Tag: Fining

Tannins are phenolic compounds found naturally in grape skins, seeds, and stems, and they are responsible for the astringent, sometimes bitter taste in red wine. Knowing how to remove tannins from grapes is key to managing the texture and overall balance of your finished product, whether for winemaking or juice production.

While prosecco is made from grapes, a recent survey found that over 60% of consumers were unaware that many wines, including prosecco, are not strictly vegan. This is because animal-derived products are often used during the clarification process, known as fining.

Not all wine is vegan, a fact that surprises many, and a key reason for this is the use of animal products, including milk protein, during the fining process. In traditional winemaking, these substances are used to clarify and stabilize the wine, but their use means that trace amounts can remain in the final product. This is particularly important for individuals with milk protein allergies or those following a vegan diet.

Most people assume champagne, being made from grapes, is inherently vegan, but surprisingly, the vast majority are not. The vegan status of champagne is determined not by its ingredients but by the fining process used to clarify the wine, a critical consideration for any follower of a vegan nutrition diet.