Wine is often seen as a pure and traditional product, crafted from grapes and little else. But what if we told you that many mass-produced wines are far from this natural ideal? The truth is, industrial wine production frequently relies on a surprising number of additives to achieve consistency, enhance flavor, and ensure stability. These additives are rarely advertised, yet they significantly shape what ends up in your glass.
After analyzing the use of sulphites in wine, I want to expand the knowledge on other 'magic ingredients' that are commonly used in 'industrial winemaking'.
What Goes Into Industrial Wine?
To create a predictable, market-friendly product, many large-scale wineries turn to a variety of ingredients, including:
• Glucose – Added to boost alcohol content and sweetness. • Tannin Powder – Used to enhance structure and provide additional bitterness or dryness. • Sulphites – Added as preservatives to extend shelf life and prevent spoilage. • Salt – Sometimes used to balance flavors. • Tartaric Acid – Adjusts acidity levels to create a more vibrant taste. • Acacia Gum – Added for mouthfeel and improved texture. • Pig's or Fish Glue (Isinglass) – Used for fining (clarifying) the wine. • Albumen – An egg white protein used to smooth tannins in red wines.
How Many Ingredients Are Allowed in American Wines?
In the United States, winemakers are legally allowed to use over 70 different additives in wine production under the American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) system. Some of the most commonly used include:
• Mega Purple – A concentrated grape juice used to deepen color and sweetness. • Dimethyl Dicarbonate (DMDC) – A chemical used to sterilize wine and prevent spoilage. • Malic Acid – Adjusts acidity levels. • Oak Chips and Powder – Imparts oak flavors without barrel aging. • Copper Sulfate – Removes hydrogen sulfide odors. • Potassium Sorbate – Prevents re-fermentation in bottled wine. • Calcium Carbonate – Reduces acidity.
These ingredients are often employed to mask imperfections in large-scale wine production, where grapes may be grown with heavy use of pesticides and herbicides, and harvested before reaching their full potential. As a result, additives are required to "correct" the wine, giving it a uniform flavor that meets consumer expectations.
The Problem with Artificial Taste
The global wine industry has shaped consumer preferences by promoting this standardized flavor profile. Industrial wines are often crafted to be smooth, sweet, and fruit-forward, even if that means sacrificing authenticity and natural expression. Over time, many consumers have come to believe that this manipulated taste is what wine should be, overshadowing the complexity and character that real, naturally produced wines can offer.
Why Choose Natural Wines?
Although the term "natural wine" has been abused, we refer to it as wines with low intervention and barely no ingredients added(especially Sulphites!). Natural wines, produced by smaller winemakers, offer a return to tradition. These wines are crafted using minimal intervention, relying solely on healthy grapes and natural fermentation. Without artificial additives, natural wines express their terroir — the unique character of the vineyard, soil, and climate.
By choosing natural wines: • You avoid consuming unnecessary chemicals and artificial additives. • You support sustainable farming practices that respect the environment. • You experience wines with greater personality, authenticity, and vibrant flavors.
A great example of 'Natural wine'? The Sangiovese that I have dedicated to my beloved dogs, Bailey & Charlie, with no sulphites added and just one ingredients: GRAPES!
Join the Perbacco Wine Club for Authentic, more Natural Wines
At Perbacco Wine Club, we believe in celebrating honest winemaking, this is why I have always selected wines from passionate small-scale producers across Italy. These wines are crafted without added chemicals, ensuring each bottle tells the true story of its origins. By joining our club, you’ll gain access to exclusive wines that are better for you and for the planet.
Discover the beauty of more natural wines — authentic, pure, and full of life. Join Perbacco Wine Club today and taste the difference. Cheers to wine as it was meant to be! 🍇🍷