Setting a New Standard for Organic Red Wines

At Mai Vino- we understand that everyone loves a glass of red wine; whether it be a Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, or Pinot Noir, there are many beautiful options to choose from. Whether you like Malbec from Mendocino, Shiraz (Syrah) from Sicily, Spanish Tempranillo, Chianti, Languedoc Grenache, or Cabernet Franc, there’s a red wine for every occasion.

And for the more adventurous, fruity Zinfandel from Sonoma, Sangiovese, Rhone reds, and the wines from Bonterra in Chile are some of the best. When dealing with roasted red meats, a good-old California red blend is infinitely more versatile than a glass of white wine. However, nothing tops a fine champagne or prosecco (sparkling wine) when celebrating a big moment.

We love red wine, but there’s a problem, few of them are organic. In fact, only 3% of wine sold in the US is organic. So, what exactly is organic red wine? What are added sulfites? Why do so few winemakers adopt sustainable practices in their winemaking process? Does the USDA have something to do with it?

Here’s all you need to know about wine with minimal sulfites, made with no herbicides, pesticides, or additives aiming at sustainability. From natural wine to wine made with organic grapes, every wine enthusiast needs to know about the best organic wines.

What is Organic Wine?

There’s a difference between organic wine and wine made with organic grapes. Wine made with organic grapes is made with fruit grown with no additives, herbicides, or artificial fertilizers — just like any other organic fruit or veggie. Often, these wines will have non-organic additives added post fermentation to create a consistent flavor. Biodynamic wines are also grown organically - however, not all organic wines are biodynamic.

On the other hand, authentic organic wine is grown without pesticides and herbicides and uses minimal sulfites to preserve wine. What are sulfites? Sulfites are a naturally occurring compound produced during fermentation and protect the wine from bacterial contamination and oxidation. Sulfites keep the wine’s tannins, acidity, and aromas during and after fermentation.

So, what’s unique about organic red wine? Organic wine, no matter its color, is more complex than regular wine, as it is “still alive” in a way. It is not a sterile liquid but the result of wild fermentation and many biochemical transformations. For many wine lovers, organic wine is the only authentic wine.

And then there’s the question. Why would a winery or Domaine choose to make organic wine? Organic farming produces fewer carbon emissions and is better for soil and human health. Would you want it in your wine if you don’t want herbicides and pesticides in your food? 

Organic Red Wine FAQ

Which red wines are organic?

Any red wine can be organic - it depends on the farming techniques used. Organic farming is more expensive and requires more handiwork. 

Is organic red wine better for you?

The best organic red wine is better for you, the farmers, and the planet. Consuming fewer chemicals is always better for you and exposing farmers to fewer chemicals is better for them... Lastly, organic farming is a more sustainable practice and better for soil health since you’re tampering less with the soil and the ecosystem that lives around it.

What is the healthiest red wine to drink?

The healthiest wine to drink is the one you drink in moderation, as no alcoholic beverage comes without health concerns. Red wine with lots of tannins, like Cabernet Sauvignon, has more antioxidants than others, so they are better for you.

Does organic wine make a difference? What are the benefits of organic red wine?

Organic wine makes a difference in the environment, as artificial fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides can pollute the soil and water and are not environmentally friendly. For wine lovers, organic wine offers a more honest expression of the land and more exciting flavors and aromas.

What makes organic wine different?

Organic wine is made with organically grown grapes with minimal additives and minimal sulfites.

What is the difference between organic and non-organic wine?

Non-organic wine is often fertilized with artificial chemicals and harmful substances. In the winery, non-organic producers can add anything to the wine, from acid to tannins. Organic wine is made with a minimal interventionist approach.

What makes a wine organic?

Organic grapes are grown with no artificial additives like every other organic food. Producers won’t add chemicals, preservatives, or additives to the wine.

Does organic wine taste better?

Good organic wine tastes like good regular wine. It all comes down to the winemaker and their techniques. Organic wine cannot taste all that good for the inexperienced if contaminated by fungi and bacteria. Connoisseurs learn to appreciate the funk!

At Mai Vino, our organic Pinot Noir is the perfect summer red wine that can be served with a slight chill. One of our primary goals is to take the art of everyday high-quality drinkable wines and make natural wine more accessible.

Mai Vino has a perfect bag design, portable for summer gatherings, our “Forever Fresh” Bagnum keeps your wine in perfect condition, and during your ordering experience, our wine professionals will ensure freshness with delivery text alerts from point of purchase to your front door.