Enjoyment without intoxication: non-alcoholic and reduced-alcohol wines

A responsible trend conquers the wine world

In today's world, where health, well-being and conscious consumption are playing an ever greater role, alcohol-free and reduced-alcohol wines are becoming increasingly popular. Long gone are the days when alcohol-free alternatives were seen as nothing more than bland substitutes. More and more wine lovers are recognizing the value of these innovative options that allow enjoyment without intoxication. In this blog post, we delve into the exciting world of non-alcoholic and reduced-alcohol wines and take a look at their origins, diversity and place in our society.

The emergence and development of dealcoholized wines

Non-alcoholic Wines have a long history dating back to ancient Greece. Even then, grapes were pressed to produce an alcohol-free grape juice known as "must". However, it is only in recent decades that the technology of dealcoholization has developed to such an extent that wines with an authentic taste and aroma can be produced without the alcohol content.

Common methods for producing dealcoholized wine: 

• Vacuum distillation: this method takes advantage of the lower boiling point of alcohol compared to water. The wine is evaporated in a vacuum, extracting the alcohol while retaining most of the aromas and flavors. The vaporized alcohol is then condensed and separated. 

• Reverse osmosis: In this method, the wine is pumped through a membrane that can separate molecules of different sizes. Alcohol and water are separated and the alcohol is removed. The "de-alcoholized" wine is then remixed with some of the extracted aroma to restore the taste. 

• Short-term fermentation: In this method, the fermentation process, in which sugar is fermented into alcohol and carbon dioxide, is stopped before the alcohol content becomes too high. This requires precise control of the fermentation and can help to produce wines with a lower alcohol content. 

• Membrane filtration: Here the wine is pumped through special membranes that can trap and retain alcohol molecules while allowing the aromas and other components to pass through. 

• Carbon filtration: Activated carbon or other adsorbents can be used to remove the alcohol from the wine. The charcoal binds the alcohol, and the dealcoholized wine is then separated from the treated charcoal.

Can any wine be dealcoholized?

In terms of theory and technique, yes, as the production methods can be applied to any wine. The range therefore also includes the familiar categorization into red wine, white wine, Rosé wine and sparkling wine.

However, there are major sensory differences between individual wines. Aromatic varieties with low acidity tend to be more suitable.

The origin and development of low-alcohol wines

With reduced-alcohol wines on the other hand, the natural fermentation process is stopped at an early stage in order to reduce the alcohol content while retaining the wine's characteristic aromas and nuances. This makes it possible to offer wines with a lower alcohol content without compromising the taste. Another option for reducing the alcohol content is cuvee blending. Here, traditional wine and previously dealcoholized wine are "blended". The result is approx. 6% vol. alcohol.

The variety of non-alcoholic and alcohol-reduced wines

The world of non-alcoholic and reduced alcohol wines is now extremely diverse. It includes wines made from different grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling and more. These wines offer a wide range of flavors, from fruity and floral to spicy and powerful. Whether you prefer a dry white wine, a fresh rosé or a full-bodied red wine, there is guaranteed to be a non-alcoholic or low-alcohol option to appeal to your palate.

Some people may be skeptical and think that reduced alcohol or dealcoholized wine cannot keep up in terms of taste. However, wine producers have made considerable progress in recent years to ensure that these wines retain the taste and aroma of conventional wine. There is a wide range of varieties and styles to choose from, from sparkling white wines to full-bodied reds. These wines offer a pleasant alternative without compromising on enjoyment.

Enjoyment without remorse: the benefits of non-alcoholic and low-alcohol wines

The obvious advantage of non-alcoholic and low-alcohol wines is that they offer a healthier alternative that still retains the full flavor and aroma of the wine. They are ideal for people who need or want to avoid alcohol for health reasons, such as pregnant women, drivers or people taking medication that restricts alcohol consumption.

Conclusion: An enriching option in the world of wine

Non-alcoholic and alcohol-reduced Wines have long since shed the status of mere alternatives. They stand for more conscious and responsible consumption and offer a variety that appeals to every palate. The wine industry has responded to the increasing demand and today presents us with wines that harmonize taste, health and enjoyment.

If you are looking for a new, exciting experience, simply a delicious drink or new opportunities for culinary discovery through the art of food pairing, you should definitely explore the world of non-alcoholic and reduced-alcohol wines.

Raise your glass and toast to the modern variety of wine enjoyment - without intoxication, but with all the more pleasure!