Vinceremos Organic Wine Blog

In recent years customers have often come to us wanting to know if there are indeed any benefits in drinking red wine.  The understanding that organic wine is more often than not healthier (because there are fewer chemicals used in its production) is only the start of the response as research undertaken over the last few years has indicated that there may be a benefit to drinking red wine over white – this is not to say that only organic red will suffice, but it certainly gives you a head start!

Scientists have always pondered over how the French could have diets that are known to be rich in fats and yet the incidence of heart disease in the country is significantly low – the most obvious factor that they could come up with was that the French regularly drank red wine with their meal, so research began into what chemicals may be present that could reduce fat levels.  Research has indicated that red wine is higher in antioxidants (in particular one known as Resveratrol) which have an anti-clotting effect in our blood – this could potentially reduce the cases of heart disease.  Furthermore Resveratrol has also been linked to the prevention of diabetes and some forms of cancer – however most of the research has only been conducted in the lab so as yet there is no long-term evidence to support the latest theories.   

Resveratrol is found in the vines, roots, seeds and stalks of a grape, however it is in its highest concentration in the skins (approximately 50-100 micrograms per gram [Melissa Q.B. McElderry, M.S., R.D.]).  The longer the skins are in contact during fermentation the higher the level of extracted Resveratrol, therefore, those wines that are higher in tannins (the fuller bodied wines) are deemed to be the ones to drink, this will explain why many of you will probably have heard that Cabernet Sauvignon is better for you.

Before you get carried away there is one thing to note: The most extensive research seems to suggest that you would have to drink in excess of 100 bottles a day to gain huge benefits from the wine   Since this would do more damage than good to your body most experts seem to think that moderation is the way forward and drinking red wines which are higher in tannins may, over time, be beneficial.