It’s that time of year when many of us make a concerted effort to do something positive… and surely Veganuary is right up there when it comes to eating and drinking differently.
By switching to plant-based meals, going meat-free and giving up animal products, these healthier lifestyle choices can be complemented with a vegan wine.
And with more and more winemakers veering away from using animal-derived products – notably fish oil, gelatin and egg whites – and choosing non-animal based fining agents in the winemaking process, the selection has never been so impressive.
Here’s how to switch up your vegan recipe with a delicious glass of vegan vino…
1. Terra Organica Sauvignon Blanc 2023, Aconcagua, Chile, £9, Ocado
A hub for organic and vegan still and sparkling wines, Terra Organica donates 1% of its revenue to planet-friendly causes every year – and this bestseller stays true to everything we love about sauvignon blanc. Beaming with citrusy-led herbaceous notes, gooseberry, green pepper and vibrant grassy nuances, alongside an energising mineral streak, it’s a go-to with vegetarian chilli and leafy green salads.
2. M&S Classics Alsace Gewurztraminer 2023, Alsace, France, £10, Ocado
Super seductive with its rose petal bouquet flanked by luminous lychee, this gorgeous gewurztraminer goes with a variety of vegan dishes, but is equally delicious on its own. With lush, exotic fruity flavours enhanced with florals, ginger and sweet spice, it’s one for roasted, root veggies and plant-based Asian recipes such as Teriyaki tofu.
3. Catena Chardonnay 2023, Mendoza, Argentina, £13.99, Waitrose
To make the most of creamy (plant-based) lemon and herb risotto with fresh thyme, this buttery style of chardonnay, with its rich stone fruits, attractive, creamy palate, touch of vanilla and inviting blossomy aromas with mouth-watering acidity, is just the ticket. Butternut squash soup will also stir up the taste buds. An added bonus, the winery is BDA Certified Sustainability.
4. Ramón Bilbao Rioja Crianza 2021, Spain, £10, Tesco
An International Wine Challenge (IWC) Silver medal winner, this tempranillo temptress brings plenty of panache to the table. Stylish and inviting, fragrant aromas of brambly fruits and hints of vanilla oak give way to a seamless palate of concentrated black fruits, underpinned by savoury, oaky nuances and lip-smacking finish. One for a spicy red bean stew.
5. Yalumba ‘Y Series’ Shiraz 2022, South Australia, £11.29 (£7.99 Mix Six), Majestic
Wildly fruity and lots of fun, this silky shiraz teases and delights with bold flavours of opulent blackberry, sun-kissed cherries, peppery spices, rounded off by enticing nuances of blueberries and cassis on the lingering, perfumed finish. Vegetarian and vegan-friendly since 2011, Yalumba is committed to sustainability – and you can taste the happiness in a glass.
6. No1 Chianti Classico Riserva Piccini 2019, Tuscany, Italy, £15.99, Waitrose
Leading the charge for a classic Italian red, this savoury, cherry-scented gem with its plummy, spiced fruits, characteristic spectrum of aromatic dried herbs, earthy undertones and smooth, long finish is downright delicious. A perfect partner with vegan bolognese or pasta alla norma, made with aubergine. Cheers to Veganuary!
