Spier launches the ground-breaking Noble Song No Added Sulphur Wine Range.
Not so long ago, crafting quality wines without adding sulphur dioxide (SO2) was widely considered close to impossible. Yet, as global trends and consumer demands evolve, our Spier winemakers have turned to experiment with innovative techniques. The result?
Introducing Spier’s new limited-edition Noble Song No Added Sulphur range! Containing 0 mg/l of added SO2 per bottle and available in a Merlot, Pinotage, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, Noble Song is the perfect choice for anyone with a sensitivity to sulphur or on the hunt for something new and exciting. Created by our Cellar Master Johan Jordaan and his talented team in the Spier cellar, here’s everything you need to know about these wines:
What is sulphur dioxide?
Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is a chemical compound that is used in everything from preserved fruit and fruit juices to wine. It prevents oxidation (that is, it stops the juice from turning brown), keeps wine stable (which is important for transportation) and preserves bright, fresh fruit flavours.
Why is sulphur dioxide in my wine?
Sulphur dioxide occurs naturally in the making of wine. It is usually added to preserve flavour and freshness and extend shelf life.
Is sulphur dioxide bad for you?
No, in small quantities such as a traditionally-made bottle of wine, most people can safely consume the SO2 found in wine. This said, an estimated 1% of the population is sensitive to SO2, and for those with asthma who are also sensitive to sulphur dioxide, consuming them can irritate the respiratory tract or cause headaches.
What makes a No Added Sulphur wine different?
Wine will never be 100% sulphur dioxide-free - but we’ve gotten pretty close! For the Noble Song range, no extra sulphur dioxide is added during the winemaking process. To qualify for a no added sulphur certification, the wine has to have very low levels of SO2 - fewer than 10mg/l of total SO2 (a typical red wine has 150mg/l).
Are No Added Sulphur Wines lower in quality?
Not at ALL. The same amount of dedication and quality is required in the vineyard and cellar to make these wines. Some of these wines are even made from 24-year-old bush vines and the grapes are the same ones that go into other premium Spier wines.
Can I try before I buy?
Of course! If you’d like to treat your tastebuds, we invite you to try our new Noble Song Wine & Food seasonal pairing available daily from 1st of March 2022 - May 2022 for R120 per person at the Spier Tasting Room. The tasting features each of the four reds expertly paired with a flavour-enhancing nibble.
If sulphur dioxide preserves the wine, can I still age it?
As all these wines are vintage 2018, we’ve done the ageing for you!
Where can I try the new Noble Song wines?
All four wines (Merlot, Pinotage, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon) are available exclusively from Spier’s tasting room and online store at R150 per bottle. But don’t dilly daddle - as a limited release, we’ve only made 1000 bottles and once these wines are done, they’re done!
To learn more or order these wines, visit here.