Most of us have probably suffered after a couple of glasses of wine [1], but what if it's not overindulgence that's actually causing you to react in strange ways? If you find that drinking wine results in shortness of breath or causes you to break out in a rash, this could actually be due to a sensitivity to the sulphites in your wine [2]. There's sulphur dioxide in most wines; it's added to prevent the oxidation process so your wine stays fresh and is still the colour it's supposed to be. Sulphites are used as preservatives across the food and pharmaceutical industries, but studies have shown that some people can be sensitive to them [3] and may suffer from respiratory, dermatological, gastrointestinal, or other symptoms. For these people, a low-sulphite or sulphite-free wine is the best option, and an increased awareness of sulphite sensitivity has led to an increase in the availability of low-sulphite wines in the last few years. We've rounded up the best of the bunch. Many are also organic, and there are even a few supermarket options under a tenner!
Paxton Now Organic Shiraz
Aldi is really leading the charge when it comes to low sulphite wine in supermarkets. This Paxton Now Organic Shiraz [4] (£9) is biodynamic, too.
Senzaniente Pecorino
This Senzaniente Pecorino [5] (£24.50) from Abruzzo is 100% natural and has almost no sediment.
Toscar Tempranillo
Planet Organic has a strong organic wine selection, many of which have no added sulphites. We've gone for this Toscar Tempranillo [6] (£10)
Tampesta Golan Rosado
Rosé wine can be very sweet, so it's not always easy to find a bottle that's low in sulphur. Give this Tampesta Golan Rosado [7] (£12.50) a try.
Running Duck Cabernet Sauvignon
Not only does Running Duck Cabernet Sauvignon [8] (£8) have an excellent name, it's vegan and fair trade as well as having no added sulphites.
Albet i Noya Nosodos Sparkling Wine
Prefer your wine with bubbles? Try this Albet i Noya Nosodos Sparkling Wine [9] (£19).
Chateau Maris Savoir Vieillir Miner
If you're going to go for low sulphites, go all out with this Chateau Maris Savoir Vieillir Miner [10] (£17), made in what's reportedly "one of the five most environmentally friendly wineries in the world".
Earth's Essence Chenin Blanc
This is probably the cheapest organic wine on the block: Earth's Essence Chenin Blanc [11] (£6), which has no added sulphites.
Üllo Wine Purifier
Want to keep drinking your favourite wine but also remove some of its sulphites? Try the Üllo Wine Purifier [12] (£70). It might even make a rough bottle of red a little more drinkable.