What is the purpose of sulfites in wine?

It is not insignificant that sulfites are found in wine. Naturally occurring sulfites, added sulfites, benefits and risks—we tell you everything!

What are sulfites?

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a chemical compound in the sulfite family that can be found in many foods and beverages. Sulfites are widely used in the food industry (dried fruits, deli meats, condiments, cereals, etc.) and can be used in winemaking. Sulfites are also used in the manufacture of certain food packaging materials such as cellophane.

Why are sulfites added to wine?

Why does wine contain sulfites?

Sulfites can be found in wine even when the label says "no added sulfites." This is because during alcoholic fermentation, the yeast in grapes always produces small amounts of sulfur. Therefore, "wines with no added sulfites" do contain sulfites, but these are naturally produced during fermentation.

Why add sulfites to wine?

Although the presence of sulfites in wine is the result of a natural process, it is also possible to add sulfites deliberately during production. They are used for their antioxidant and antiseptic properties:

•        sulfur (SO2) is used to protect must and wine from oxidation by consuming the free oxygen present,
•        sulfur disrupts the functioning of bacteria (preventing their reproduction and causing their death).

They extend the shelf life of wine and protect it from oxidation. Sulfites also prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria inside the wine bottle. This helps to ensure that the wine tastes good.

The addition of sulfites is highly regulated. Numerous standards must be met, and a maximum dose depending on the type of wine must not be exceeded. It should be noted that wines produced using organic farming methods also contain added sulfites.

Are there any risks associated with the presence of sulfites in wine?

Sulfites can cause headaches or allergic reactions in some people who are sensitive to them. Sulfites have also been classified as allergens. The words "contains sulfites" must therefore be included on wine labels.

Total sulfur dioxide levels cannot exceed the following limits in Europe (for conventional agriculture):

•        150 mg/liter of sulfur for red wines
•        150 mg/liter of SO2 for sparkling wines
•        200 mg/liter for white and rosé wines with a residual sugar content of less than 5g/liter.

For wines with a sugar content of more than 5g, SO2 is limited to 250mg/liter. It can go up to 400mg/liter for Late Harvests and Noble Grain Selections.

For organic wines (organic label), the maximum sulfur levels are lower than:

•        100 mg/liter for red wine and sparkling wine,
•        120 mg/liter for rosé and white wines.

Sulfites and Bestheim wines

The issue of sulfites in wine is a national health concern. At Bestheim, the health and well-being of our customers are our top priority. That is why we try to limit the use of sulfites to the strict minimum in the winemaking process. For example, our 2018 Riesling Grand Cru Schlossberg contains only 74 mg/L of S02, less than half the permitted standard. Public health and respect for the environment are our top priorities.

Discover our commitments for the future in our "Future Generations"Charter: preserving biodiversity (in our vineyards), preventing pollution (developing practices authorized in organic farming), using resources sustainably, implementing solutions to replace insecticides, pesticides, and other phytosanitary products, and more