Wine has been a staple of human culture for thousands of years, with various styles and techniques emerging over time. In recent years, a new trend has taken the wine world by storm: New Age wine. But what exactly is New Age wine, and how does it differ from traditional wine? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of New Age wine, exploring its history, characteristics, and what makes it so unique.
A Brief History of New Age Wine
New Age wine, also known as “natural wine” or “orange wine,” has its roots in the 1960s and 1970s, when a group of winemakers in France and Italy began experimenting with unconventional techniques. These pioneers sought to break away from traditional winemaking methods, which they saw as too commercialized and focused on mass production. Instead, they emphasized the importance of terroir, sustainability, and minimal intervention in the winemaking process.
One of the key figures in the New Age wine movement is Jules Chauvet, a French winemaker who advocated for a more natural approach to winemaking. Chauvet believed that wine should be made with minimal use of chemicals, sulfites, and other additives, allowing the natural flavors and characteristics of the grapes to shine through.
The Rise of Natural Wine
In the 1990s and 2000s, the natural wine movement gained momentum, with more winemakers around the world adopting New Age techniques. This was largely driven by consumer demand for more authentic, sustainable, and unique wines. Today, New Age wine is a global phenomenon, with producers in countries like the United States, Australia, and South Africa joining the ranks of traditional European producers.
Characteristics of New Age Wine
So, what sets New Age wine apart from traditional wine? Here are some key characteristics:
Minimal Intervention
New Age winemakers believe in minimal intervention in the winemaking process. This means that they avoid using additives, sulfites, and other chemicals that can alter the natural flavor and character of the grapes. Instead, they rely on natural yeast and bacteria to ferment the wine, resulting in a more authentic and terroir-driven product.
Organic and Biodynamic Farming
New Age winemakers often adopt organic and biodynamic farming practices, which prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem balance. This approach not only produces healthier grapes but also contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly wine industry.
Unconventional Techniques
New Age winemakers are known for experimenting with unconventional techniques, such as:
- Orange wine production: This involves leaving the grape skins in contact with the juice for an extended period, resulting in a distinctive orange hue and unique flavor profile.
- Carbonic maceration: This technique involves fermenting the grapes in a carbon dioxide-rich environment, producing wines with bright, fruity flavors and low tannins.
- Spontaneous fermentation: This approach relies on natural yeast and bacteria to ferment the wine, resulting in a more complex and nuanced flavor profile.
Types of New Age Wine
New Age wine encompasses a wide range of styles and grape varieties. Some popular types of New Age wine include:
Orange Wine
Orange wine, also known as skin-contact wine, is a type of white wine that’s made using extended skin contact. This technique gives the wine its distinctive orange color and unique flavor profile, which is often described as complex, spicy, and textured.
Pétillant Naturel (Pét-Nat)
Pét-Nat is a type of sparkling wine that’s made using the traditional method, but with a twist. Instead of adding a dosage of sugar and yeast to the bottle, Pét-Nat producers rely on natural fermentation to create the bubbles. This results in a more rustic, unpredictable style of sparkling wine.
Natural Red Wine
Natural red wine is made using minimal intervention techniques and often features a more rustic, earthy flavor profile. These wines are often described as having a more “wild” or “savage” character, with flavors of dark fruit, spice, and leather.
Benefits of New Age Wine
So, why should you try New Age wine? Here are some benefits:
Unique Flavor Profile
New Age wine offers a unique and exciting flavor profile that’s often more complex and nuanced than traditional wine. With its emphasis on terroir and minimal intervention, New Age wine is perfect for adventurous drinkers who want to experience something new and different.
Sustainability
New Age wine is often made using sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, which is good news for the planet. By choosing New Age wine, you’re supporting a more responsible and eco-friendly wine industry.
Health Benefits
New Age wine is often lower in sulfites and other additives, making it a healthier choice for wine drinkers. Additionally, many New Age winemakers use organic and biodynamic farming practices, which can result in wines that are higher in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds.
How to Choose a New Age Wine
With so many New Age wines on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Here are some tips:
Look for Natural Wine Labels
Many New Age wines are labeled as “natural wine” or “minimal intervention.” Look for these labels to ensure that you’re getting a wine that’s made using New Age techniques.
Check the Ingredients
New Age wines often have fewer ingredients and additives than traditional wines. Check the label to see if the wine contains any sulfites, yeast, or other additives.
Try Before You Buy
New Age wine can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to try before you buy. Look for wine shops or restaurants that offer New Age wine tastings or flights.
