Over the past few years, something exciting has been happening in the world of wine – and no, it’s not just the rising trend of trying every flavour under the sun! Wine lovers are now seeking out vegan wine, and who can blame them? Whether you're a die-hard vegan, someone with dietary restrictions, or simply someone who likes to experiment with new things (who doesn’t love a bit of fun with their drinks?), vegan wines are offering a deliciously fresh twist on the classics. And here’s the best bit: fruit wines are stealing the spotlight! Think strawberry wine, blackcurrant wine, and a whole range of fruity concoctions that pack a punch with vibrant flavours and a natural, refreshing appeal.

But wait – what exactly makes these fruity delights vegan? And why should you give them a go instead of just sticking to your usual bottle of grape wine? 

What Makes Wine Vegan?

Ready for the finer details? Well, traditionally, many wines are clarified using animal-derived products, such as egg whites, fish bladders (isinglass), or gelatine. These fining agents are used to remove impurities and make the wine clearer. However, for vegan wines, the process is slightly different. Vegan wines use plant-based or mineral fining agents, such as activated charcoal, bentonite clay, or silica gel, to achieve the same effect without using any animal products. This ensures that no animals are harmed in the making of the wine.

Fruit wines, in particular, are often inherently vegan as they’re typically made from natural fruit juices without the need for animal-based fining agents - such as WTF!  But, a word to the wise - always check the label, as some producers may still use traditional fining methods.

We do this process called microfiltration, a gentle, vegan-friendly method where the wine is passed through a special filter with tiny pores, removing any unwanted particles or microorganisms without affecting the wine’s flavour or aroma. It’s like giving the wine a final polish to ensure it’s perfectly clear and ready to enjoy!

How Does a Wine Become Non-Vegan?

So, you’re probably wondering: how can a perfectly good bottle of wine turn non-vegan? Well, let’s spill the grapes on that! It all comes down to something called fining agents, which are used to give wine that glossy, clear look we all know and love.

First, we’ve got the fermentation process – the true magic of winemaking. This is where the sugar from the grapes is transformed into alcohol, thanks to a bit of help from some clever yeast. But sometimes, that magic can result in some unwanted molecules floating about in the wine, making it look a little cloudy. And no one wants cloudy wine, right? So, winemakers bring in fining agents to do the dirty work, binding with those particles to remove them and leaving the wine crystal clear and sparkling.

Here’s where it gets a bit tricky. As we’ve mentioned above, many of these fining agents are actually derived from animals – cue the gasp! Egg whites, fish bladders (yep, you read that right – isinglass), and gelatine are some of the culprits. These animal products help clear the wine, but because they’re, well, not exactly plant-based, they make the wine non-vegan.

So, if you want to keep your glass (or can…) cruelty-free, it’s worth checking whether animal-based fining agents have been used in the winemaking process. But don’t worry – there are plenty of vegan-friendly alternatives out there (we are biased, but we are definitely the best one), and with fruit wines, you're almost always on the safe side!

The Future of Production

With the rise of veganism, alongside an increased desire for organic and biodynamic wines, winemakers across the globe are increasingly adopting more natural approaches. When wines are left to develop completely naturally, they typically self-fine, reducing the need to introduce animal products into the process. For those wines that don’t naturally self-fine, there are now alternative fining agents available, including clay-based methods that align with vegan practices.

While it’s not always common for winemakers to list the fining agents used on their labels (whether they were clay, egg whites, or milk protein), it’s becoming easier to spot wines that have not had any fining agents used in the production process at all. These wines are often labelled as Unfined or Unfiltered, indicating that no fining agents were involved and the wine is therefore vegan. If you're looking for a vegan wine, these labels are a great indicator.

Why Stick to Grape Wine?

Let’s be real for a second – as much as grape wine has its charm, sometimes it can feel a bit... meh. The flavours? Well, they can sometimes be a bit predictable (yawn). But fear not, adventurous wine lovers – it’s time to shake things up! If you’re after something with a bit more pizzazz, it’s high time you explored the world of fruit wines. These bad boys, made from everything from juicy berries to zesty apples and succulent blackcurrants, bring bold, punchy flavours that’ll have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Fruit wines, like strawberry, raspberry, blackcurrant, and apple, are here to make a statement. They’re the wild side of wine – lively, vibrant, and full of character – unlike those quiet, traditional grape wines that often play it safe. So, if you’re craving something with personality, why not give fruit wine a go? You might just stumble upon your new favourite bottle (or can!) – one that’s as delicious as it is eco-friendly. Let’s face it, a little fruity fun never hurts anyone! 

Wine That’s Fruit: Your New Favourite Vegan Wine

The rise of vegan wine is more than just a passing trend – it’s part of a larger movement towards more conscious consumption. Whether you’re drawn to the rich flavours of strawberry wine, or the boldness of blackcurrant wine, there’s something for everyone. 

As veganism continues to grow and gain recognition, more wine drinkers are embracing the opportunity to enjoy fruit wines as a delicious, sustainable alternative. So, next time you're on the hunt for a vegan-friendly beverage, consider reaching for a can of fruit wine from us. It could be the exciting, fresh experience you're craving – kind to the planet, and kind to your taste buds.