When it comes to choosing a wine that contains the least amount of chemicals, many people lean towards organic wine. Organic wines are produced using organic grapes that are grown without the use of any synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, or GMOs. This means that during the winemaking process, no artificial additives or chemicals are introduced, ensuring a purer and more natural product.
Organic certification for wine goes beyond just the grapes. In order for a wine to be certified organic by the USDA, all additives used in the winemaking process must also be certified organic. This includes yeast, which is commonly used to aid fermentation. By using certified organic yeast, winemakers can be sure that no additional chemicals or synthetic substances are added to the wine.
Choosing an organic wine not only reduces the potential exposure to harmful chemicals, but it also supports sustainable and environmentally-friendly farming practices. Organic vineyards prioritize biodiversity, soil health, and natural pest control, resulting in a healthier ecosystem and higher quality grapes.
While organic wines are a great option for those seeking minimal chemical exposure, it’s important to note that not all organic wines are created equal. Some wineries go above and beyond by following biodynamic or natural winemaking practices.
Biodynamic Wines: Taking Organic to the Next Level
Biodynamic wines take organic farming principles even further by incorporating holistic farming methods. These practices consider not only the vineyards but also the entire farm ecosystem. Biodynamic wineries focus on creating a self-sustaining ecosystem that promotes biodiversity and soil fertility.
Biodynamic vineyards follow a lunar calendar for planting, pruning, and harvesting, believing that the moon’s gravitational pull affects the energy and growth of the vines. Biodynamic winemakers also create their compost and natural fertilizers using diverse plant and animal inputs. This ensures a biological balance within the vineyard and minimizes the need for external chemical inputs.
Natural Wines: Unfiltered and Unfettered
Another category of wine that often contains minimal additives and chemicals is natural wine. Natural wines are made with minimal intervention during the winemaking process. They are often unfiltered and unfined, allowing the wine to retain its natural flavors, aromas, and textures.
Natural winemakers use wild, native yeasts instead of commercial yeasts to initiate fermentation. They also avoid the use of additives such as sulfur dioxide, which is commonly used as a preservative in conventional winemaking. By reducing the use of chemical interventions, natural winemakers aim to create a wine that truly reflects the terroir and unique characteristics of the grape varietals.
It’s important to note that while organic, biodynamic, and natural wines generally contain fewer chemicals, they are not completely devoid of them. Some naturally occurring sulfites, a byproduct of the fermentation process, may still be present in these wines. However, they are typically found in much lower levels compared to conventionally produced wines.
In Conclusion
If you are looking for a wine with the least amount of chemicals, organic, biodynamic, and natural wines are excellent options to consider. These types of wines prioritize sustainability, biodiversity, and minimal intervention, resulting in a purer and more natural product. Whether you choose an organic wine produced without synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, a biodynamic wine that utilizes holistic farming practices, or a natural wine with minimal intervention, you can enjoy a glass with the knowledge that you are reducing your exposure to unnecessary chemicals.
