My top 10 natural wine discoveries in 2022
Simon chooses 10 wines that surprised and delighted him in 2022.
Protected: Book review: Paul James White – Talha Tales
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Raúl Moreno – La Quimera 2021
When Raúl Moreno tells you he’s growing Pinot Noir in Jerez, you think he must be out of his mind. But goodness, the results are so elegant and fresh. Of his three Pinot cuvées, La Quimera is the most meaty Read more
Raúl Moreno – La Inflexion 2021
An absolute charmer on the nose and the palate, this unique blend (for Jerez at least) offers up bright red berry fruits and a lick of orange zest. The palate feels juicy and elegant, very fruit focused but in no Read more
Raúl Moreno – La Castidad 2021
Crushed cherries and earth on the nose, with a tiny hint of toastiness. Delicious sour cherry and raspberry fruit on the palate with subtle yet pointed tannins that add to the feeling of refreshment. There is some kind of magic Read more
Parés Balta – Satèl.lit 2018
The nose and the colour suggest a bit of oxidation, with some herbal notes, a bit of honey and a hint of grandma’s perfume. The palate in contrast feels lively and youthful, with bright citrus tones intermingled with apricot tones. Read more
Parés Balta – Satèl.lit 2017
There’s more noticeable oak influence on the nose here, compared to the 2018 vintage – some toasty, vanilla hints. But on the palate it’s really bright and fresh, barely giving any clue as to its maturity. There’s a pleasing generosity Read more
Raúl Moreno – La Contraluz 2021
Aged under flor, this is a fascinating kind of hybrid – half Fino sherry, half dry Palomino Fino. The nose has a delightful nuttiness – toasted almonds, with a lick of chamomile. The acidity feels bracing, but there are plenty Read more
Citizen Wine – Ginja Ninja Natural Orange Wine 2021
Defiantly cloudy, and with a take no prisoners nose – ripe tangerine and ginger, a bit volatile (but to me, well within acceptable limits). It opens out to a no less expressive palate with wild plum, geranium and fresh tarragon. Read more
Tasting Romanian natural wine with Philip Cox
Tasting Romanian natural wines with the owner of one of the largest wineries in Romania – Philip Cox – might seem like an odd choice for Simon. But this meeting of two very different minds ended up being enjoyable and educational for both of us.