Organic and Vegan Wines in Portugal: A Growing Trend

Wine production in Portugal boasts a rich tradition that dates back thousands of years. While the focus has always been on quality and taste, in recent years, we’ve seen a shift in how wine is produced. More and more wineries are embracing sustainability and ethical production processes, leading to an increase in organic and vegan wines. In this blog, we dive into the world of organic and vegan wines in Portugal and discuss the rise of these special categories in supermarket shelves.

What’s the Difference Between Regular, Organic, and Vegan Wines?

Before we dive into the numbers, it’s essential to understand the differences between regular, organic, and vegan wines.

Regular wines

are produced using grapes that may be exposed to chemical pesticides, fertilizers, and other synthetic agents during the growing process. During vinification, animal products, such as egg whites (used for fining the wine), may also be used, which means these wines are not vegan.

Organic wines

are made from grapes grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. The focus is on preserving natural ecosystems and soil health. Organic wine production follows strict guidelines monitored by certification bodies. While organic wines are often vegan, this is not always the case, as animal products can still be used in the fining process.

Vegan wines

on the other hand, contain no animal products, not only in the wine itself but also throughout the production process. This means winemakers use alternatives to animal products, such as bentonite (a type of clay) or activated charcoal, to fine the wine. Vegan wines can be produced both organically and conventionally.

The Percentage of Organic and Vegan Wines in Portugal

While Portugal is globally renowned for its wines, organic and vegan options still represent a relatively small portion of the market.

- Organic wines are estimated to account for 5-10% of the total wine production in Portugal. This percentage has steadily increased in recent years due to growing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly products. More and more winegrowers are converting to organic practices, but it takes several years for the old soil to be "cleaned." Until that process is complete, they cannot officially label their wine as organic, even if it’s already 90% organic.

- Vegan wines are harder to quantify, but they are estimated to make up 2-5% of the Portuguese market. Many wines that meet vegan standards are not yet labeled as such, making them difficult to identify.

- Vegan and organic wines occupy a niche market. The share of wines that are both vegan and organic is estimated to be less than 2% of total production.

These figures may sound low, but they reflect a growing trend. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the impact their choices have on the environment and animal welfare, driving the demand for these special wines.

Organic and Vegan Wines in Supermarkets

What was once exclusive to specialty shops and organic stores is now increasingly making its way into mainstream supermarkets. More and more supermarkets in Portugal and worldwide are beginning to stock organic and vegan wines in their aisles. This shift is not just driven by growing demand, but also by the increased production and availability of these wines.

Supermarkets such as Apolonia, Continente, Pingo Doce, and Lidl (see photos) already carry a range of organic wines, and vegan options are becoming more visible as well. This makes it easier for consumers to make ethical choices without needing to visit specialty stores.

Why Choose Organic and Vegan Wines?

The choice for organic and vegan wines goes beyond taste. For many consumers, these choices are tied to their values regarding sustainability, animal welfare, and health.

Sustainability: Organic wines support sustainable farming practices that improve soil health and biodiversity. They avoid the use of harmful chemicals that can impact the environment.

Animal Welfare: Vegan wines are free of animal products, aligning with the beliefs of those who do not want to use or consume animals in their diet or lifestyle.

Health: While there is still debate over the health benefits, some consumers believe that organic wines, because they are free from synthetic chemicals, are a healthier option.

Conclusion Portuges wine blog

The rise of organic and vegan wines in Portugal is a sign of changing consumer preferences. While the percentages are still relatively low, the market is steadily growing. Supermarkets play a crucial role in making these wines accessible to the general public, making it easier for consumers to make choices that align with their values.

Whether you’re a wine lover looking to discover new flavors or someone who makes conscious choices for the environment and animal welfare, the world of organic and vegan wines has something to offer everyone. Cheers to a sustainable future!

Tips for winemakers: If your wine is organic and/or vegan, make sure to display the certification clearly on the front of the bottle. Consumers often have to turn every bottle around to discover what kind of wine it is.

Tip for restaurant owners: Clearly indicate on the menu which wines are vegan and/or organic, making it easy for consumers to find what they are looking for.