How to Determine If Fermented Fruit Juice is Wine

Wine, a beloved alcoholic beverage, is solely made from grapes. However, there are numerous other alcoholic drinks made from fermented fruit juices. This article provides insight into distinguishing between these drinks and true wine, offering guidance based on taste, storage qualities, and other factors.

The Definition and Characteristics of Wine

Wine is defined as a beverage made from fermented grape juice, and it shares similarities with other forms of fermented foods such as sauerkraut or salami. Unlike bubbling fruit juice, wine goes through a process that makes it stable and suitable for long-term storage.

In Switzerland, shortly after the grape harvest, a type of beverage called Suzer is produced by fermenting grape juice. This drink is enjoyable but is not classified as wine. According to Maureen Downey, who has uncovered several instances of wine forgeries, the process of fermenting concentrated grape juice to create wine changes its stability and shelf life, making it significantly different from mere fruit juice.

Taste and Storage

The taste of a fermented fruit juice can provide clues as to whether it is wine or not. If you can finish the glass, it is more likely to be wine. Cloudiness or a yeasty taste may indicate that the juice needs clarification or that it has gone bad, respectively. True wine should be stable and enjoyable, unlike some fruit juices that may not age well.

Addressing Misconceptions About Wine

Contrary to popular belief, wine is not inherently radioactive. This misconception arises because plants, including grapes, are exposed to cosmic rays and background radiation throughout their growth. However, this level of radioactivity is insufficient to make a difference when it comes to wine. Synthetic alcohol, made from petrochemicals, does not possess this level of radioactivity.

The U.S. law does not require alcohol to be radioactive to be sold. The misconception may arise from connotations of purity and genuineness. However, this trait is not a legal requirement and does not influence the sale or consumption of alcoholic beverages in the U.S.

Identification Based on Labels and Reputation

Labels on wine bottles can provide valuable information. In many countries, it is illegal to use the term "wine" unless the product meets certain criteria set by the country's wine regulations. These labels often indicate the type of grape, fermentation process, and any additives used. Reputation also plays a role; established winemakers have a track record of producing quality wines, which adds to their credibility.

For more precise identification, chemical analyses may be necessary. It can be difficult to distinguish between true wine and fruit juice that has been artificially sweetened and colored. Synthetic wines, often produced from sugars and additives, are hard to differentiate from genuine wine without this scientific approach.

By understanding the characteristics of wine and the nuances of fermentation, consumers can make informed decisions when choosing their beverages. Whether through taste, storage qualities, or scientific analysis, distinguishing wine from other fermented fruit juices is a reliable and informative process.