Wine, Grapes & the Environment

Wine, Grapes & the Environment

By: Kathy Hallren

A week does not go by without someone asking me about sulfites or organic wine. So, I am going to try to shed a little light on the subject.

Let’s start with sulfites. Sulfites occur naturally as part of the fermentation process. However, the Romans discovered that adding additional sulfites substantially extended the time the wine remained drinkable. Since, vintners have added sulfites. Today, very few “no detectable sulfites” wines are available, due to their low shelf life.

Regulations in the U.S. and European Union limit the amount of sulfite that can be present in wine, and the level at which wine can be labelled no detectable sulfites. The upper limit for sulfites is higher in the U.S. than the European Union.

Red wines and sweet wines have less sulfites added, because the tannins and sugars are also natural preservatives. Many consumers believe that organic wines do not contain sulfites, but this is incorrect. Organic wines contain no added sulfites.

Now, let’s look at organic wines. Organic wines actually fall in two categories: wines made from organically grown grapes and those using organically grown grapes and are vinified without additional chemicals and segregated from any contamination. The label will bear a certification that cannot appear without approval from the USDA and the Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Agencies. The U.S. and the European Union have very similar regulations for this designation.

Sustainably grown grapes are planted and maintained to minimize the environmental impact. Drip systems for irrigation, cover crops between rows, insects and animals (sheep and chickens), night harvesting and many other strategies are used to reduce the environmental impact of vineyards. However there are no specific regulations. Several groups offer inspections and certifications and each has somewhat different standards.

Biodynamic growing practices incorporate both the organic standards and sustainable strategies, following practices first established by an Austrian scientist in the 1920s, including planting and harvesting based on the lunar cycle and other astrological matters.

Many local retailers can help you identify wines that are organic, sustainably grown or biodynamic. Expect to pay a little more for these wines, but know that you are helping the environment.

Enjoy.

Kathy