Chilean value abounds with Natura

Credit: Natura Wines

If you’re looking for some quality and value from Chile, the label Natura has a lot to offer.

This Chilean lineup is owned by Italian powerhouse Banfi and produced by Emiliana Organic Vineyards. So, they’re able to source a lot of good quality grapes and take advantage of the economies of scale.

Made from all organic grapes, Natura wines are sourced from vineyards in appellations like Casablanca, Colchagua, and Rapel Valleys. While sourcing all these grapes and making all these wines must be logistically complex, the varietal wines, and their label and aesthetic, are pleasantly simple in the best way for the consumer. The grape varieties or style are right there, with screw caps, and the wines are fun, fresh, and accessible. However, the quality is legit across-the-board, making these a great value and an easy purchase for parties and patio sipping.

In addition to the wines I tasted (Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon), the lineup is rounded out by the classic Chilean staples Carmenere and Malbec, along with Chardonnay and Merlot.

In addition to the easy purchase price at a time when everything seems ridiculously expensive, you can also feel good about these wines. In addition to the organic grapes, Banfi has partnered with 1% for the Planet and donates 1% of the profits of these wines to help increase regenerative organic farming in the U.S. Win-win-win.

These wines were received as samples and tasted sighted.

2022 Emiliana Sauvignon Blanc Natura - Chile, Central Valley
SRP: $15
Light straw color. Lively and spritely on the nose with green apples, kiwi, along with flinty-saline vibes, and tones of dandelion, white pepper, and some celery seed and daisies. Zesty and fun on the palate with a light frame and fresh acid, with flavors of crunchy green pears, kiwi, and cantaloupe. Notes of dried pineapple, white and yellow flowers, and welcomed tones of white pepper and sliced bell pepper. Finishes with some peach nectar and mint. Fun, crowd-pleasing stuff. (87 points)

2023 Emiliana Rosé Natura - Chile, Central Valley
SRP: $15
Pale copper color. Aromas invite all sorts of white flowers, dandelion, perfume, over red apple peel and watermelon. Crisp and refreshing on the palate with plush texture and zippy acidity, with flavors of strawberries and red apples. Nuances of white pepper, dandelion, honeysuckle, and mint add complexity. Lively, punchy, and lots of flavor and depth for a great price. A blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. (88 points)

2022 Emiliana Pinot Noir Natura - Chile, Central Valley
SRP: $15
Light ruby color. Bright strawberry and cherry aromas, with come cranberry relish, cola, rhubarb, and roses. The palate has refreshingly bright acid on a frame of soft tannins. Crunchy cranberry and red apples, fresh strawberries, with a spritely blend of non-fruit notes: dried rose petals, rhubarb, with herbal tea and hints of white pepper and some clay/earthy elements. An accessible, vibrant style, but well-balanced and fun flavor and complexity for the price. (88 points)

2022 Emiliana Cabernet Sauvignon Natura - Chile, Central Valley
SRP: $15
Light purple color. The nose pops with cranberries, red and black currants, with notes of menthol, sage, spiced tea, and anise. The palate shows smooth tannins classic Chilean crisp acidity. A fun and crunchy appeal but nice depth and texture, with a blend of red and black currants and cherries. Notes of spiced tea, tobacco, some black pepper, and some earthy and graphite elements. Spicy and floral with a lot of complexity. (89 points)