The Truth About Sulphites in Wine - Myths vs. Facts
Sulphites in wine are widely misunderstood. They are natural, they are safe for the vast majority of people, and the amounts in wine are far lower than you might think. Here is the full picture.
What Sulphites Actually Are
Sulphites are sulphur-based compounds that occur naturally in wine as a by-product of fermentation — all wine contains some level of sulphites, including those labelled "no added sulphites." Winemakers also add small amounts of sulphur dioxide during production to prevent oxidation and inhibit bacterial growth, keeping the wine fresh and stable for longer. Without any sulphites, wine would deteriorate quickly and lose its character before it reached your glass.
How Much Is Actually in Wine
The amounts in wine are regulated and, in the scheme of things, quite modest. Red wines typically contain between 50 and 150 parts per million (ppm). White wines and sweet wines can contain higher levels — up to around 350 ppm — because they need more protection against oxidation. To put these numbers in context: raisins, dried apricots, and other dried fruits can contain between 500 and 2,000 ppm of sulphites. Many processed foods — canned soups, packaged baked goods, jams — contain similar levels to wine or higher. Condiments like vinegar, pickles, and certain sauces also contribute sulphites to the diet, often at concentrations comparable to wine.
Who Is Actually Sensitive
Genuine sulphite sensitivity is real but relatively rare, affecting around 1% of the population — most commonly people with asthma. Symptoms can include respiratory issues, skin reactions, or in rare cases more serious responses. For this group, avoiding wines with added sulphites or choosing certified low-sulphite wines is a sensible precaution.
However, the headaches that many wine drinkers attribute to sulphites are more likely caused by other factors: alcohol content, histamines (found in red wine), tannins, or simply dehydration. A glass of water for every glass of wine remains the most reliable preventative measure, regardless of whether the wine is conventional or not.
If You Prefer Less
Organic wines are produced with stricter limits on added sulphites, and some natural wines are made with no additions at all. If you find yourself drawn to lower-sulphite options, our organic wine selection is an excellent starting point — not just for the sulphite question, but for the quality and character of the wines themselves.
Mixed Case — Organic
Certified organic wines made with minimal intervention and lower sulphite levels. A great way to explore wines that are kinder to the land — and often to those with sensitivities to wine additives.
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2 comments
Hi Jane, Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences with us! It’s great to hear that you’ve found wine to be a comforting companion during a challenging time, though I completely understand your concerns. When it comes to GERD, asthma, and choosing the right wine, it’s helpful to consider a few things:
For a sweeter red wine, look for varieties like Zinfandel, Lambrusco, or Garnacha. These tend to be fruit-forward and less tannic, which might be gentler on your stomach compared to drier, more tannic reds. In terms of sulphites, organic wines or those labeled with “low sulphite” or “sulphite-free” may be a good option as they can sometimes be gentler for people with sensitivities.
That said, everyone reacts a little differently, and you may want to try a few different styles and see how they feel. It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor if you have specific health concerns. Remember, it’s about finding balance and enjoyment, so don’t hesitate to experiment and see what works best for you!
If you ever need suggestions or want to explore new wines, feel free to reach out! We’re here to help you find something that might be the perfect match.
I have only recently started drinking a glass of wine at night and there’s so many too choose from I get confused about sulphites and sweet or dry I’m keener on the red sweet but I get gerd and I have asthma so I wish I knew which was better for me. I know you will say no alcohol is best but I am going through a challenging life experience and I can’t seem to get rid of anxiety and stress especially at bedtime I have found a glass of wine to be helpful for these things. I would like to try sweeter wine and maybe not too dry. Any help with this is greatly appreciated