How to store wine without sulphites?

In recent years, more and more wine enthusiasts have approached the world of natural, organic wines and, in particular, wines without added sulphites. The choice to produce or consume a sulphite-free wine comes from the desire to savor a more authentic, less manipulated product, capable of truly telling the story of the territory and the vintage from which it comes. However, this choice also requires greater attention in the management and conservation of the bottles. In fact, it is natural to ask yourself how to preserve wine without sulphites, given that the absence of these preservatives makes the product much more delicate.

Sulphites play an important role in protecting wine from oxidation and bacterial contamination. In their absence, wine is more vulnerable to external agents and risks deteriorating much more easily if not carefully stored. This is why those who choose to buy sulphite-free wines must know some good practices to guarantee their quality over time.

The importance of temperature in preserving sulphite-free wine

The first fundamental aspect for correctly storing a sulphite-free wine is temperature control. Wine, in general, is afraid of temperature changes, but those without sulphites are even more sensitive. An ideal temperature is around 12-16 degrees Celsius, maintained constantly and without sudden fluctuations.

An environment that is too hot accelerates the oxidation process and can quickly lead to a loss of freshness, aromas and taste balance. Likewise, temperatures that are too low can damage the structure of the wine, particularly if freezing occurs. The ideal would be to have a natural cellar or, alternatively, a refrigerated cellar designed specifically for storing wine.

Light and Humidity

Light represents another silent enemy for sulphite-free wines. UV rays accelerate the aging of wine and can irreversibly alter its organoleptic profile. Storing wine in a dark environment or in bottles wrapped in protective materials is a wise choice. Dark glass bottles help limit the impact of light, but they are not enough on their own.

Humidity also plays its role in correct preservation. A humidity rate between 60% and 80% is ideal for keeping the cork elastic and ensuring a good closure of the bottle. A dry cork risks letting oxygen penetrate, accelerating the deterioration of the wine, while an excess of humidity could encourage the formation of mould. Humidity management is therefore essential if you want to preserve the vitality of a sulphite-free wine.

The position of the bottle

The location in which the bottle is stored also affects the longevity of a sulphite-free wine. Ideally, the bottle should be kept in a horizontal position. This allows the wine to remain in contact with the cork, preventing it from drying out and losing elasticity. A well-hydrated cork protects the wine from air infiltration and allows controlled micro-oxygenation, essential for slow and natural maturation.

Placing the bottles on special shelves or stable racks, away from vibrations or sources of continuous movement, also helps to maintain the quality of the wine unaltered. Wine needs tranquility to evolve peacefully over time, and this is even more true for wines without sulphites, which do not have the “”safety net”” offered by these preservatives.

How long can a wine without sulphites be kept?

Another question that often arises is how long a sulphite-free wine can be stored. The answer varies depending on the type of wine. White wines, generally more fragile, should be consumed within one or two years of harvest in order to best appreciate their freshness and vitality. Red wines, especially if structured and well vinified, can have a longer life, even three or four years, provided that the conservation has been impeccable.

Then there are exceptional cases of natural wines which, thanks to extremely careful work in the vineyard and cellar, manage to age wonderfully even without added sulphites. However, these are rare products and require specific skills from both the producer and the consumer in the conservation phase.

How to understand if a wine without sulphites has been stored poorly

Sometimes, despite all the attention, it can happen that a wine without sulphites presents defects due to less than optimal storage. The most common signs are the smell of vinegar, a dull or brownish color, and a loss of freshness on the palate. The wine may be oxidized or have an unpleasant taste reminiscent of a damp cellar or wet cardboard.

When opening a bottle of sulphite-free wine, it is always a good idea to observe and smell the wine before tasting it. If you notice obvious alterations, it is likely that storage was not ideal or that the wine was already compromised.

Understanding how to preserve wine without sulphites means respecting the living and changing nature of a product which, without chemical additives, expresses the bond with the land and the work of man in an even more authentic way. It is necessary to create an environment that respects the wine, guaranteeing constant temperatures, protection from light, the right humidity and tranquility. With this attention, even a sulphite-free wine can give intense and authentic emotions, telling stories of territories, seasons and expert hands that have been able to accompany it on its journey to our glass.