Lockdown has us thirsty, hungry, grumpy, jumpy – it has us feeling all of the things. How do we get through it? Everyone has a different way of finding joy in times like these. For us, it’s long walks in the fresh air, an online work out, a row of dark chocolate, carbs, and wine. These reasons, and the fact that September is Organic Awareness Month (yes!), with the help of Angove Family Winemakers, we’re rounding up the best vegan Aussie wines you can get your hands on right now, because there’s never been a better month to buy organic!
Why vegan? Why not! Both Certified Organic and vegan wines tick plenty of boxes when it comes to reaping benefits for people and the planet. Free from nasty chemicals like herbicides and fungicides – vegan wines focus on celebrating natural flavours, and according to Tony Ingle, Chief Winemaker at Angove Family Winemakers, “it’s about honing in on the ingredient, which is the grape, and allowing it to shine by doing as little as you possibly can.”
Angove Organic Rose 2020 – Certified Organic | Vegan Friendly | Minimal Preservatives
Produced in Angove’s Nanya Vineyard, located in Paringa, this delicate Rose is Certified Organic and 100% Vegan. Aromas of strawberry, blueberry and crunchy watermelon, with a hint of apple are on the nose. On the palate, it is crisp with strawberry and red berry tasting notes, pairing nicely with spicy Asian food or seafood. RRP: $18
Wild Olive Shiraz 2020 – Certified Organic | Vegan Friendly | Minimal Preservatives
Produced in McLaren Vale, this 100% vegan and Certified Organic Chardonnay features aromas of blackberries, plum, cloves and some oak derived spice. The palate is medium to full bodied, and delivers more dark fruit flavours – blackberry, liquorice and clove with deft oak notes and a hint of peppery spice. RRP: $19.99
Temple Bruer Pinot Noir 2020 – Organic | Vegan Friendly | Preservative Free | Carbon Neutral
Produced from fruit grown in McLaren Vale and Eden Valley, Temple Bruer’s Organic Vegan Pinot Noir has tasting notes of bright strawberry and cherry, with savoury earthy tones. It pairs perfectly with classic French dishes with a light, creamy sauce…. magnifique! RRP: $22
Running with the Bulls Tempranillo 2020 – Vegan Friendly
Produced in. the Barossa Valley, Running with the Bulls showcases traditional Spanish varieties. This Tempranillo has aromas of dark chocolate, black cherry and liquorice, and tasting notes of mulberry, dark chocolate and boysenberry. Pairs well with wild mushroom, thyme and olive oil pasta, or a classic hearty burger. RRP: $23
Warboys Vineyard Shiraz 2018 – Certified Organic | Vegan Friendly | Minimal Preservatives
Looking to impress or just want to treat yourself with something a little luxe? The Warboys Vineyard Shiraz is worth the extra buck! Think hints of chocolate, spice and pepper. This luxurious wine offers plum and red berry notes with blackberry, spice and dark chocolate while being Certified Organic and vegan! RRP: $75
Understanding the difference between Certified Organic and Organic
To put it simply, in Australia you can claim to be ‘organic’ with just 2% of your ingredients being organic. To trust that the products you are buying are truly organic, you need to look for ‘certified organic’. Certification ensures compliance with the national production standard so products, processes and methods can be tracked. Tony recommends looking for the ‘certified organic bud logo’ next time you are in the shops.
