Uncorking the Secrets: How are alcohol-free wines made?
We recently posted an article about How are non-alcoholic drinks made? and yes, some of the methods are here again.
However, wine has such a long history (first traces 6000 BC) and is such a complex product that we wanted to give it an extra space to unfold. Just like a bouquet.
While other drinks such as non-alcoholic spirits are more flexible in their ingredients, alcohol-free wine is limited to one raw ingredient: wine. Thus, alcohol-free wine is always dealcoholized wine.
So let’s have a deeper look into the world of non-alcoholic wines
Overview
Introduction
3 Methods
Vacuum Distillation
Reverse Osmosis
Spinning Cone Columns
More knowledge about alcohol-free wines
Summary
1. Introduction
The world of wine has undergone a fascinating transformation in recent years, with an increasing number of consumers seeking alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages.
One such trend gaining popularity is alcohol-free wine, a sophisticated and satisfying option for those who want to savor the flavors without the alcohol content.
One important fact upfront: alcohol-free wine is made of wine. Meaning that the harvested grapes were pressed, fermented and vinified as wine with alcohol. The final step is then to dealcoholize it.
This ensures that the alcohol-free version has the texture, taste and characteristics of a wine with alcohol. It then takes another step to remove the alcohol.
In this article, we'll delve into the fascinating process of crafting alcohol-free wine, exploring three key methods used to dealcoholize it.
Further we compiled some knowledge based on our experiences for you.
2. Three methods to make alcohol-free wine
a. Vacuum Distillation
Vacuum distillation is a widely employed method in the production of alcohol-free wine. This process involves the use of low pressure to reduce the boiling point of alcohol, allowing it to be separated from the wine at a lower temperature (around 30 °C).
The wine is heated under a vacuum, and as the alcohol evaporates, it is collected and condensed back into liquid form.
Benefits
Preserves the delicate aromas and flavors of the wine.
Effective in removing alcohol while minimizing damage to the overall composition.
Disadvantages
Some critics argue that vacuum distillation may alter the structure of the wine, impacting its taste and mouthfeel.
The equipment required for vacuum distillation can be costly, potentially affecting the affordability of the final product.
b. Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis is a modern and innovative technique used in the creation of alcohol-free wines.
This method utilizes a fine-pored membrane. When the wine passes under pressure the alcohol and water are separated from the desirable components.
After removing the alcohol, the water is reincorporated back into the remaining components. This creates the alcohol-free wine.
Benefits
Precise control over the alcohol removal process, allowing for customization of alcohol levels.
Efficient in preserving the original flavors and characteristics of the wine.
Disadvantages
Some argue that reverse osmosis may strip the wine of certain volatile compounds, potentially affecting its complexity.
The initial investment in the necessary equipment can be high, influencing the overall cost of production.
c. Spinning Cone Columns
Spinning cone columns represent a cutting-edge method in alcohol-free wine production.
This technique involves spinning cones at high speeds, creating a thin film on their surfaces. As the wine flows over these cones, the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind a de-alcoholized beverage.
Benefits
Minimal impact on the sensory profile of the wine, retaining its original qualities.
Efficient and continuous process, making it suitable for large-scale production.
Disadvantages
The specialized equipment required may pose a barrier for smaller wineries.
Critics suggest that the spinning cone column process might remove some volatile compounds, potentially affecting the wine's aromatic complexity.
3. More knowledge about alcohol-free wines
Taste: Alcohol is an important part of a wine. Thus, removing it will always create a product which is slightly different to a wine with alcohol.
However, demand is steadily growing rising, driven by health-conscious consumers, designated drivers, and those who simply prefer to avoid alcohol.
This growing market has spurred innovation and improvements in the production of high-quality alcohol-free options.
Alcohol-free sparkling wine: If you haven't developed a liking for alcohol-free wines despite their positive effects, consider trying non-alcoholic sparkling wines.
The bubbles are a key characteristic in traditional sparkling wines; as they are also part of non-alcoholic wines, the step from with to with out is not that big.
How to choose? In case you are in front of a shelf with several alcohol-free wines and no option to taste, have a look at the sugar levels. The lower the better.
Many of them have around 4g of sugar. Our Nett Wines have a level of 2g and we think they are perfectly balanced, with a strong bouquet and texture.
Costs: You may intuitively think without alcohol should be cheaper. However, remember that removing the alcohol takes another step leading to higher costs.
Therefore, very cheap alcohol-free wines will probably also taste very cheap. A good indication for alcohol-free wines is a price over €10.
4. Summary
Crafting alcohol-free wine is a meticulous process that involves advanced technology and a deep understanding of oenology.
Each method has its benefits and drawbacks, but collectively they contribute to the creation of a diverse range of alcohol-free wines catering to various preferences.
As consumers continue to seek healthier alternatives without compromising on taste, the alcohol-free wine industry is likely to witness further advancements and innovations.
Whether you are a wine enthusiast exploring new horizons or someone looking for a beverage that aligns with a mindful lifestyle, alcohol-free wines offer an exciting and evolving landscape to explore.
Cheers to the future of wine, where the glass is always full of flavor, with or without the alcohol