Organic Wine: What It Really Is and Why More and More Consumers Are Choosing It

In recent years, organic wine has captured the attention of industry professionals, buyers, and enthusiasts around the world. But what exactly does “organic wine” mean? And why is it more than just a trend — a conscious choice that combines quality, sustainability, and territorial identity?

What Is Organic Wine, in Simple Terms?

Organic wine is produced using farming and winemaking practices that respect the environment, protect the consumer’s health, and preserve the authenticity of the product.

In practice, this means avoiding synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers in the vineyard, and using low-impact vinification techniques that minimize the use of additives and sulfites.

It’s a method that works with nature rather than trying to control it, aiming to express the true identity of the land.

A Transparent System of Rules, from Vineyard to Bottle

Organic wine production is governed by strict European regulations covering the entire production cycle, from vine growing to winemaking. The main reference is EU Regulation No. 2018/848, which sets clear criteria for obtaining organic certification.

To be classified as organic, a winery must undergo a conversion process of at least three years, during which conventional practices are progressively replaced by methods that comply with organic standards. Only after this period — and following thorough inspections by accredited certification bodies recognized by the MASAF (Italian Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forests) — can the winery be officially certified.

Authenticity is guaranteed by the EU organic logo — the familiar green leaf — displayed on the label, alongside the code of the certification body.

This system is designed to ensure maximum transparency and protection for the consumer.

Strict Standards in the Vineyard

European regulations for organic viticulture impose stringent standards from the very beginning of the production process. The goal is to safeguard the health of the soil, plants, and surrounding environment by minimizing the impact of agricultural activity. Key practices include:

• Prohibition of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers;

• Exclusive use of natural or approved products (e.g., copper and sulfur) within regulated limits;

• Application of sustainable agronomic techniques such as green manuring, mulching, crop rotation, or spontaneous cover cropping, which improve soil vitality and reduce erosion;

• Promotion of biodiversity by planting hedgerows, trees, and flowers to support beneficial insects and natural vineyard balance.

  
  

These practices help create a healthy ecosystem that is more resistant to disease and climate change, while enhancing the territorial identity of the wine.

Strict Rules in the Cellar, Too

Rules don’t stop at the vineyard. In the winery, regulations also limit the use of additives and invasive technologies. Key requirements include:

• Use of indigenous yeasts is encouraged, while selected yeasts are allowed but regulated;

• Sulfites are permitted, but at significantly lower levels than in conventional wines;

• Invasive physical treatments such as reverse osmosis, dealcoholization, and cold concentration are banned;

• Only natural and approved fining agents are allowed, such as bentonite, plant proteins, or casein.

  
  

These are just a few examples of the many requirements organic wines must meet. The goal is to ensure wines are genuine expressions of their terroir, produced according to sustainable, healthy, and consumer-respectful principles — without industrial shortcuts.

The Benefits of Organic Wine

Choosing organic wine is often driven by greater environmental awareness — but it also brings real benefits to the consumer:

• It’s a genuine product, free from chemical residues and made through a more natural and transparent process;

• It often contains higher levels of resveratrol, a powerful natural antioxidant that supports cardiovascular health;

• It represents quality and winemaking commitment, meeting rigorous standards that are internationally recognized.

  
  

A wine that speaks to today’s consumers: informed, mindful, and demanding.

A Growing Trend in the HoReCa Channel and Export Markets

It’s no surprise that organic wines are increasingly featured on wine lists, at international tastings, and among consumer preferences both in Italy and abroad. Demand for sustainable, healthy, and transparent products continues to grow — especially among younger generations and in markets with a strong focus on sustainability.

According to Nomisma Wine Monitor data, Italy is among the European leaders in organic viticulture, with over 18,000 certified wineries and organic vineyards accounting for more than 20% of the national total.

The HoReCa channel and export markets recognize organic wine as a product that combines quality, authenticity, and added value, meeting the expectations of an increasingly sophisticated audience.

Beyond the Trend: An Ethical, Concrete, and Quality-Driven Choice

Organic wine isn’t just a fad or a green label — it’s the result of a responsible approach that blends agricultural tradition, innovation, and ethical vision. It’s a symbol of respect: for the land, for those who cultivate it, and for those who enjoy it.

We believe in the value of organic. That’s why we select organic and natural wines that tell the story of their land, the people behind them, and the bold choices they make. If you’d like to explore our selection or learn more, get in touch — we’d be delighted to guide you on a journey of quality, sustainability, and passion.