Organic wine - it's a good thing
The number of organic wineries continues to grow throughout the world. In the United States, California produces more than 90% of all of our wines, and there are almost 100 organic grape growers who farm over 8,000 acres of vineyards. Standards in Europe were used to create the standards by which wine makers in North America produce organic wines. For those who hesitate to try a glass of wine, remember that red wine has come into its own for its heart-healthy properties - antioxidants and other compounds which help to keep blood vessels healthy - when taken in moderation (about one glass/day). Organic wines are made from grapes grown in organic vineyards, and are processed using methods that keep chemicals to a minimum. (See Organic terms page.) Although some sulfites are present in organic wines, they are about 1/3 of the levels in conventional wines. Sulfites can cause severe allergic reactions and headaches in susceptible individuals. Why is this important? Because, although only small amounts of toxic chemicals have been found in the wines themselves, it is what conventional wine making does to the environment that concerns wine makers today. Organic winemakers also believe that organic wines are healthier and better tasting. Biodynamic wines, like organic wines, are made using organic grapes. However, their farming methods go a little further. (See Organic terms.) Many consumers are also requesting vegetarian wines. Not all wines are considered to be vegetarian because of some of the products used to remove colloids from the wine in the fining process (e.g. egg whites). Wines can be classified as vegetarian when clay or silica, for example, are used in this process. Wines that can call themselves vegetarian or vegan are appropriately labeled. You can click on the links below to locate fine organic, biodynamic, and vegetarian wines, both in the U.S. and abroad.
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