Does the Absence of Preservatives Affect the Quality and Taste of Wine

Wine is more than just the glass of goodness that you drink with dinner; it’s also a great conversation starter when you have guests over. Whether you want your late-night party to run until late or to make your cooking more fun and adventurous, wine is a savvy choice. The comfort, relief, and buzz you get from the first gulps of wine after getting home, unwinding from a long day’s work, is irreplaceable. Many researchers claim that opening a bottle of red (natural and organic) even have major health benefits; nevertheless, moderation is key.

With all the comfort and benefits, this ultimate relaxing drink can be the best remedy for a good or bad day. Usually, people consider the colour, smell, and taste to choose the best wine for their needs. But the buzz created by the term “preservative-free wine” has made people worry about the wine’s texture, colour, and taste. Is it true that the absence of preservatives affects the quality and taste of the wine? Let’s find out!

What Is Preservative-Free Wine?

Preservative-free wine doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives or additives and is made from organic grapes. This type of wine is devoid of any chemicals or sulphites. However, sulphur dioxide, a natural preservative, is released during the wine-making process. Organic red wine is also made using quality grapes that are grown without the use of chemical fertilisers or pesticides. Moreover, these types of wines are vegan-friendly, which indicates that they do not contain any animal products. As preservative-free wines are not exposed to any chemical or artificial preservatives, they are flavourful, aromatic, and healthier than their conventional counterparts.

Artificial Preservatives Added to Wine

Generally, artificial preservatives like sulphites are added to wine to prolong its shelf life. Some of the additives added include: –

• Potassium sorbate – This preservative is commonly used in sweet wine to prevent the growth of bacteria.
• Sodium benzoate – The less common preservative used to prevent the growth of bacteria.
• Potassium metabisulphite – Commonly used in dry white wines and added before bottling to act as an antioxidant and antibacterial agent.  

Usually, these preservatives are found in commercial wines that are mass-produced. They are used to preserve the quality and taste of the wine.

How Harmful Are Artificial Preservatives in Wine?

Artificial preservatives found in wine can cause a range of health conditions that compromise the quality of life. In some people, these artificial preservatives may react negatively, increasing the risk of certain allergies and medical conditions. At the same time, organic red wines are free from artificial preservatives and chemical additives, which results in the consumption of wine in its purest and freshest form.

Natural Preservatives in Wine

Natural wine is made without any chemical additives or preservatives but contains natural preservatives that prolong its shelf life. These natural preservatives come from the grapes, yeasts, and bacteria used during the fermentation process of the wine. These preservatives naturally found in wine prevent oxidation and extend the shelf-life of the wine. The common natural preservatives found in wine are: –

• Sulphur dioxide – Prevents oxidation and prolongs the shelf life of wine
• Tannins – Preserves the texture of the wine and balances out its acidity levels
• Volatile Acidity – Provides sourness to the wine

Does Preservative-Free Wine Affect Wine Taste?

No! Although preservative-free wine is not treated with artificial preservatives, it is rich in natural preservatives that give preservative-free wine a fresher taste and aroma compared to its conventional counterparts. As there are no chemical additives or preservatives, natural wine has a deep and intense flavour with a vibrant hue. This type of wine is not exposed to added preservatives and is made with minimal manipulation of grapes and other ingredients, resulting in a more natural flavour and taste. It also provides wine drinkers with a taste that’s closer to the way the wine was originally made. However, the lack of preservatives may lead to an off-putting bitter aftertaste that may taste unpleasant for some people.

Wrapping Up

Organic wines made without preservatives has intense flavours and aromas. However, the taste may differ based on the quality of the grapes used and the wine-making process. While natural wine offers an intense flavour profile, the lack of artificial preservatives makes organic wines delicate and requires careful storage and handling. Whether you choose preservative-free wine or not purely depends on your individual preference. If you are looking for a unique flavour and taste experience, organic, preservative-free wine can be your wise choice.