A guide to natural wine in Lisbon
What is natural wine?
Natural wine is a type of wine made with a minimal intervention approach in the vineyard and the winemaking process. It aims to create wine that is a pure expression of the grapes and the terroir (the environmental factors, including soil, climate, and geography, that influence a wine's character). Here are some key features of natural wine:
🧑🏽🌾 Organic or Biodynamic Farming: Natural winemakers often use organic or biodynamic farming practices, which avoid synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. This approach promotes healthier, more sustainable vineyards.
🧪 No Added Chemicals: Natural winemakers avoid adding chemicals or additives to the wine. This includes avoiding sulfites, which are commonly used as preservatives in conventional wines. Sulfites can cause allergic reactions in some people.
🍾 Minimal Filtration and Fining: Natural wines are often minimally filtered and fined. This means that they may appear cloudy or have sediment in the bottle. It's a deliberate choice to preserve the wine's natural flavors and textures.
🚜 Low Intervention: Natural winemaking minimizes human intervention in the winemaking process. This allows the wine to develop naturally and encourages the expression of its unique characteristics.
🍇 Varied Styles: Natural wines can vary widely in taste, aroma, and texture. Some may have a more rustic or funky quality, while others may be clean and fresh. The lack of standardization is part of the appeal for enthusiasts.
⛰️ Emphasis on Terroir: Natural winemakers often prioritize showcasing the influence of the vineyard's terroir in their wines. The flavors and aromas are meant to reflect the specific location where the grapes were grown.
😵 Hangover: Some say natural wine causes milder hangovers, blaming sulfites in regular wine for the morning-after misery. Others call it nonsense. What do you think?
It's important to note that "natural wine" is not a regulated term, and there is no official certification for natural wines. As a result, the interpretation and practice of natural winemaking can vary among producers. If you're interested in trying natural wines, it's a good idea to explore and discover which styles align with your taste preferences. Read more on this Vox natural wine explainer
My top 6 wine bars in Lisbon
#1 Black Sheep
Located in the charming praça das Flores, graced by a picturesque fountain, it's where locals and travelers seamlessly blend. Explore a wide selection of wines ranging from all corners of Portugal to countries like Slovenia, Italy, and Spain. The real gem? Orange wine is the star attraction here!
#2 Bom Bom Bom
#3 Holy Wine
This snug little bar, perfectly situated for soaking in the charm of Lisbon's streets, lets you watch the iconic tram 28 glide past. It's more than a bar; you're practically part of the city's heartbeat.
#4 Red Nose
My top choice by far, it's located in the charming neighborhood of Campo de Ourique. The wine guru owner here passionately explains terroir, where grapes are grown organically and biodynamically. My favs? Anything red and white, each sip tells a story. Try also kombucha ;)
#5 Senhor Uva
This is the perfect spot to indulge in organic veggie tapas paired with top-notch wines. A haven for those who appreciate the finer things in life. I always go with the rosé—it's a perfect match!
#6 O Pif
A peaceful sanctuary off the tourist trail to unwind with a glass of wine. Don't miss the chance to savor Portuguese wine and try vinho verde!
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