Wine intolerance: causes, symptoms and solutions

Wine intolerance is an increasingly widespread problem, which can manifest itself with unpleasant symptoms after consuming red or white wine. Although it is often confused with an allergy, intolerance to wine has different causes, linked to the presence of sulphites, histamines and other chemical compounds. In this article we see how wine intolerance manifests itself, what the symptoms are and which alternatives to choose to continue enjoying wine without problems.

How does wine intolerance manifest itself?

Wine intolerance presents itself with a series of symptoms that vary from person to person. Some of the main causes are:

• Sulphites: preservatives used to stabilize wine, they can cause adverse reactions.
• Histamines: substances produced by fermentation, present above all in red wines.
• Ethyl alcohol: some people develop a sudden intolerance to alcohol, with symptoms similar to an allergic reaction.
• Tannins: natural compounds present in the grape skin and in the wood of the aging barrels.

What problems do sulphites cause?

Sulphites are among the main causes of wine intolerance. Some common symptoms related to sulfite sensitivity include:

• Headache
• Respiratory problems, especially in asthmatics
• Hives and itching
• Nausea and gastrointestinal disorders

If you suspect you are intolerant to sulphites, and want to know more about sulphites in wine, read our in-depth study: wine without sulphites: everything you need to know .

Red wine intolerance: main symptoms

Red wine is often associated with more pronounced intolerances than white wine, due to the high concentration of tannins and histamines. The most common symptoms include:

• Headache or migraine after a few sips
• Facial redness (skin flush)
• Nasal congestion or difficulty breathing
• Abdominal bloating or digestive disorders

If you notice these symptoms, you may want to opt for organic wine or natural wine, which contain fewer chemical additives and may be more tolerable.

White wine intolerance: specific symptoms

White wine intolerance is less common, but can still manifest with symptoms similar to those of red wine. However, as white wine is richer in sulphites, the most frequent symptoms include:

• Skin reactions (hives, itching)
• Feeling of heat and redness
• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Fatigue and exhaustion

To reduce these effects, you could try an artisanal wine, produced with more natural methods and less chemical interventions.

How to choose a wine suitable for those with intolerances?

If you suffer from wine intolerance, here are some useful tips:

• Avoid wines with high levels of sulphites
• Choose organic, natural or artisanal wines, produced with fewer additives
• Try sulphite-free wines, to reduce the risk of adverse reactions
• Listen to your body: if a wine causes you symptoms, avoid that type or producer

Wine intolerance can be annoying, but it doesn’t mean having to give up the pleasure of a good glass. By knowing the causes and choosing more natural alternatives, it is possible to find the right wine for you. Explore the options available and discover a new way to enjoy wine without the hassle!