Vin Doux Naturel Winemaking

Definition - What does Vin Doux Naturel mean?

Vin Doux Naturel (VDN) is a term for a style of French dessert wine that translates to 'naturally sweet wine.' The 'natural' aspect refers to the method of preserving the natural grape sugars by arresting fermentation through mutage, which is the addition of grape spirit. This process retains a significant amount of the grape's original sweetness while increasing the alcohol content. VDN wines are renowned for their rich, luscious flavors and are often made from Muscat or Grenache grapes.

Oenologist's Insight on Vin Doux Naturel Winemaking

The art of making Vin Doux Naturel involves careful timing and balance. By adding alcohol at a precise moment during fermentation, winemakers can create a wine that strikes a harmonious balance between sweetness, alcohol, and acidity. VDNs are typically aged for several years, which allows them to develop complex flavor profiles, including notes of honey, candied fruits, and spices. They are often enjoyed as an aperitif or with dessert and are cherished for their depth of flavor and longevity.