Wine lovers and adventurous drinkers alike have been buzzing about nature wines, a trend that is as ancient as it is modern. If you’re embarking on our Petite Nation Wine & Cider Tour from Ottawa and Gatineau, you’re in for a treat—one of the exceptional wineries on our itinerary specializes in this unique and increasingly popular style of winemaking. But what exactly is nature wine, and why is it gaining such a devoted following?
What is Nature Wine?
Nature wine, often referred to as natural wine, is made with minimal intervention both in the vineyard and the cellar. Unlike conventional wines, nature wines are produced without additives, commercial yeasts, or excessive filtration. The grapes are often grown organically or biodynamically, ensuring that the wine expresses the true essence of the terroir. The result? A raw, unfiltered, and vibrant experience in every glass.
Where Does Nature Wine Come From?
The origins of nature wine date back centuries to traditional winemaking methods practiced before industrialization. While the movement gained momentum in France in the mid-20th century, it has since spread across the world, finding a passionate audience in regions like Italy, Spain, and now Québec. The province's cooler climate, diverse soil compositions, and innovative winemakers make it a perfect environment for producing high-quality nature wines.
Why is Nature Wine So Popular?
There are several reasons why nature wines have captured the hearts of sommeliers and casual wine drinkers alike:
- Authenticity & Terroir: Since nature wines are free from additives, they offer a pure reflection of the land where they were grown.
- Health-Conscious Appeal: Many consumers appreciate that nature wines are free from added sulfites and synthetic chemicals.
- Unique & Unpredictable Flavors: The unfiltered, spontaneous fermentation process creates wines that are lively, complex, and sometimes a little wild!
- Sustainability: Supporting nature wines means supporting environmentally friendly farming and winemaking practices.
A Must-Try Stop on Our Petite Nation Wine & Cider Tour
One of the wineries we’ll be visiting on our tour is known for its commitment to producing outstanding nature wines. This stop will allow you to taste and experience firsthand the magic of minimal-intervention winemaking while learning about the techniques that make each bottle special. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or simply curious to explore new flavors, this visit promises to be a highlight of the journey. At our second stop of the tour, that is the Domaine de l'Heure Juste, guests will enjoy a private tasting with the owners and sample 4 different nature wines. While not a certified organic winery (for many reasons), they produce their wines with little to no intervention in the vineyard or during the wine making process.
So, raise your glass to nature wines—an authentic, exciting, and delicious way to discover the unique terroir of Québec. Join us on our Petite Nation Wine & Cider Tour and sip your way through the natural beauty of the region! This is for sure Ottawa's and Gatineau's most generous and diversified wine tasting experience.
