Why You Should Rethink ‘Funky’ When Ordering Natural Wine

If you're curious about natural wines, this insider insight on 'funky' wines will change the way you approach your next order. Trust me!

The Misunderstood Charm of Funky Wine

When we dive into the world of natural wine, it’s almost inevitable to encounter the term “funky.” As a passionate wine enthusiast, I’ve often found myself at tastings where guests express their desire for something “funky.” But what does that really mean? Is it just a buzzword, or is there more beneath the surface? Devon Fleming, beverage manager at Nudibranch, sheds light on this confusion.

Fleming explains that many people interchange “funky” with “natural,” which creates a misunderstanding. They might assume all natural wines possess that eccentric funkiness, but in reality, it’s a much broader conversation. From my experiences exploring various vineyards and tasting rooms, I can attest to this complexity; not every bottle labeled as natural offers that adventurous twist.

Breaking Down What ‘Funky’ Means

When someone requests a funky wine, they could be asking for something without sulfur or perhaps something unfiltered and cloudy. Each interpretation is unique and based on personal preferences. During one memorable tasting, a friend asked for something funky and ended up with a lively orange wine that was brimming with character—yet it wasn’t flawed by any means.

Here’s what Fleming suggests asking when someone uses the term funky:

• Are they looking for a little reduction or more volatile acidity?
• Do they want something chuggable?
• Are they after an adventure in flavor?
  Understanding these nuances helps guide sommeliers in selecting wines that truly resonate with the drinker’s palate.

The Adventure Awaits in Every Bottle

What I love about ordering natural wine is how it opens up conversations about taste and texture. When you ask for something funky, you’re expressing a willingness to explore the dynamic world of wine! It’s like saying you want to go off the beaten path—a sentiment shared by many modern drinkers looking for authenticity.

Devon emphasizes how using the word ‘funky’ can actually reveal your adventurous side to sommeliers. Just like her guests who are willing to explore different flavors, I find myself enjoying those unexpected pairings more than ever before. A bold red with hints of earthiness once surprised me; its character felt alive in my glass!

Why Natural Wine Deserves More Than One Label

Natural wines are often misperceived due to their association with funkiness. While it’s true that some have unusual flavors or aromas, others present classic characteristics reminiscent of conventional wines—just made with less intervention.

In fact, my journey through different regions taught me that not all natural wines evoke drastic reactions; some merely offer delightful simplicity yet remain true to their roots. Understanding this distinction allows us to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

This deeper understanding enriches our tasting experiences as we navigate menus filled with choices—even if we’re simply seeking something fun!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a wine ‘natural’?

Natural wine typically refers to wines made with minimal intervention during both vineyard cultivation and winemaking processes—often organic or biodynamic practices are employed.

How do I ask for natural wines without sounding confused?

Instead of using “funky,” consider specifying what attributes you’re interested in—like sulfur-free options or unfiltered selections—to ensure clarity in your request.

Can all natural wines be considered funky?

Not necessarily! While all funky wines fall under the umbrella of natural wines due to their production methods, not all natural wines exhibit funkiness.

Photo by Thomas Verbruggen on Unsplash