Preservatives in wine
Huon Hooke in Free for all Become a member to view this article
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The anti-oxidant effect is especially relevant in white wines. Unsplash
Among the most common inquiries I receive from readers concerns preservatives in wine, in other words, sulphur dioxide (SO2). Specifically, how to find wines that don’t have SO2 added to them.
They are not common, because SO2 is a sterilant and anti-oxidant: it preserves wine from oxidising and it kills or stuns unwanted microbes which could create unpleasant faults in wine.
The most common sensitivities to sulphites are sneezing, coughing, shortness of breath, headache, sinus problems and rashes.The anti-oxidant effect is especially relevant in white wines. Just as an apple quickly turns brown when cut and exposed to the air, so white grape juice and white wine will brown and the freshness and fruity appeal of the aroma and flavour will be dulled.
Red wine is another matter: the tannins and colour pigments of red wine help protect it against the ravages of the oxygen in the atmosphere. So it’s easier to produce a good red wine without the help of SO2.
There are several readily available products that can be added to a glass of wine to nullify the SO2, and render it agreeable to those who suffer from sulphur sensitivity. SO2GO, and Purewine Drops are the two most visible. They’re inexpensive and are sold in many wine shops. You either squeeze some drops into your glass or spray the fluid onto it.
The active ingredient is hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which simply rearranges the molecules so that SO2 is deactivated. Sulphites are converted to sulphates, which are harmless.
The most common sensitivities to sulphites are sneezing, coughing, shortness of breath, headache, sinus problems and rashes. Purewine claim they have feedback from a ‘huge’ number of wine drinkers that their product reduces hangover symptoms. I’m not sure there is any scientific evidence for that, though.
Several wine companies make wine with no added sulphur dioxide. This is generally how they are described—because ‘sulphur-free’ can’t be guaranteed, as a small amount of sulphur dioxide can be produced by yeasts during normal fermentation.
Here are three quality red wines that have come my way recently.
Battle of Bosworth Puritan Shiraz 2024
McLaren Vale. I’ve tasted some aged vintages of this wine, and they put paid to the notion that wines made without sulphur won’t keep.
Mr Brightside GenX Preservative Free Shiraz 2025
From Ben Riggs of Mr Riggs Wines, McLaren Vale.
Sherrah Preservative Free Grenache Nouveau 2023
Winemaker Alex Sherrah also works in McLaren Vale.