UV-treated wine is a first

The first UV-treated wine is due to be released later this year following successful trials in South Africa.

The wine is produced by L'Ormarins wine estate in Franschhoek and is treated by a UV (Ultra Violet) light machine that kills unwanted microbes and yeasts, reducing the need to add sulphites during the winemaking process.

The Surepure machine they are using has 40 turbulators which mix the wine to ensure all of it is exposed to the UV lamps. It takes about 22 seconds for the wine to travel through the machine and can process 4,000 litres in one hour. It apparently removes any sulphury tastes and give the wine a more natural and full flavour.

It could be good news for some wine drinkers who blame sulphites for allergic reactions and headaches.