s unique terroir and Joly’s uncompromising commitment to natural winemaking.
Another key aspect of the new wine movement is the focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship. Many natural winemakers are committed to organic or biodynamic farming practices, which prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem balance over conventional methods that rely on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
For example, the pioneering winemaker, Gérard Bertrand, has implemented a range of sustainable practices at his vineyards in southern France, including the use of solar power, rainwater harvesting, and cover cropping. Bertrand’s wines are not only delicious and expressive but also reflect a deep commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability.
The Rise of New Wine Regions
In addition to the emergence of natural winemaking, the world of wine is also experiencing a surge in new and exciting wine regions. From the rugged hills of Croatia’s Istrian peninsula to the sun-kissed vineyards of South Africa’s Swartland, a new generation of winemakers is pushing the boundaries of what is possible with wine.
One of the most exciting new wine regions is the Jura, a small but vibrant region in eastern France that is home to a range of innovative and experimental winemakers. The Jura is known for its unique and exotic wines, which are made from a range of grape varieties, including the indigenous Trousseau and Savagnin.
Exploring the Wines of the Jura
- Start with a classic Jura wine, such as a Trousseau or Savagnin, to understand the region's unique style and flavor profile.
- Experiment with different producers and wines to discover the range and diversity of the Jura's offerings.
- Pair Jura wines with a range of foods, from rich and savory dishes to lighter and more delicate flavors, to appreciate their versatility and charm.
Challenging Traditional Wine Pairing Conventions
The new wine movement is also challenging traditional wine pairing conventions, with many winemakers and sommeliers advocating for a more flexible and innovative approach to matching wine with food.
For example, the celebrated sommelier, Rajat Parr, has developed a range of unorthodox wine pairing strategies that emphasize the importance of terroir, acidity, and texture in matching wine with food. Parr’s approach is centered on the idea that wine pairing should be a creative and intuitive process, rather than a rigid and formulaic one.
Pros and Cons of Unconventional Wine Pairing
- Encourages creativity and experimentation in wine pairing
- Allows for a more nuanced and expressive approach to matching wine with food
- Can help to challenge traditional wine pairing conventions and promote innovation
- May be perceived as unconventional or unorthodox by some wine enthusiasts
- Requires a high degree of knowledge and understanding of wine and food flavor profiles
- Can be challenging to execute and may require significant practice and experimentation
FAQs
What is natural winemaking, and how does it differ from conventional winemaking practices?
+Natural winemaking is an approach to winemaking that emphasizes minimal intervention and a reliance on natural processes, such as fermentation and terroir, to shape the flavor and character of the wine. This approach differs from conventional winemaking practices, which often involve the use of chemicals, additives, and other interventions to control the winemaking process.
How can I learn more about the new wine movement and explore the wines of emerging regions?
+There are many ways to learn more about the new wine movement and explore the wines of emerging regions. Some suggested approaches include attending wine festivals and events, joining online wine forums and discussion groups, and seeking out wines from innovative and experimental winemakers. You can also explore the wines of emerging regions, such as the Jura or Croatia's Istrian peninsula, to discover new and exciting flavor profiles.
What are some tips for pairing wine with food in a more innovative and flexible way?
+Some tips for pairing wine with food in a more innovative and flexible way include emphasizing the importance of terroir, acidity, and texture in matching wine with food, as well as being open to experimentation and creativity. You can also try pairing wines with a range of different foods and flavor profiles to discover new and exciting combinations.
In conclusion, the new wine movement is a dynamic and exciting phenomenon that is challenging traditional wine conventions and promoting innovation and creativity in the world of wine. From the emergence of natural winemaking to the rise of new and exciting wine regions, there has never been a more interesting or dynamic time to be a wine enthusiast. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of wine, there are many ways to engage with the new wine movement and discover the exciting flavors and possibilities that it has to offer.
