One of those wine things everyone talks about… but no one really explains. Here's the simple version.
What even is a sulfite?
Sulfites are a preservative used in wine. They help keep the wine fresh, stable, and safe to drink over time. They also occur naturally during fermentation — so even wines with no added sulfites will still contain some level of them naturally.
Sulfites aren't something your body needs, and some people do feel better when they drink wines with fewer added sulfites. Like most additives, it's completely understandable to want to be a little more mindful of them. So instead of stressing over it — the better approach is just paying attention to how you feel. If certain wines leave you feeling off, it's worth trying options labeled "low sulfites" or "no added sulfites" and seeing if that makes a difference.
All wine has some sulfites naturally — even the "clean" ones.
"No added sulfites" does not mean zero sulfites.
Sweeter wines usually have more — sugar needs more preservation.
Giving it to you straight
- Natural wines (look for "no added sulfites")
- Organic wines (especially EU-certified)
- Biodynamic wines
- Dry Farm Wines
- Avaline Wine
- Boxed wines
- Bulk / mass-produced wines
- Sweet wines (Moscato, sweet Riesling)
- Dessert wines (Port, Ice Wine)
- Large commercial brands
Here's the truth — there's no right answer. If you're a farm fresh eggs, no seed oils, make your own granola girl (like myself) — you want low sulfite wines. If you don't mind, go with the flavors you like (also like myself). Both are valid. You know your body best.
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