What is the lowest sugar in wine? A guide to dry varietals

December 19, 2025 •

4 min read

According to research, a typical glass of dry wine contains less than 1 gram of sugar, which is a stark contrast to the nearly 39 grams found in a can of regular soda. This significant difference in sugar content makes a powerful case for choosing the right type of wine if you are conscious of your sugar intake.

Quick Summary

The lowest sugar wines are typically dry varieties, as fermentation converts most natural grape sugar into alcohol. Key examples include dry reds like Pinot Noir, specific dry whites such as Sauvignon Blanc, and Brut Nature sparkling wines.

Key Points

Dry is best: The lowest sugar wines are categorized as 'dry,' meaning most natural grape sugar has been fermented into alcohol.
Focus on Residual Sugar (RS): The key factor for determining sweetness is residual sugar, measured in grams per liter (g/L). Look for wines with low RS.
Top low-sugar varietals: Excellent choices include Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio.
Brut Nature is the driest bubbly: For sparkling wine, Brut Nature contains the least sugar, followed by Extra Brut and Brut.
Label knowledge is power: Look for terms like 'dry,' 'Brut Nature,' or 'Trocken' on labels to identify low-sugar wines, and use ABV as an additional clue.
Fit for low-carb diets: With less than 1 gram of sugar per glass, dry wines are a suitable choice for those on low-sugar or keto diets.
Calorie source is alcohol: Most calories in dry wine come from the alcohol content, not the minimal residual sugar.

What Determines Sugar Content in Wine?

The amount of sugar in a bottle of wine is determined by a factor known as "residual sugar," or RS. This is the natural grape sugar (primarily glucose and fructose) left in a wine after the fermentation process is complete. During fermentation, yeast consumes these sugars and converts them into alcohol. The longer the fermentation process, the more sugar is consumed, resulting in a drier wine with less residual sugar. Conversely, winemakers can stop fermentation early, either through chilling or the addition of sulfur, to create a sweeter wine with higher RS. In some cases, especially with lower-quality, high-volume commercial wines, grape concentrate or sugar may be added back to enhance flavor and perceived sweetness, a practice that is not always disclosed on the label.

The Lowest Sugar Wine Varietals

For those seeking the lowest sugar options, focusing on dry wines is the best strategy. The following list highlights the varieties known for minimal residual sugar:

Dry Red Wines: These are excellent choices for low-sugar drinking. Some of the best options include:
- Pinot Noir: Typically averages less than 1 gram of sugar per 5-ounce glass.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Averages around 0.9 grams of sugar per 5-ounce glass.
- Merlot: Offers a smooth, low-sugar option, usually around 0.8 grams per 5-ounce glass.
- Syrah/Shiraz: Known for being dry with minimal residual sugar.
Dry White Wines: Crisp and refreshing, these varietals are also great low-sugar choices:
- Sauvignon Blanc: Often contains less than 1 gram of sugar per 5-ounce glass.
- Chardonnay: Unoaked versions are particularly low in sugar, averaging around 0.9 grams per 5-ounce glass.
- Pinot Grigio: A light and dry option, typically with around 1 gram of sugar per 5-ounce glass.
Dry Sparkling Wines: For those who enjoy bubbly, specific labels indicate a very low sugar content:
- Brut Nature: The driest category, with less than 3 grams of residual sugar per liter.
- Extra Brut: Also very dry, containing 0 to 6 grams of sugar per liter.

Decoding the Wine Label for Low Sugar

Since nutritional information isn't standard on wine bottles, knowing what to look for on the label is crucial for identifying low-sugar options. Look for specific terms that indicate dryness:

For still wines: Look for the term "dry" or the German word "trocken" on the label. This signifies a low residual sugar content.
For sparkling wines: Pay attention to the sweetness classifications. The driest are Brut Nature, Extra Brut, and Brut.
Alcohol by Volume (ABV): A higher ABV, typically 13% or more, often suggests less residual sugar, as more sugar was converted to alcohol during fermentation. For German Rieslings, a lower ABV (e.g., 6.5-8%) can indicate a sweeter wine.
Avoid: Sweetness indicators like "late harvest," "doux," or "dessert wine," as these contain very high levels of sugar.

Comparison of Wine Sugar Levels


Wine Type	Sweetness Level	Approx. Sugar per 5 oz Glass
Dry Red (Pinot Noir, Merlot)	Very Dry	<1 gram
Dry White (Sauvignon Blanc)	Very Dry	<1 gram
Brut Nature Sparkling	Very Dry	<0.5 gram
Off-Dry (Gewürztraminer)	Off-Dry	1.4-5 grams
Sweet Riesling	Sweet	5-18 grams
Dessert Wine (Port, Sauternes)	Very Sweet	18+ grams (smaller serving)

Can You Enjoy Wine on a Low-Sugar or Keto Diet?

Yes, absolutely. Dry wines, with their low residual sugar, are generally considered suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets. The low carb count and low sugar content make them a preferred choice over cocktails or other alcoholic beverages with added sugars. The majority of calories in dry wine actually come from the alcohol itself, not the residual sugar. However, moderation is key. A standard serving is 5 ounces, and sticking to this portion size is important for managing sugar and calorie intake. Replacing dessert with a glass of dry wine can also be a good strategy for managing total sugar consumption.

Conclusion

The quest for the lowest sugar wine leads to a straightforward conclusion: the drier the wine, the less sugar it contains. By understanding the concept of residual sugar and learning how to interpret label terminology like "Dry" and "Brut Nature," you can confidently select wines that align with your dietary goals. Dry reds like Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon, dry whites such as Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, and Brut Nature sparkling wines consistently offer the lowest sugar options for mindful drinkers. Making informed choices allows you to enjoy wine as a balanced part of a healthy lifestyle. For a deeper dive into the science, a great resource is Wine Folly's detailed explanation of residual sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wines labeled "Brut Nature" (for sparkling) or bone-dry red and white varieties like Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc tend to have the absolute lowest sugar content, often less than 1 gram per glass.

The difference lies in residual sugar (RS). In dry wine, most sugar is fermented, leaving minimal RS. In sweet wine, fermentation is stopped early, leaving a higher concentration of unfermented sugar.

Look for specific terminology on the label. For still wines, search for 'Dry' or 'Trocken' (German). For sparkling wines, look for 'Brut Nature', 'Extra Brut', or 'Brut'.

No, this is a misconception. While many popular dry reds are low in sugar, many dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay have comparable or even slightly lower sugar levels. The key is to choose dry versions of either.

Yes, dry wines are suitable for a keto diet due to their low residual sugar and carb content. Varieties like Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Brut Nature Champagne are good choices.

Generally, yes. Higher alcohol content indicates that more sugar was converted to alcohol during fermentation, resulting in lower residual sugar levels. Look for wines with an ABV of 13% or higher for a good indication of a dry wine.

Many 'low-calorie' wines are indeed low in sugar. In dry wines, the alcohol contributes most of the calories, so lower alcohol often means lower calories, but always check labels carefully for specific 'low-sugar' claims.

Some high-volume, lower-priced wines have added sugar or grape concentrate for a softer mouthfeel. While not always obvious, a very low price point combined with a noticeably fruity or sweet taste might be an indicator.