Navigating Healthier Wine Choices: A Guide to Better For You Wine Options
Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions are entirely my own.
What are Better For You Wines? This category of wines is gaining traction as consumers become increasingly health conscious. The demand for wines with lower sugar, low carb, and low calorie content is on the rise. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the world of better for you wines, including low-sugar, low-carb, and low-calorie options, as well as organic, biodynamic, and sustainable choices.
Better For You Wines – Low Sugar
Low sugar wines with lower sugar and calorie content appeal to those watching their sugar intake, including individuals with diabetes or those following low-sugar diets. These wines are made by fermenting grapes to dryness, resulting in minimal residual sugar. They often exhibit crisp acidity and vibrant fruit flavors, making them refreshing and food-friendly options. Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand, is known for its zesty citrus flavors and bone-dry finish, making it a popular choice for those seeking low-sugar wines.
Better For You Wines-Low Carb
Low-carb wines are favored by individuals following low-carbohydrate diets, such as the ketogenic (keto) diet. These wines typically have lower residual sugar levels, which translates to fewer carbohydrates per serving. While all wines contain some carbohydrates, opting for drier styles like can help reduce carb intake. Kendall Jackson low Carb Chardonnay from California offers a lighter-bodied, dry wine with minimal residual sugar and a lower carb count compared to richer, sweeter styles.
Better For You Wines-Low Calorie
For those mindful of their calorie intake, low-calorie wines provide a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. These wines are made with techniques that limit alcohol content and residual sugar, resulting in fewer calories per serving. Lighter grape varieties such as Riesling and Pinot Grigio are popular choices for low-calorie wines. Skinnygirl California White Blend is a low-calorie wine with around 100 calories per 5-ounce serving. It offers crisp acidity and citrus notes, perfect for sipping on warm summer days.
Sparkling wines, such as Champagne, Prosecco, and Cava, are naturally lower in sugar and calories compared to still wines. Brut styles, in particular, contain minimal residual sugar, making them suitable for those looking to reduce sugar and calorie intake. Additionally, the effervescence of sparkling wines can create a perception of sweetness without added sugar.
Example: Domaine Carneros Brut Cuvée from California is a classic example of a low-sugar, low-calorie sparkling wine, offering crisp acidity and delicate bubbles.
In Europe, several regions produce wines naturally lower in sugar and calories due to cooler climates and traditional winemaking practices. Wines from regions such as Chablis in Burgundy, France, and Mosel in Germany are renowned for their high acidity and light, refreshing styles. This makes them ideal choices for those seeking low-sugar, low-calorie options. Dr. Loosen Blue Slate Riesling from Mosel, Germany, is celebrated for its vibrant acidity and lower alcohol content, (7.5%) making it a favorite among those seeking lighter, lower-calorie wines.
While some Better For You wines may come with a higher price tag due to production methods or brand reputation, many affordable options are available. It’s essential to consider factors such as grape variety, region, and production techniques when assessing the value of these wines. Cono Sur Bicicleta Pinot Noir from Chile offers exceptional value for its quality. It offers a lighter style that appeals to those seeking lower-calorie options without breaking the bank.
Better For You wines pair well with a variety of dishes, including light salads, grilled seafood, and vegetable-based dishes. Their crisp acidity and refreshing flavors complement lighter fare and can enhance the dining experience without adding unnecessary calories or sugar. Pairing a glass of low-calorie Sauvignon Blanc with a fresh shrimp ceviche or a crisp, green salad creates a delightful and health-conscious meal.
Another consideration in the Better for You wine category for health-conscious wine drinkers is the sulfite content. While sulfites occur naturally during fermentation, some winemakers add additional sulfites as preservatives. However, sulfites can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Low-sulfite wines are made with minimal sulfite additions, catering to those with sensitivities or seeking to minimize sulfite intake.
Example: Bonterra Organic Vineyards produces a range of low-sulfite wines, including their Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. They are made with organic grapes and minimal sulfite additions. For more on this you and sustainable vineyard farming see my article here.
Organic and biodynamic winemaking practices prioritize sustainability and environmental stewardship. Organic wines are made from grapes grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. Biodynamic wines take it a step further, incorporating holistic farming principles and lunar cycles into vineyard management. These wines appeal to eco-conscious consumers and those seeking wines made with minimal chemical intervention. Frey Vineyards in California is one of the pioneers of organic and biodynamic winemaking in the United States. Their range of organic wines, including their Biodynamic Chardonnay and field blend, reflects their commitment to sustainable practices.
Along with Better for You wines, we are now seeing a focus on better for the environment wines. This isn’t just seen in the vineyard but also in the packaging and delivery of wine. BOXT wine are glamorizing the traditional bag in box and packaging it in a stylish format. The wines come in various different styles and can be shipped direct to consumers.
In addition to considering the production methods of wine, the packaging and transportation also play a role in sustainability and environmental impact. Wines packaged in lightweight glass bottles or alternative packaging such as Tetra Paks or cans can reduce carbon emissions associated with transportation and recycling. Additionally, purchasing locally produced wines can further minimize the carbon footprint. BOXT Wine Club offers a range of varietals in eco-friendly, recyclable boxes, reducing packaging waste and carbon emissions associated with transportation. Their innovative packaging preserves the wine’s quality while minimizing environmental impact.
Non Alcoholic
For many wine lovers, non alcoholic or low alcoholic wines often seem like a let down. Recently many great options have hit the market that really do offer a great option or substitution for some of your favourites. Be it for health reasons or otherwise, Gruvi offers a great alternative to your traditional non-alcoholic beverages (Wine, Sangria, Beer etc).
As consumers become more mindful of their health and environmental impact, the demand for Better For Your wines continues to grow. By exploring such options as low-sugar, low-carb, low-calorie, low sulphite, organic and biodynamic wines, individuals can make choices that align with their dietary preferences, sustainability values and overall well being. With a diverse selection of wines available from around the world, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while maintaining a balanced and conscientious approach to wine consumption. Cheers to healthier choices and a healthier planet.
