PEOPLE TEND TO argue about what makes a wine natural. The basics are that natural wines are low-intervention wines made from organically grown grapes and harvested from independent winemakers. Essentially, they’re organic and sustainable and have none of the additives you find in most commercial wines. The best part (to me) is they have a lower ABV (alcohol by volume), so they go down easier and make for fewer hangovers.

A few years ago, I was introduced to natural wine via my best friend, who was on a wine competition team in college and explained all the notes to me. I had no idea what any of it meant, but I was hooked. A year later, I’m sitting at a bar and take one sip of a 2019 Frank Cornelissen Susucaru Rosato. It’s everything: citrusy, acidic, and tart. It’s confectionary and complex with red berries that explode in the mouth. It's basically an adult Starburst if it was finished with white pepper. Of course, such a description isn't exactly sommelier-approved.

I'm no expert, nor am I pretending to be. I’m just a person who enjoys a drinking experience that's unexpected and constantly evolving. That's what draws me to natural wines. Each one has a story attached to it — the person behind it, the grape's region, and its traditions. And because no vintage tastes the same, there's also an opportunity to attach your own story to it, including who you shared it with and the conversations you had while sipping it.

One tip I have for beginners to natural wine is that if you try something you don’t like, don’t knock the movement completely. Keep drinking. Try different regions. The journey is all part of the experience and I guarantee you will find one that you love. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just starting out, below are five great bottles to try.