The Best Natural Wines for Your Next Backyard Grill Out

Elevate Your BBQ with Natural Wines

As the sun blazes and the grill sizzles, there's nothing quite like a backyard barbecue to celebrate the warmth of summer. But beyond the burgers and hot dogs, there's another element that can truly elevate your grilling experience: the perfect wine pairing. While conventional wines may seem like the obvious choice, natural and organic wines offer a unique and refreshing twist that complements your barbecue feast in ways you might not expect.

Why Choose Natural Wines for Your BBQ?

Natural wines, often produced using organic or biodynamic methods, stand out for their vibrant flavors and refreshing acidity. These wines are crafted with minimal intervention, allowing the grapes and terroir to shine through. Here's why they're a fantastic choice for your next barbecue:

• Lighter and More Refreshing: Natural wines tend to be lighter in body and higher in acidity, making them perfect for cutting through the richness of grilled meats and smoky flavors.
• Intense Fruit Flavors: Organic grapes, grown without the use of pesticides and herbicides, often produce wines with more intense and complex fruit flavors, complementing the sweet and savory notes of your barbecue dishes.
• Low in Sulfites: Many natural wines are lower in sulfites, a common wine additive that can cause headaches in some people. This makes them a more enjoyable choice for those sensitive to sulfites.
• Sustainable and Ethical: By choosing natural wines, you're supporting sustainable and ethical farming practices that protect the environment and the health of the grapevines.

Natural Wine Recommendations for Your BBQ

Here are some natural wine recommendations that will pair perfectly with your favorite barbecue dishes:

For Burgers and Hot Dogs:

• Gamay: This light-bodied red wine from France offers juicy red fruit flavors and a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness of burgers and hot dogs.
• Pinot Noir: With its delicate tannins and earthy notes, Pinot Noir is a versatile pairing for both grilled meats and lighter barbecue fare.

For Grilled Chicken and Fish:

• Rosé: The vibrant acidity and fruit flavors of rosé make it an ideal pairing for grilled chicken and fish. Choose a dry rosé with hints of citrus or berry for a refreshing touch.
• Sauvignon Blanc: The crisp acidity and herbaceous notes of Sauvignon Blanc cleanse the palate and complement the delicate flavors of grilled chicken and fish.

For Grilled Vegetables:

• Grüner Veltliner: This Austrian white wine boasts a refreshing acidity and subtle mineral notes that pair beautifully with grilled vegetables, especially asparagus and zucchini.
• Albariño: This Spanish white wine is known for its bright acidity and citrus flavors, making it a perfect match for grilled bell peppers and eggplant.

Enjoy the Natural Difference

Next time you fire up the grill, consider reaching for a bottle of natural wine. Its unique flavors, refreshing acidity, and commitment to sustainability will elevate your backyard barbecue to a whole new level of deliciousness. Cheers to summer and natural wines!