Natural Wine Denver: A Guide to the City’s Best Offerings
Natural wine in Denver is gaining significant traction, with a growing number of bars, restaurants, and shops embracing this low-intervention approach to winemaking. Characterized by minimal additives and a focus on organic or biodynamic farming practices, natural wines offer a unique and often funky alternative to conventional wines. Denver’s diverse culinary scene provides the perfect backdrop for exploring these unique and expressive bottles.
What is Natural Wine?
Natural wine is a broad term encompassing wines made with minimal intervention in the winemaking process. This generally means using grapes grown without synthetic pesticides or herbicides, fermenting with native yeasts (rather than commercial yeasts), and adding little to no sulfur dioxide, a common preservative in conventional winemaking. The goal is to allow the grapes and terroir to express themselves fully, resulting in wines that can be incredibly diverse and often unpredictable.
Where to Find Natural Wine in Denver
Denver offers a variety of establishments where you can discover natural wine. You can also find information on natural wine on Wikipedia.
Wine Shops
Several wine shops in Denver specialize in natural wines. These shops often have knowledgeable staff who can guide you through their selection and help you find wines that suit your taste. Some popular spots include:
* Curio Bar & Bistro: Known for their curated selection and educational events.
* Mondo Vino: A long-standing favorite with a wide array of natural and biodynamic wines.
* Happy Canyon Wine & Market: Offers a diverse selection with a focus on smaller producers.
Restaurants and Bars
Many of Denver’s restaurants and bars are incorporating natural wines into their offerings. Look for places with dedicated natural wine lists or ask your server for recommendations. Some notable mentions include:
* Potager Restaurant: Featuring a wine list that pairs perfectly with their farm-to-table cuisine.
* Coperta: An Italian restaurant with a great selection of Italian natural wines.
* Noble Riot: A wine bar dedicated to showcasing unique and interesting wines, often including natural options.
Why is Natural Wine Popular in Denver?
Denver’s adventurous culinary scene and health-conscious population have contributed to the rise of natural wine. Many people are drawn to the perceived health benefits of wines made with fewer additives. Furthermore, the unique flavor profiles and often funky character of natural wines appeal to those looking for something different from traditional wines.
FAQs About Natural Wine in Denver
What does natural wine taste like?
Natural wine can taste very different from conventional wine. Flavors can range from fruity and floral to earthy and even slightly funky. Some common descriptors include cider-like, barnyard-esque, or pétillant naturel (lightly sparkling).
Is natural wine healthier than regular wine?
While there is no definitive scientific consensus, many believe that the lack of additives and lower sulfur content in natural wine make it a healthier option. However, it’s still alcohol, so moderation is key.
How can I identify a natural wine?
Look for wines labeled as “organic,” “biodynamic,” or “low-intervention.” Asking the wine shop or restaurant staff is also a good way to identify natural wines.
Is natural wine more expensive?
The price of natural wine can vary. Some are relatively affordable, while others can be quite expensive, depending on the producer and the quality of the grapes.
Where can I learn more about natural wine?
Attend a wine tasting event, read books and articles on natural wine, or consult with a knowledgeable wine shop owner.
Summary
Denver’s natural wine scene is thriving, offering a diverse range of options for those looking to explore this unique style of winemaking. From dedicated wine shops to restaurants embracing low-intervention practices, there are plenty of opportunities to discover the world of natural wine in Denver.
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