Conclusion
New Age wine is a exciting and rapidly evolving trend in the wine world. With its emphasis on minimal intervention, sustainability, and unique flavor profiles, New Age wine is perfect for adventurous drinkers who want to experience something new and different. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of wine, New Age wine is definitely worth trying. So why not uncork a bottle and discover the magic of New Age wine for yourself?
What is New Age Wine?
New Age wine is a style of wine that originated in Argentina in the 1990s. It is characterized by its unique blend of traditional and modern winemaking techniques, resulting in a distinct flavor profile that is both refreshing and fruity. New Age wines are often described as being easy to drink and pair well with a variety of foods.
The term “New Age” refers to the innovative approach that winemakers take when producing these wines. They often experiment with different grape varieties, fermentation techniques, and aging processes to create a unique and refreshing style of wine. New Age wines are not bound by traditional winemaking rules, allowing winemakers to push the boundaries of what is possible with wine production.
What are the characteristics of New Age Wine?
New Age wines are known for their fruity and floral aromas, with flavors that are often described as being crisp and refreshing. They typically have a lower acidity level than traditional wines, making them easy to drink and pair well with a variety of foods. New Age wines are also often characterized by their bright colors and clarity, which is achieved through the use of modern winemaking techniques.
In terms of specific flavor profiles, New Age wines can range from citrus and green apple flavors to more tropical flavors such as pineapple and mango. The flavor profile will depend on the specific grape variety used and the winemaking techniques employed. Overall, New Age wines are known for their approachability and ease of drinking, making them a great option for those new to wine or looking for a refreshing drink.
What grape varieties are used in New Age Wine?
New Age wines can be made from a variety of grape varieties, including Torrontés, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. Torrontés is a popular choice for New Age wines, as it is a native Argentine grape variety that is well-suited to the country’s climate. Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are also commonly used, as they are versatile grape varieties that can produce a range of flavor profiles.
The choice of grape variety will depend on the specific style of New Age wine being produced. Some winemakers may choose to use a single grape variety, while others may blend multiple varieties to create a unique flavor profile. The use of different grape varieties allows winemakers to experiment with different flavor profiles and create a range of New Age wines.
How is New Age Wine produced?
New Age wine production involves a combination of traditional and modern winemaking techniques. The grapes are typically harvested at the optimal time to ensure maximum flavor and aroma. The grapes are then fermented using modern techniques, such as cold fermentation, to preserve the delicate flavors and aromas.
After fermentation, the wine is aged in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels to add complexity and depth to the flavor profile. Some New Age wines may undergo a secondary fermentation, known as malolactic fermentation, to soften the acidity and add a creamy texture to the wine. The use of modern winemaking techniques allows winemakers to produce high-quality New Age wines that are consistent in flavor and quality.
What are the food pairing options for New Age Wine?
New Age wines are versatile and can be paired with a variety of foods. They are particularly well-suited to pairing with lighter dishes, such as salads, seafood, and vegetarian options. The crisp acidity and fruity flavors of New Age wines make them a great match for dishes that feature fresh herbs and citrus flavors.
In terms of specific food pairing options, New Age wines pair well with dishes such as grilled chicken or fish, salads with citrus vinaigrettes, and vegetarian options such as pasta or risotto. They can also be paired with spicy foods, as the acidity in the wine helps to cut through the heat. Overall, New Age wines are a great option for those looking for a refreshing and easy-drinking wine to pair with a variety of foods.
Is New Age Wine a type of sparkling wine?
No, New Age wine is not a type of sparkling wine. While some New Age wines may have a slight spritz, they are not typically produced as sparkling wines. The term “New Age” refers to the innovative approach that winemakers take when producing these wines, rather than the level of carbonation.
New Age wines are typically still wines, with a focus on showcasing the fresh and fruity flavors of the grape variety. While some winemakers may choose to add a small amount of carbonation to their New Age wines, this is not a defining characteristic of the style. Instead, New Age wines are known for their crisp acidity and refreshing flavor profiles.
Where can I find New Age Wine?
New Age wines are widely available in wine shops and online retailers. They are particularly popular in Argentina, where they originated, but can also be found in other countries around the world. Many wine shops and online retailers carry a selection of New Age wines, making it easy to find and try this style of wine.
When shopping for New Age wines, look for wines that are labeled as “New Age” or “Nuevo Mundo” (which is the Spanish term for New Age). You can also ask your local wine shop for recommendations, as they may be able to suggest some popular New Age wines to try.