Feature image: Angove Organic Vineyard.
Over the years the world has warmed to the notions of veganism and organic products, and for good reason too. Plant based and organic alternatives aren’t just good for our bodies, they’re good for the environment as well.
You may have switched to plant-based meals and skincare, but what about your wine? As a byproduct of grapes and yeast, it’s easy to assume that wine is vegan. But, this isn’t always the case.
What’s in wine that’s not vegan?
You’re not alone if you think all wine is vegan. Its main ingredient is, of course, grapes. However, while wine is fruit based, production techniques commonly used in winemaking can make it a non-vegan friendly option.
According to Tony Ingle, Chief Winemaker at Angove Family Winemakers, conventional winemaking often uses animal derivatives in their fining process.
“Freshly fermented wine can have unwanted sediments like proteins, tartrates, tannins and phenolics. The easiest way to take the bitter flavours out is through a process called fining which involves adding things like milk, casein, gelatine or isinglass (fish protein).”
At Angove, Tony uses a free-run method that takes juice that flows from freshly picked grapes during the destemming and crushing process, prior to the pressing process. According to Tony, this method requires little to no fining, and if any fining is required, pea or potato based products will be used.
The South Australian Wine Story
South Australia is home to some of the best wine regions our country has to offer. The diverse geographical landscape and climate allows our state to produce a wide range of grape varieties.
A current standout is the level of quality of Certified Organic wines which are currently being produced right here in South Australia.
Drinking Certified Organic wine means you can be confident the winemaking process adheres to strict organic protocols, overseen and guaranteed by a third-party organisation. It ensures that what you’re drinking is completely free from synthetic chemicals and non-organic inputs.
Luckily for us, we’re absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to finding a good quality vegan wine. Below are five stellar South Australian vegan drops we think are worth a try, whether you’re vegan or not! (For a cheeky added bonus, some of these options are also Certified Organic!)
Angove Organic Rose 2020
RRP: $18
Produced in Angove’s Nanya Vineyard, located in Paringa. This delicate Rose is Certified Organic and 100% Vegan! It features aromas of strawberry, blueberry and crunchy watermelon, with a hint of apple. On the palate, it is crisp with strawberry and red berry tasting notes. The Angove Organic Rose is great to have with spicy Asian food or grilled fresh seafood.
Wild Olive Chardonnay 2020
RRP: $19.99
Produced in McLaren Vale, this 100% vegan and Certified Organic Chardonnay features ripe peach and melon tasting notes. This drop is packed with ripe fruit flavours, sourced from quality McLaren Vale fruit, and features a crisp savoury finish. Pairs beautifully with polenta and grilled seafood.
Temple Bruer Pinot Noir 2020
RRP: $22
Produced from fruit grown in McLaren Vale and Eden Valley, Temple Bruer’s Organic Vegan Pinot Noir has tasting notes of bright strawberry and cherry, with savoury earthy tones. It pairs perfectly with classic French dishes with a light, creamy sauce…. magnifique!
Running with the Bulls Tempranillo 2020
RRP: $23
Produced in Barossa Valley, Running with the Bulls showcases traditional Spanish varieties. Their Tempranillo has aromas of dark chocolate, black cherry and liquorice, and tasting notes of mulberry, dark chocolate and boysenberry. Pairs well with wild mushroom, thyme and olive oil pasta, or a classic hearty burger.
Warboys Vineyard Shiraz 2018
RRP: $75
Think hints of chocolate, spice and pepper. This luxurious wine offers luscious plum and red berry notes with blackberry, spice and dark chocolate. Warboys Shiraz showcases complex layers of flavour sourced in McLaren Vale, and is also Certified Organic and vegan! The perfect pair of rich pasta and mushrooms.
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