Are you tired of waking up with a pounding headache and a nasty hangover after a night of indulging in your favourite wine? Well, the talk around the town is that the culprit might just be the preservatives used in the wine. But fear not, because we have a solution for you – natural wine delivery in Sydney! That’s right you can now enjoy your favourite wines without the added chemicals and preservatives that may be causing you discomfort.
What is a Preservative-free Wine?
A preservative-free wine is produced without the use of any chemical preservatives. Traditional wine-making often incorporates chemical substances to maintain the wine’s freshness and prevent spoilage. However, preservative-free wines are crafted using unique wine-making methodologies and stringent storage standards, which naturally keep the wine at its finest without the need for chemical additives.
Common Preservatives Used in Wine
One of the most common is sulphur dioxide (SO2), a compound known for its anti-oxidative and anti-microbial properties. It helps to prevent oxidation, which can dull a wine’s flavour and colour and protect against harmful bacteria and yeast. Another usual additive is potassium sorbate, which inhibits yeast growth, thus preventing additional fermentation in sweet wines. Also, potassium metabisulfite is often used as a cheaper alternative to sulphur dioxide. Other preservatives you might encounter include ascorbic acid, a type of vitamin C used as an antioxidant, and dimethyl dicarbonate, which eliminates unwanted microorganisms.
How are Preservative Levels in Australia Measured
The measuring unit for preservatives in wine is parts per million or ppm for short. Australian standards suggest an upper limit of 250 ppm for white wines and a slightly higher ceiling of 300 ppm for red wines. However, the actual preservative content in most wines tends to fall significantly below these recommended maximums.
The Impact of Preservatives on Wine Quality
Preservatives can greatly influence a wine’s taste and aroma, two significant components of overall wine quality. If a wine is overly laden with preservatives, it may cause a harsh, almost chemical-like aftertaste, a rather unpleasant departure from the true essence of the grape and terroir. It could also mask the delightful characteristics that make wine so enjoyable and can also potentially disrupt the natural harmony of its palate-pleasing elements.
How Do Preservatives in Wine Affect Your Health?
Understanding the potential health effects of preservatives in wine can better inform your choices when selecting your next bottle.
Wine Headaches – It’s a common belief that the sulphites found in wine could be responsible for those infamous wine headaches. While it’s true that a small percentage of people are sensitive to sulphites, causing reactions like headaches and respiratory problems, for most people, sulphites don’t cause significant issues.
Skin Allergies – Some people might experience allergic reactions, such as hives or dermatitis, due to certain preservatives in wine. If you’ve experienced such symptoms after wine consumption, it might be worth exploring preservative-free options.
Digestive Problems – Potassium sorbate, another common preservative, may cause digestive issues like nausea and diarrhea in some individuals.
Asthma Exacerbation – Certain preservatives, especially sulphites, can trigger asthma symptoms in individuals who are particularly sensitive.
Benefits of Preservative-free Wine
A Healthier Choice
Drinking preservative-free wine can be a healthier choice for many, especially those who are sensitive to additives. These wines are less likely to trigger allergies or cause digestive problems, making your wine-drinking experience more enjoyable.
True Flavours Unleashed
Without the masking effects of preservatives, the genuine, unaltered flavours of the grapes shine through. If you’re a wine enthusiast, this can enhance your appreciation of the wine’s characteristics and the terroir it hails from.
Lower Hangover Risk
Fewer preservatives may mean less severe hangovers. While the alcohol content remains the main factor in causing hangovers, reducing the preservatives in your wine might help alleviate the morning-after discomfort.
Environmental Friendliness
A preservative-free, organic wine is typically made using organic or biodynamic farming practices, which are better for the environment. By choosing these wines, you’re supporting a more sustainable wine industry.
How to Find Preservative-free Wines
Looking to uncork a bottle of preservative-free wine? Here are five tips to help you navigate the shelves with confidence.
Check the Label – Manufacturers often highlight if a wine is preservative-free, so keep an eye out for phrases like “no added sulphites” or “no preservatives added”.
Know Your Wineries – Some wineries are committed to natural wine production. Research and get to know these brands, so you can trust their offerings.
Mind the Price – Preservative-free wines often command a slightly higher price due to their meticulous production process. Don’t be discouraged – it’s usually a sign of quality.
Ask for Assistance – Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Whether you’re in a wine shop or browsing online, knowledgeable staff or a responsive customer service team can guide you towards the perfect preservative-free selection.
Can you Cellar Preservative-free Wines?
The ability to cellar a preservative free wine is a topic often up for debate, with many voicing concerns over its longevity due to the lack of added preservatives. However, it is essential to remember that the cellaring potential of such wines largely hinges upon factors like the quality and concentration of the fruit and meticulous handling during winemaking. However, cellaring these wines requires a bit more care, as they can be sensitive to changes in temperature and light. So, if you’re considering storing preservative-free wines, ensure they’re kept in optimal conditions.
The Bottom Line
Preservative-free wines offer an unadulterated drinking experience, delivering the authentic flavours of the vineyard to your glass while minimising potential adverse health effects. They are the result of careful and dedicated craftsmanship and provide a conscious choice for those seeking a purer wine experience. If stored properly, some can even be cellared to evolve into a more complex and delightful tasting experience over time. So, next time you feel like unwinding with a glass of wine, why not explore the wonderful world of preservative-free wines? It could be just the refreshing change you’ve been seeking.
