Sulphites in wine: the meaning and the use

The sulphites in wine are a powerful antioxidant and antibacterial, they are used to preserve the wine by avoiding oxidation. All wines contain sulphites, either added or already naturally present as a by-product of alcoholic fermentation. When necessary, they are added during the processing phases, from harvesting to bottling, in order to ensure the maximum protection of the wine.

What is the meaning of sulphites in wine

Sulphites are compounds derived from sulfur and oxygen, added to wine in the form of sulfur dioxide combined with other components.

What is the use of sulphites in wine 

Sulphites are used to preserve wine thanks to their disinfectant and antioxidant action. The same action is performed by sulphites in all types of drinks, jams and many other foods.

Sulphites in red wine

The limit allowed by law in red wines is 160 mg/litre.

Sulphites in white wine

The limit allowed by law in white wines is 200 mg/litre.

Sulphites in organic wine

The limits allowed by law are 100 mg/litre for red wines and 150 mg/litre for white wines. Despite these limitations, organic wine does not ensure that sulphite intolerances are avoided.

The sulphites in the wines of the La Marchesa wine Estate

In our Gavi the total quantity of sulphites is less than 100 mg/litre. The same quantity is present in our red wines, therefore we have a much lower level of sulphites than that allowed for organic wines. We are able to obtain these results because we cultivate the vineyards with mycorrhizae and press the grapes within 30 minutes avoiding putting sulphites in this phase of the harvest. Sulphite levels below 100 mg/litre help avoid problems with headaches and allergies.

Sulphites and mycorrhizas

Mycorrhizas are a mixture of fungi and microorganisms that colonize roots, making vine plants healthier and more vigorous. Musts with more antioxidant power are therefore collected, which allow the quantity of sulphites to be reduced.

Sulphites and green manure

Green manure consists in sowing flowers inside the rows which supply the roots of the vine with nourishment and a protective action against harmful microorganisms. The practice of green manure guarantees environmental sustainability and therefore helps to reduce the quantity of sulphites necessary to ensure the conservation of the wine.

Sulphites and cellar equipment

To reduce the amount of sulphites to the minimum necessary, it is essential to have a cellar with a cooling system that allows you to keep the temperature of the steel tanks in which the wine is kept under control.

Sulphites in wine and headaches

Sulfites bind to oxygen in the blood and temporarily reduce the flow of oxygen to the brain causing temporary headaches. The effect of sulfites is inversely proportional to the weight of the person, this is the reason why headaches are more frequent in women. It’s the sulfites that cause headaches, not the wine!

Allergy to sulphites in wine

In people who are particularly sensitive to allergies, sulphites can cause problems.

How to understand if there are sulphites in wine

To understand if there are sulfites in wine, simply rotate the wine in the glass. If the scent is clean and elegant, the wine is good, if it has an acrid and pungent scent, the wine contains an excessive amount of sulphites. The smell is typical of sulfur compounds linked to sulphites.

The scents of wine

The level of sulphites in our wines allows you to appreciate the aromas of the wine ranging from the fruity scent of Gavi to the scent of white pepper and blackcurrant of Pelvaro, to the aroma of black cherry of Larino up to the spices and licorice of Valino. All our wines are vinified in stainless steel without the use of wood.

Wine and wood

Wooden containers have replaced clay due to their practicality in transport by land or sea. Today we use barriques, oak barrels. For the bending of the staves, a fire is lit inside which enhances the scent of the wood as when the fireplace is lit in the house. The scent of the wood covers the natural scent of the vine.

If with this article we have well explained you what sulphites are and what they are used for in wine, fill out the form below to schedule a tasting in the cellar or one of our experiences.