Organic Wine - What's the buzz?

More consumers of alcohol are becoming aware of the potential health risks associated with liquor consumption. This has also driven recent trends in the low- and no-alcohol consumption stats and also given increased awareness to the organic and lower sulfur categories of wine.

There exists a common misconception that organic wine and low sulfur wine are one and the same. While certain wines may overlap both categories, the truth is that they don’t always mean the same thing. Here’s what you need to know to clear up the confusion—and why organic wine is more than just a fancy stamp on the label.

Organic Wine – It’s All About the Vineyard

Organic farming isn’t just a claim - it’s a process outlining how the grapes need to be farmed. Organic certified means that no synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers are used in the management of pest control and soil health.

Organic vineyards are also regularly audited to ensure that all practices meet the prescribed standards required. To further entrench the level of integrity and transparency, organic certified farms may have unannounced audits, thereby ensuring strict adherence to the regulations. The dedication of some of our producers is evident in their actions, such as planting tall spruce trees along the edges of their vineyards to shield the land from pesticides that may drift over from nearby conventional farms. This unwavering commitment to the environment is a distinguishing characteristic of organic wines.

Some innovative vineyards are using natural methods to reduce the need for chemicals and improve the overall health of the ecosystem in the following ways:

• At Masottina SPA (Italy), the farm uses copper sulfate (a naturally occurring element that acts as a biodisruptor for cellular processes) instead of pesticides to protect the vines. It’s a way to fight disease without harming the environment.
• Vineyards plant cover crops like clover to return nitrogen to the soil, instead of relying on synthetic fertilizers.
• Ducks and ladybugs are introduced to the vineyards as a means of natural pest control – they will eat any nasties that have found their way onto the vines and the ducks also provides great photos for the visiting tourists!

I have it on anecdotal evidence that one of our premier organic farmers has recently questioned flying globally to promote organic wines, acknowledging that the carbon emissions from those trips is in conflict with their ethos.

The Role of Sulfur in Wine – Why It’s Used

Many people associate sulfur with harmful chemicals and terrible allergies, but it's actually a natural compound that plays an essential role in winemaking. Sulfur is used to preserve the wine, preventing spoilage, oxidation, and the growth of harmful bacteria.

• When grapes are picked, they may be treated with sulfur to help prevent spoilage and oxidation before the fermentation process even begins.
• During bottling, sulfur dioxide is often added to stabilize the wine, ensuring it remains fresh and age-worthy.

While organic wines may use less sulfur than conventional wines, it’s important to note that all wines may contain some level of sulfur, even if it's naturally occurring. Organic wines generally aim for lower levels of sulfur but still rely on it to maintain wine quality and ensure that it doesn't spoil prematurely.

Producers like The Ahrens Family Wines take it a step further with meticulous berry sorting when the grapes enter the cellar: by sorting through the grapes and ensuring that only the healthiest fruit makes it to the fermentation process, the need for excessive sulfur use in the winemaking process is reduced.

Why Does This Matter?

To conclude, organic does not mean sulfur free and low sulfur does not mean organic - always check the labels or talk to the winemaker to make sure you know what is in your glass.

If you're seeking healthier, more natural wines, knowing where your wine comes from and how it is produced is key. Organic wine isn’t just a trend—it’s a movement toward a more sustainable, environmentally conscious way of producing wine. And the best part? You’re drinking a product that is good for both the planet and your health.

#wine #winetasting #organicfarming Kaapzicht Wine Estate Benguela Cove Masottina #AhrensFamilyWines

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