Tag: Old world wine

While European winemaking often adheres to stricter regulations on additives and sulfites compared to regions like the United States, there is no scientific consensus that this makes them universally healthier. The health impact of any wine is fundamentally tied to moderate consumption and specific production methods, rather than its geographical origin.

Residual sugar (RS), the leftover grape sugar after fermentation, is the primary determinant of a wine's sweetness. The question of whether European wines have less sugar is more complex than a simple yes or no, depending heavily on winemaking choices and regional climates.

Historically, many European wines have had a lower alcohol content than their counterparts from the New World. This often comes as a surprise to those accustomed to the bolder, higher-alcohol styles prevalent in other parts of the world. Understanding the underlying reasons for this difference reveals much about winemaking traditions, climate, and how wine has evolved.