Vegan and Vegetarian-friendly Wines

First things first: what exactly does “vegan” mean? Although countless restaurants describe themselves as such, many people aren't sure what differentiates vegan from vegetarian. Veganism could be described as a lifestyle that respects animals and follows a diet free from foods that are produced using animal-based ingredients.

This brings us to question two: what about wine? Given that grapes are the only ingredient in wine, vegans and vegetarians should be able to drink it...

We've now arrived at point three where things get a bit complicated... Toward the end of the winemaking process, wines are often clarified using fining agents like egg whites, isinglass (fish collagen) or casein. (It might sound gross, but it makes the wine a lot more stable!)

Remember, clarification or fining consists of filtering the wines to enhance their clarity. Contrary to fruit juices, when wines are hazy and full of suspended particles, it often means they're not in great shape.

Point four: don't panic. The vegan and vegetarian market isn't completely cut off from the joys of wine thanks to the existence of highly effective mineral-based fining agents: bentonite, activated charcoal, Kieselsol and PVPP are all recognized organic alternatives that do a good job in terms of clarification.

Now it's time to enjoy the wine. Take note of these Torres wines and serve them at your holiday gathering this year. Now your vegan brother-in-law will have no excuse to sit out the family toast!

Habitat white and red, a sensory delight made even better by its environmentally-friendly commitment.

Critically acclaimed wines like Senat del Montsant, Mas Borras, Mas La Plana, Perpetual and Reserva Real also make the list—splendid gift ideas with which to surprise our vegetarian friends who might not eat meat, but, like the rest of us, do appreciate truly great wines.

Eating healthy is a growing concern among many and as a result most modern-day food products not only focus on flavor, but on protecting and caring for our environment. Vintage after vintage, we can appreciate this philosophy of transparency about our food and drink, providing us with a clear understanding of the production process behind what we consume every day.

Meritxell Falgueras