Hy-Vee Recipes and Ideas

Curious about the difference between natural wine, organic wine, and conventional wine? We did some asking around in the Wine & Spirits department…

Here’s what you need to know: If you see “made with organic grapes,” that means the winemaker used grapes that are certified organic by the USDA. Certified organic grapes are grown with no genetic engineering and with no synthetic fertilizers. They are also grown in a way that protects the environment and soil. However, this label does not mean that sulfites can’t be added during the winemaking process. That’s where 100% organic wine comes in.

If a wine is labeled “100% organic,” that means it’s not only made with organically-grown grapes, it’s made without added sulfites, which many conventional winemakers use to stop fermentation and preserve flavor. Organic wine producers must also adhere to strict standards that outline prohibited ingredients.

“Natural” wine is another term you may hear, as it’s growing in popularity across the U.S. However, the term “natural,” when applied to wine, is not regulated or standardized. That said, many natural winemakers adhere to a somewhat organic process, with an unofficial definition that includes: no chemicals, no cleansers, and no agents that contribute to refining the clarity and texture. That’s why many natural wines are fizzy and appear unfiltered and cloudy.

Now that you know the difference, here are few of our favorite recommendations available at Hy-Vee.