Organic wine has been increasing in popularity these past few years and consumers are becoming more discerning about what they put in their bodies. Majestic Wine announced an increase of 27.4% in organic wine sales this past year, which is a huge jump. For a while, with wine, it’s fair to say that it felt like a bit of a gimmick at first but now, a new generation of winemakers are very much supporting the idea that if you look after the earth, you will get better produce. I’ve tasted the result myself. Wines seem brighter, more vibrant and alive.
What does organic wine mean?
Very simply, organic wine means that it has been made with organically grown grapes. This does not mean that nothing else has been added to it, however. With organic wine, you can still use yeasts and fining agents, some of which are derived from cheese or eggs, so organic does not always equal vegan either.
As organic September draws to a close, we take a look at some delicious wines worth tasting that won’t break the bank.
White
Cono Sur Organic Chardonnay 2021 on offer at Ocado for £8
An easy drinking, ripe Chardonnay with a touch of spice from oak and lovely fresh melon character. A perfect white for the mild Autumn chill. Their Pinot Noir is also worth a try (see below).
Veramonte Reserva Organic Chardonnay 2021 from Ocado for £11.50
A bold Chardonnay with a touch of smoke and savoury minerality with a caramel pudding note on the finish. A great gastronomic wine that would love a bit of roast chicken.
Pink
TalkTV Pick: Organic Etna Rosato, 2021 at Aldi for £8.79
Wines from around the Sicilian volcano, Etna have a unique, texture mouthfeel and character thanks to the volcanic soils there and the local grape varieties used. This one has a great balance of red fruit and chalkiness all with a lovely round body. A fab, Autumnal pink.
Sumarroca Cava Rosado NV from Talking Wines for £14.99
As Cavas go, this one is exceptionally elegant and bright. Packed full of raspberry fruit and a touch of brioche, it’s a serious wine with a playful streak.
Red
TalkTV: Tilimuqui Organic Malbec, 2021 on offer at Waitrose for £7.99
Tilimuqui, up in Argentina’s Famatina Valley, make wines that are light on their feet, aromatic and bright thanks to a very dry climate, high altitude and lots of sunshine. This is a blueberry and raspberry scented Malbec that is lighter and more elegant than some.
Côtes du Rhône, Gabriel Meffre Organic, 2020 on offer at Waitrose for £7.99
When in doubt with red, pick a Côtes du Rhône, especially in the Autumn. This mid way style wine is a classic example of type with its notes of grilled meat, damson, rosemary and thyme. It’s on offer at the moment too, so grab it while you can!
Cono Sur Organic Pinot Noir, 2020 from Sainsbury’s for £9
This is a comforting, juicy Pinot with warm plum and vanilla spice character. Easy drinking and not too heavy, it’s one for a stew or a mid week shepherd's pie.
Veramonte Reserva Organic Carmenere, 2020 from Ocado for £11.50
Carmenere is Chile’s flagship red grape and is loved for its bold blackcurrant and leafy notes. This one is relatively restrained with a flinty kick on the finish.
Want to know what else we’ve been tasting on talkTV? See here!