"What the f***" | Master Sommeliers take on Natural Wine

"Natural wine" words strong enough to make a Somms knees weak.

The low-intervention style that's gaining traction across wine bars, bottle shops, and dinner tables globally. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or a curious sipper, this episode offers insights into the natural wine movement, its differences from organic wine, and why pet-nats (pétillant naturels) are popping up on every trendy wine list.

Master Sommelier Carlos Santos unpacks key elements of natural winemaking, the certifications (or lack thereof), and why taste profiles can be wildly different from conventional wines. They share firsthand experiences from the wine industry, discuss how terroir and fermentation practices influence flavour, and answer audience questions about pairing and building inclusive wine lists.

Whether you're researching what natural wine means, how it’s made, or just looking to better understand organic vs natural wine, this episode is a go-to resource.

So use your roll on crystal deodorant, face the tidal moon and take your shows of and earth yourself while enjoying this episode!

Sponsors:

• RIEDEL Superleggero Champagne Wine Glass: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop/riedel-superleggero-premium/champagne-wine-glass-642500028 
• RIEDEL Veloce Chardonnay: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop/veloce/chardonnay-633000097 
• RIEDEL Performance Pinot Noir: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop/performance/pinot-noir-688400067 
• Grays.com Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: https://www.grays.com/search/wine

Socials:

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Key Takeaways:

• Natural wines are increasingly popular with younger wine drinkers and urban markets.

• Organic wines are certified; natural wines are not, but both prioritise sustainability.

• Pet-nats are bottled before fermentation ends, creating natural fizz from trapped CO₂.

• Low-intervention winemaking avoids additives and heavy filtering.

• Natural wines vary widely in taste depending on winemaker choices and vineyard conditions.

• Great wine lists balance personal taste with broad appeal for all customers.

• Terroir and winemaking technique are key to flavour, especially in natural wine.

• Don’t be afraid to pair natural wines with unexpected foods for unique results.

• Engaging with audiences drives better wine education and community.

• Grenache may thrive in warmer climates due to climate change.

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