Is Wine Vegan? 2025 Guide to the Best Vegan Canned Wines You Need to Try

If you’ve recently chosen to adopt a vegan lifestyle, you may be asking, “Is wine vegan?” After all, it’s simply fermented grapes, isn’t it? While it might seem like a simple “yes,” the truth is a bit more complex. Surprisingly, not all wine is vegan!

But don’t worry! In this article, we’re going to break down all you need to know about vegan wines, including what factors render a wine non-vegan, how to confidently select vegan red and white wines, and where to discover the best choices.

Is Wine Vegan?

You might see wine as just fermented grape juice, but it’s quite fascinating to learn that some animal products, like milk protein, egg whites, and even fish bladder extract, can find their way into the wine production process.

One stage called “fining,” which helps to clarify and stabilise wine, often involves using these animal proteins. Unfortunately, these ingredients aren’t always mentioned on wine labels, which can make it a bit challenging (to say the least) for vegans trying to choose the right bottle in the wine aisle. 

 

Why Isn’t All Wine Vegan or Vegetarian?

What Is Fining?

Fining is a process that happens after fermentation, helping to ensure that the wine is clear and delightful to sip! During this step, winemakers work to remove any unwanted compounds like proteins, tannins, or phenolics that could affect the wine’s flavour or cause a cloudy appearance. They add special agents that cling to these particles, making it easy to filter them out.

However, this process raises some important considerations for our vegan and vegetarian friends!

Animal-Derived Fining Agents

 

Depending on the wine style and production method, different animal-based substances may be used to clarify and stabilise the wine. Here’s a quick guide to the most common ones:

• Isinglass: Made from fish bladders, often used in white and sparkling wines for a clear, bright finish. Not vegetarian or vegan.
• Gelatin: Comes from animal bones or skin, and is used to reduce bitterness in both red and white wines. Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
• Egg whites (Albumin): Common in red wines to smooth out tannins. Okay for vegetarians, not for vegans.
• Casein: A milk-based protein used mostly in white wines to enhance clarity. Vegetarian-friendly, but not vegan.

These ingredients don’t stay in the final wine, but their use means the wine isn’t plant-based. That’s why vegan-certified wines or unfined wines are the safest bet if you’re avoiding animal products. 

How to Check Vegan and Vegetarian Wines

Selecting a wine that suits your dietary lifestyle can be a breeze, especially if you know what to look for! Although wine labels might not clearly indicate whether animal-derived products are involved, there are some easy tips to help you choose a vegan or vegetarian-friendly bottle with confidence. Let’s explore how to do this:

Look for “Unfined” or “Unfiltered” on the Label

If you're looking for a plant-based wine, a great tip is to check the label for phrases like “unfined” or “unfiltered.” This indicates that the wine hasn’t undergone the fining process, or at least hasn’t used animal-derived agents in that process. In addition, some winemakers also opt for vegan-friendly agents, such as bentonite clay, and they’ll often highlight this on the label if they do!

Spot the Certified Vegan or Vegetarian Logos

Worried about hidden ingredients? Look for official certification logos on the bottle. In the UK, certifications from organisations like The Vegan Society mean the wine has met strict criteria and contains no animal-derived substances.

Scan the Ingredient List (If Available)

As of December 2023, UK winemakers are required to list ingredients on their labels. This makes it much easier to see whether the wine includes animal-based fining agents. Until this change is fully adopted, ingredients might not always be listed. If they are, check for standard animal-based terms - or use a reference guide to double-check what’s plant-based and what’s not.

Check the Producer’s Website or Social Media

Still not sure? Most reputable wineries will mention whether their products are vegan or vegetarian on their website, FAQ section, or even their social media bios. If you’re buying online, the product description often includes this info too.

Vinito’s Top Picks

Attimo Craft Winery Refosco Canned Red Wine

Fruity, vibrant, with a peppery finish! This Refosco red wine is full of personality, yet super easy to enjoy. Forget corkscrews and wine snobs, just chill it slightly and crack open the can.

Whether you're at a picnic, party, or just want a solo glass, the 200ml size is perfectly portable and just enough to satisfy.

Crafted naturally, canned for convenience. Red wine just got an upgrade.

Canned Wine Co Viognier

Peachy, floral, and buttery-smooth, this Viognier from Languedoc brings sunshine to every sip. Packed with ripe stone fruit and a soft, velvety texture, it’s everything you love about a bold white wine, now in a sleek 250ml can.

It’s organic, vegan-friendly, and pairs perfectly with seafood, roast chicken, or a cheese board.

Just chill, pop, and enjoy wherever you are.

The Copper Crew Rosato

Bursting with cherry, summer berries, and a hint of magnolia, this Italian rosé is as vibrant as it is refreshing. Made from a blend of Primitivo, Negroamaro, Nero di Troia, and Aleatico grapes, it’s smooth, aromatic, and full of character.

The 187ml can is the perfect size for a solo sip, a sunset moment, or sharing something special.

Organic and vegan-friendly, this is the kind of wine that elevates any occasion.

Conclusion

Finding great vegan wine doesn’t have to be hard. With more wineries embracing plant-based methods and convenient canned options, enjoying wine that fits your values is easier than ever. Whether you're into reds, whites, or rosé, there’s a vegan canned wine waiting for you to crack open and enjoy.

FAQ

1. How can I tell if a wine is vegan?
   
   Check the label for “vegan” or “certified vegan” logos. Wines that are unfined or use plant-based agents like bentonite clay also serve as good indicators. If you're uncertain, visit the producer’s website or use resources like Barnivore.
   
   
   
2. Are all organic wines also vegan?
   
   Not necessarily. While organic wines avoid synthetic chemicals, they may still use animal-based fining agents. Always check for vegan certification if you are avoiding animal products.