Natural wine, also known as low-intervention wine, is “the practice of making wine with organically farmed grapes that are fermented without the addition or removal of anything (sulfites) in the process.” Though it’s viewed as a more recent movement, natural wine drinkers would argue that it’s the way wine should be made and enjoyed—free of sulfates and additives that might diminish the integrity of the winemaking process. There’s a lot of hype surrounding natural wine, and many might be wondering where to find it to see if it lives up to the excitement. For Jersey City locals and nearby residents, there are more natural wine options than you might think. Here’s where to get natural wine in Jersey City.
1. Frankie
Frankie, an Australian wine bar and restaurant in downtown Jersey City, has an extensive natural wine selection. Co-owner Rowen McDermott described their offerings to The Digest in a previous interview as a “balance of the weird and the wonderful,” and it’s true. From Australia to South Africa to France, Frankie’s collection includes unique natural wines from across the globe.
You can place an order online to pick up at the restaurant’s pop-up shop. Or visit in person on any evening from Wednesday to Sunday. Frankie also welcomes guests for outdoor dining only with a creative and cozy enclosed set-up.
2. Jersey City Super Buy-Rite
The state’s largest wine and liquor store of course has a natural wine selection. Jersey City Super Buy-Rite carries an array of natural wines, like this Italian red that hails from Sicily and is fermented in clay amorphae (an ancient practice). Or this semi-sparkling white wine from Really Awesome Wine. Peruse their website, visit the store, or call to find out the latest updates in their natural wine options.
3. Pet Shop
Local bar and restaurant Pet Shop takes natural wine seriously. The shop offers natural wines “made by farmers, grapes, the forces that be, and very little else” and a vegetarian/vegan menu. Though PS Wine Bar (housed beneath the dining space) is not currently operating due to COVID, you can still enjoy a bite to eat with a glass of wine in Pet Shop’s regular dining room every day of the week.
4. CoolVines
With locations in Jersey City, Hoboken, and Newark, CoolVines seeks to provide its customers with wines that are “the best of their breed.” CoolVines carries a variety of organic and natural wines, like the fruity orange wine Controvento Doccia Fredda. CoolVines also hosts socially distant wine tastings at the store. They’ve previously done tastings with noted natural wine distributor Rosenthal Wine Merchants, so keep an eye out on their social media to see if any more pop up!
5. Riverview Wine & Spirits
With a mission to provide “real wine made by real people who hand-picked their grapes, got dirt under their fingernails, and respected the whimsies of nature,” Riverview Wine & Spirits knows natural wine. The store sells a variety of natural wines, and shopping currently takes places entirely online. Choose from their wide selection, and check out their Instagram, as they’re always posting details about their latest additions. Pick up your order curbside, or place a delivery order if you live in Hudson, Bergen, or Essex counties. Riverview Wines also sells e-gift cards if you’re looking to give a picky wine lover the option to choose their own bottle.
6. Madame Claude Wine
Madame Claude Wine in Jersey City carries a handful of natural wine options, though their selection is more heavily focused on organic wines (yes, they’re different!). The French wine shop boasts a friendly and helpful staff, so pop by or call to speak to an expert on their natural wine options and more.
7. The Natural Wine Shoppe
Though the store is based online, the Natural Wine Shoppe’s Jersey City roots are inescapable. Dante DeCicco, a Jersey City native, and co-owner Greg Edsall opened the store to share “the very best in low intervention wine sourced from around the globe.” The Natural Wine Shoppe includes dozens of thoughtfully curated reds, rosés, orange wines, and plenty more for delivery straight to your doorstep.
8. Jersey Wine and Spirits
Jersey Wine and Spirits offers an array of wines, beers, and spirits—and there’s no shortage of natural wine choices, either. While there are plenty to choose from, notable options include Christina Orange Chardonnay, hailing from a young winemaker’s business in Austria, or this aromatic natural red wine recently plugged on their Instagram. Check out their website or visit the store to browse more of the natural wine selection.
Were you familiar with the places on our list of where to get natural wine in Jersey City? Are we missing any spots? Let us know in the comments!
Main image by @frankieeatsjc
