As with many organic products, organic wine is becoming more widely available and offering more choice to consumers. The term ‘organic wine’ is used to describe wines made from organically grown grapes, although other ingredients are not certified. As grapes are, of course, the main ingredient this is perhaps the most important factor!
Organic wine not only uses organic grapes but is usually processed using the minimum of chemical intervention during the production process. There is, however, no agreed standard for this. It is also not compulsory for wine producers to name chemicals used within the ingredients list, with the exception of sulphite, or whether animal products have been used. Some Organic Wine producers are happy to make this information available.
Organic wine is available from around the world so there is plenty available to try! This includes a number of varieties from the UK giving the added benefits of cutting down on food miles and supporting the local economy. In addition fortified organic wine is also available with many varieties produced in the UK. England’s oldest organic vineyard is in Sussex at Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard, where you can find a range of red, white and sparkling English wines. For the largest range of organic wine, check out Vinceremos who offer wines from around the world including a few from this country. Garden Organic has an Organic Wine Club which is run by Vinceremos with details on their website.
For some more information and a long list of organic wine suppliers check out the About Organics site and also see Organic Wine reviews at our Food and Drink Green Products Review Section.
Visit the following pages for more information on organic products:
