Biodynamic winemaking is next-level organic. It treats the vineyard as a living ecosystem, aligning farming practices with lunar cycles, and using compost teas and natural preparations to nurture the vines. Sounds woo-woo? Maybe. But many of the world’s best wineries swear by it. The result is often wines with purity, vibrancy, and a deeper connection to their origin. Look for Demeter-certified bottles or ask us to guide you to the biodynamic side. Whether you believe in moon magic or just want delicious wine, it’s worth a taste.

Decanting isn’t just for expensive Bordeaux or vintage Burgundy. Even your weeknight $15 bottle can shine with a little air. Pouring wine into a decanter (or even just a clean glass pitcher) helps expose it to oxygen, unlocking hidden aromas, softening tannins, and smoothing out sharp edges. Young reds and bold whites—like Syrah, Malbec, or oaked Chardonnay—can taste more balanced and expressive with as little as 20–30 minutes of breathing time. Even inexpensive wines benefit from this simple step. Don’t have a decanter? Pour it into a glass and swirl generously. This isn’t wine snobbery—it’s science. Oxygen is wine’s friend (at least in the short term). Give your wine a chance to show off. You’ll be surprised how even a “meh” bottle becomes memorable.

“Clean wine” is a trendy term that’s not regulated—and often used more for branding than actual winemaking. All wines are made from grapes, but how those grapes are grown and how much is added (like sulfites or filtering agents) can vary. A better term might be “low-intervention” or “transparent production.” Organic and biodynamic wines follow stricter farming practices. But “clean” doesn’t necessarily mean healthier, lower in alcohol, or hangover-free. Don’t fall for the buzzwords. Instead, look for producers who care about sustainability, balance, and transparency. Or better yet, ask us. We’ve got receipts and recs.

Wine glasses do more than just look pretty—they’re essential tools for unlocking aroma, flavor, and texture. The shape of a glass determines how wine flows across your tongue and how aromas concentrate near your nose. A Burgundy glass with a wide bowl brings out the nuance in Pinot Noir and Nebbiolo, while a narrower glass keeps sparkling wine vibrant and bubbly. Even whites benefit from the right glass—one that showcases aromatics and acidity. It’s not just about snobbery; it’s science. But don’t get overwhelmed: start with three basics—a red wine glass, a white wine glass, and a flute or tulip for bubbles. Once you experience how much a glass can change your perception of the same wine, you’ll never go back. That said, we also fully support sipping from a mason jar on a Tuesday if that’s your mood.

“Oaky” wines get their flavor from aging in oak barrels. Depending on the type of oak (French, American) and how heavily it’s toasted, the wine can pick up notes of vanilla, coconut, spice, caramel, or even smoke. It can also add structure and a creamy texture. Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are classic oak-lovers, but winemakers are getting creative with oak across many varietals. If you like baking spice vibes, oaky might be your thing. If not? Look for “unoaked” or “neutral oak” on labels. At Revival, we’ll help you find your sweet (or smoky) spot.

Natural wine is having its moment—and we’re here for it. But let’s not pretend every cloudy, funk-forward bottle is automatically great. “Natural” doesn’t guarantee quality; it simply means minimal intervention: no additives, native yeast, little to no sulfur. When done well, it produces wines that are vibrant, alive, and expressive of place. But when rushed or poorly made, it can lead to wines that are flawed, volatile, or downright unpleasant. Like any winemaking style, natural wine still needs skill, intention, and balance. It’s not about worshiping at the altar of “funk” but appreciating wines that are delicious and different. So yes, support low-intervention winemakers. Yes, try that orange wine from Slovenia. But don’t let the label—or the haze—fool you into thinking it’s inherently better. Great wine is great wine, no matter how it’s made.