WYNCH · Reference library

Sulphur dioxide

A substance used in wine to help protect against oxidation and unwanted microorganisms.

Explained simply

Sulphur dioxide is a small protective shield: it helps guard wine from too much oxygen and unwanted microorganisms. Fermentation can also create some even when none is added.

Sources: Natural wine without myths

In more detail

Sulphur dioxide and sulphites are used in wine as antioxidant and antimicrobial protection. Timing and amount depend on the wine and its stability; legal limits and labelling rules apply regardless of marketing style. “No added sulphur” does not necessarily mean sulphite-free.

Sources: Natural wine without myths

What to look for

Distinguish no added sulphur from analytically no sulphites. The label “contains sulphites” alone says little about the amount actually used.

Sources: Natural wine without myths

Read in the journal A barnyard or medicinal smell in natural wine can hide the fruit — guests do not have to drink it bravely. Explained in context in our article about natural wine.

Sources

  1. Natural wine without myths ·

Explore these wines