When it comes to organic wine, more and more consumers are wondering about the presence of sulfites , compounds often singled out for their side effects. But what do you really need to know? Does organic wine have more, less, or the same amount of sulfites as conventional wine? And are there really sulfite-free wines? We take a look.
What is a sulfite and why is it used in wine?
Sulfites (or sulfur dioxide – SO₂) are additives that have been used since ancient times to stabilize wine. They allow:
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to avoid oxidation,
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to prevent refermentation,
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and to extend conservation.
All wines (even natural or organic) can contain sulfites — whether added or naturally present in small quantities after fermentation.
Do organic wines contain sulfites?
Yes, but in small quantities.
Organically grown wines have stricter regulations regarding the maximum amount of sulfites allowed:
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Organic red wine: max. 100 mg/l (compared to 150 mg/l in conventional wine)
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Organic white/rosé wine: max. 150 mg/l (compared to 200 mg/l for conventional wine)
👉 This means that organic wine generally contains fewer sulfites than conventional wine , while ensuring good product stability.
Which wines do not contain sulfites?
We are talking here about wines without added sulfites .
It is very rare to find a wine that is completely sulfite-free, as alcoholic fermentation naturally produces small traces of SO₂ . However, some winemakers, often biodynamic or natural wine producers, choose not to add sulfites at all , resulting in wines that are:
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more fragile,
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often more alive,
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but to be kept with care.
Does organic wine use sulfites?
Yes, but in limited doses.
Even if organic wine aims to be as natural as possible, the addition of sulfites remains authorized within certain limits , to guarantee conservation and avoid microbiological alterations.
What are the side effects of sulfites in wine?
In sensitive individuals, sulfites can cause:
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migraines or headaches,
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allergic reactions (especially in asthmatics),
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digestive disorders.
But these reactions concern a minority of the population . The vast majority of consumers tolerate them well, especially at the doses present in organic wines.
