Kicking back with a glass of wine (especially in quarantine) is one of our favourite ways to unwind but do we really know what’s actually in it?
Yes, we know it’s the adult version of grape juice, but did you know that some contain animal-derived ingredients that we never would’ve expected like fish oil and gelatine?
When wine is being made, it’s filtered through fining agents to remove things like protein, yeast, cloudiness, ‘off’ flavours and colourings and other organic particles.
According to animal rights organisation PETA, some of these fining agents include blood and bone marrow, casein (milk protein), chitin (fibre from crustacean shells), egg albumen (derived from egg whites), fish oil, gelatin (protein from boiling animal parts), and isinglass (gelatine from fish bladder membranes). Shocking, right?
WATCH: Rihanna, a hero for the people, fell into the pool while trying to save her wine. Post continues after video…
But for anyone who’s dairy-intolerant, vegan or felt their skin crawl when they realised they were drinking fish bladder gelatine, we have good news.
There are also plenty of wines that use plant-based fining agents including carbon, bentonite clay and limestone just to name a few. And to make things even better, these wines aren’t super expensive and hard to buy. In fact you can just pop into your local BWS and see for yourself.
Check out our favourite vegan wines below.
Yalumba Y Series Pinot Grigio
At just $14 a bottle, we’re here for this Pinot Grigio.
(Image: Supplied)At just $14 a bottle, this Pinot Grigio is a winner as summer approaches.
Full of sass and spice, Yalumba Y Series is a great addition for your next dinner party and matches with all sorts of food styles.
Wild Lands Red Field Blend
A red blend for any occasion.
(Image: Supplied)Hailing from South Australia, this $15 red blend lives up to its name.
Sourced from multiple varieties which are hand selected and co-fermented, this vegan-friendly wine is a top pick to wash down a delicious homemade meal with.
The Vegan Wine Project Shiraz
Red wine fans, this one is for you.
(Image: Supplied)This $16 vegan tipple is that red wine for people who aren’t massive red wine drinkers.
According to the wine experts, it blends flavours of wild berries and plum with a touch of chocolate and exotic spices and that sounds good enough for us!
The Indigo Organic Grape Growers Collective Cabernet Sauvignon
Just because something’s organic doesn’t mean it’s super expensive.
(Image: Supplied)For those of you who like something a little more full-bodied, the Indigo Organic Growers Cabernet Sauvignon is the aromatic and deep red wine you need to get your hands on.
If you’re cooking up a steak dinner anytime soon, this is the perfect partner and at $20 a bottle, you won’t be breaking the bank either.
Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial Champagne NV
Feeling fancy? Indulge in some champers!
(Image: Supplied)This one is the most expensive at $70 but if you have a big birthday or special occasion coming up, pop a bottle!
As one of the world’s most loved champagnes, this Moet Chandon Brut Imperial is perfect for party season whatever the weather.
