Anyone who has ever looked at a wine label will surely have noticed the words “contains sulfites.” But what exactly are sulfites, and why are they used in wine? Sulfites are widely used in the food and beverage industry, including in wines, to protect the product and preserve its characteristics over time. Sulfites act to maintain color, prevent oxidation and prevent mold growth.
There are two types of sulfites: natural and added sulfites. Natural sulfites are formed during fermentation, when yeasts convert the sugar in the must into alcohol, spontaneously generating sulfites. Added sulfites, on the other hand, are incorporated at different stages of processing in the winery to stabilize the wine.
The use of sulfites is regulated by the European Union, but it must be said that organic wines are distinguished by a more limited use of sulfites. Some go so far as to be “without added sulfites,” presenting only the natural ones generated by fermentation. And then there are “natural wines,” for which no added sulfites are used, respecting the purity of the product.
Making a wine without added sulfites is a real challenge. Yet, we at Perlage winery have managed to do something extraordinary. In 2008 we created the world’s first Prosecco DOCG without added sulfites: Animae Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG. A sparkling wine that, with its authentic and natural flavor, is a tribute to tradition, a return to the origins, and at the same time a revolution in the world of wine.
Animae is not just a wine, it is an experience that tells of care for nature, love for authentic wine and respect for those who drink it. It is a promise of genuineness, an invitation to rediscover the pleasure of a wine that, in its purity, tells the story of territory and craftsmanship.
From there on, our research did not stop: 2016 saw the birth of Animae Cabernet Veneto IGT, the first red wine without added sulfites.
For us, the Animae range represents a journey toward authenticity, respect for the environment and a passion for enology that tastes of nature. A great achievement made of research and innovation. Each bottle is a hymn to purity and an expression of what we can achieve when we combine tradition, innovation and research. An experience that makes us proud and that, we are sure, will win over those who seek authentic wine.
