As fans of fine wine, you’ve likely heard that wine contains sulfites. You’ve probably also heard sulfites and sulfates used interchangeably. From this day forward, help me spread the word that they are nothing alike. Let’s start by defining each of these sulphur derivatives: Sulfates are salts of sulfuric acid, and you probably encounter them daily, but not in wine. Sodium lauryl sulfate removes grease by binding oil to water and is commonly used in dish soap and other detergents. Sulfites, on the other hand, are naturally occurring compounds found in wine (and beer.) The word refers to a group of substances, including sulphur dioxide and sodium or potassium metabisulphite. Even though sulfites are naturally occurring, winemakers also add sulfur dioxide, i.e. sulfites, during the winemaking process to protect the wine against spoilage.
While sulfites sometimes get a bad rap, they play a crucial role in the winemaking process, particularly for wines meant to be aged, like Laurel Glen Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Let’s delve into why sulfites are necessary and how they align with our commitment to low intervention winemaking.
Why Are Sulfites Necessary?
Preservation and Stability: Sulfites are essential for preserving the wine’s freshness and preventing spoilage. They act as antimicrobial agents, effectively inhibiting the growth of spoilage microorganisms such as bacteria and wild yeast cells, which can cause off-flavors and even spoil the wine. This is particularly important for wines intended to improve with bottle aging, like our Estate Cabernet Sauvignon.
Oxidation Prevention: Sulfites protect wine from oxidation, a chemical reaction that takes place when a substance comes into contact with oxygen. For example, rust and the brown color on a cut apple are examples of oxidation. Oxidation can negatively impact a wine’s flavor, color, and aroma. Sulfites bind with oxygen molecules, preventing them from reacting with the wine components. By controlling oxidation, sulfites help maintain the wine’s vibrant, complex profile, ensuring that every bottle you open is as the winemaker intended.
Sulfites and Minimal Intervention Winemaking
We are deeply committed to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Additionally, it is important to note that sulfites are allowed in organic winemaking within regulated limits. Although we are passionately committed to organic farming and are proud members of CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers,) we have never pursued a certification for organic winemaking. We strongly believe the most important ingredient for great wine is great fruit. As any cook will tell you, the quality of your dish will depend on the quality of your raw ingredients. Farming organically allows us to start with top quality grapes. Once we pick those grapes, we do very little to them on their journey to become wine.
Our approach to sulfites is all about minimal intervention. We use the smallest amount necessary to protect the wine. By carefully managing sulfite levels, we can ensure the quality and longevity of our wines while also honoring the exceptional fruit from our Estate vineyard.
Natural Occurrence
Sulfites are naturally present in all wines, even those without added sulfites, because grapes and fermentation naturally produce small amounts of sulphur dioxide. Consuming sulfites is generally harmless. That said, a small number of people—particularly asthmatics—are allergic to sulfites, which is why you see the warning on wine labels that wine contains sulfites. Unfortunately, that label also creates confusion because people who experience headaches or flushing after drinking wine often wrongly blame sulfites for these issues.
The Bottom Line
Sulfites are an indispensable part of winemaking, especially for age-worthy wines like our Cabernet Sauvignon. They safeguard the wine’s quality, flavor, and longevity, allowing us to deliver the exceptional experience you have come to expect from Laurel Glen Vineyard.
We hope this sheds light on the importance of sulfites in the winemaking process.
If you need further information or have any questions, feel free to reach out. We hope these words will enhance your enjoyment of your next glass of beautifully aged Laurel Glen Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon!