My interest in finding out more about organic wines started when I watched a vlog on people visiting some bars and restaurants in Seoul. It stuck in my mind how organic wine was popular in the capital of South Korea. I was wondering why people there choose organic wine over the standard popular ones. If they do, are we missing a market here?
Then, when I started to research more about it, I found out that Korea is a new market for wine consumption. However, natural wine seems to be the drink of the choice for the well-travelled generation of young Koreans that frequent the restaurants and bars around Seoul– particularly in the swanky Cheongdam area.
I was curious, so I asked the owner of my local off-license if they have any organic wine. I didn’t find anything there. But to my surprise, weeks later, I got an organic red wine that was worth it to buy. I particularly loved the taste of organic wine, and I would recommend it. So, let’s find out a bit more about it.
What is considered an organic wine?
To start with, the cultivation of organic wine is a special segment in which producers commit themselves to minimal intervention in the vineyard and the environment. This implies the conscious use of water and the use of natural products that replace agrochemical products.
This way, organic grape cultivation happens without the use of chemicals such as pesticides, synthetic fertilisers, and herbicides. Pest control is done through natural predators.
They are darker and denser wines – a consequence of the greater conservation of the natural characteristics of the grapes in this process.
Among the characteristics, it is worth mentioning that they are wines of darker and denser colour. This is because there is greater conservation of the natural characteristics of the grape throughout the process.
What are the benefits of drinking organic wine?
As you can imagine, organic wine has much more benefits than a standard one. So, let’s check the benefits of swapping for organic wine.
Healthier
When consumed in moderation, organic wine is associated with several health benefits, especially due to the higher consumption of antioxidants that fight free radicals.
It is wonderful for your heart and can also reduce cholesterol. It can combat obesity and diabetes too.
It is important to remember that these possible benefits can be obtained only with moderate wine consumption. It is also worth mentioning that there are still no studies done for long periods that prove the direct relationship between the consumption of red wine and its health benefits.
Sustainability
Just as in ancient times, organic wine is produced with respect to nature and the health of consumers. This, of course, requires an investment of time and money – mainly, considering the rigorous processes to obtain certification.
Organic farming methods are used in the cultivation of organic wine. Some practices such as the use of green manure, cover crops, grazing and livestock manure, water conservation, crop rotation, and use of renewable resources ensure it.
More Nutrients
Wine, for example, has in its list of health effects, antibiotic, and antioxidant action. It is due to the use of organic ingredients that better conserve their nutritional properties.
This is mainly due to polyphenols, such as resveratrol, the main substance found in the skin of red grapes. This substance helps to lose weight, gives more health to the heart, and increases longevity.
