How to Check the Ingredients of Wine

Some wines may require some research.

Unlike food, wine in the U.S. is not required to list its ingredients on the label, making it difficult if not impossible for consumers to know exactly what was used in the wine's production. This is because food labeling is controlled by the Food and Drug Administration, while wine labeling is controlled by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau. Some wine labels contain a list of sulfates, but some argue the labels should also contain ingredients used in processing. However, others argue listing ingredients would give away wine maker's secrets.

Instructions

1. Look on the back label of any wine bottle sold in the U.S. You should see the phrase "contains sulfates" or you should see a list of sulfates. Check the list to determine if you are allergic or prefer not to drink any of the sulfates.

2. Scan the label for ingredients. While wine makers are not required to list ingredients, some producers have chosen to do.

3. Search for the name of the wine maker on the Internet and look for a contact phone number. If you are able to reach a representative, ask the company to provide you with a list of ingredients in the wine, and a list of ingredients used for processing the wine. Wine companies are not required to provide you with this information, and if they choose not to, it is your decision whether or not to drink the wine.

4. Make a note that two main wine ingredients are grapes and sulfur dioxide. If you are allergic to either, do not drink wine in general.

References

• Lehrman Beverage Law: Ingredient Labeling on Wine
• The Seattle Times: Food & Wine; "What's in Your Wine - And Should They Tell You?"; Corie Brown; May 2007
• Wine Lovers Page: Ingredient Labeling