International Wine Brand Launches New Vegan Range Right Down to the Labeling

Originally published March 22, 2019. Updated May 14, 2019. UK-born brand Proudly Vegan Wines is coming to the US.

The brand, made by Broadland Wineries, launched in the UK in March 2018. According to the brand, Proudly Vegan Wines is completely cruelty-free, right “down to the ink and glue and labels.” Broadland Wineries is an established international wine supplier and producer, but Proudly Vegan is the first venture with completely plant-based wine.

According to the press release, the decision to launch in the US comes as a response to data showing that the number of vegans in the nation has increased by 600 percent and 37 percent of individuals are trying to eat more vegan food.

Proudly Vegan’s range includes a Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, and Merlot from Chile’s Central Valley with a Prosecco launch slated for this June.

“There is no reason why vegans shouldn’t enjoy great wine and be 100% confident that the liquid is in line with their diet and lifestyle, without sacrificing quality or authenticity. Vegan foods and flavors are so diverse and deserve an equally varied range of wines to pair with them, at an accessible price point,” said Director of Winemaking and Master of Wine, Dr. Arabella Woodrow

Is Wine Vegan?

Despite common sense assumptions, not all wine is vegan. The issue lies in the processing agents. Most wines are clarified to remove certain molecules that can make the wine hazy. Fining agents are used to produce a brighter beverage, and sometimes these agents come from animals. Common animal-based fining agents include casein (a milk protein), albumin (egg whites), gelatin (animal bones), and isinglass (a fish bladder protein).

These ingredients are not added to the wine, as they tend to precipitate out with the unwanted molecules; however, there is a slight chance a small amount may be absorbed into the wine. What’s more, wine-makers do not have to note these animal-based agents on their label, since they are technically not ingredients. This leads to much confusion and uncertainty for conscious consumers who just want to relax with a glass (or two) of pinot.

As more consumers are beginning to ask for transparency, wine-makers are turning to vegan-friendly fining agents, such as bentonite and activated charcoal. A few companies are forgoing the agents altogether and letting the wine stabilize naturally. These natural wines are typically labeled as ‘not fined’ or ‘not filtered.’

Dr. Woodrow, told Drinks Retailing, “The bold Proudly Vegan branding, with clear labeling, will also help consumers find that they want easily in store instead of having to scrutinize everyto make sure.”

Proudly Vegan Wines are now available in the US