The Stellar Health Benefits of Wine, Explained

Beyond its endless variety of styles and flavor profiles, wine is also a drink with fantastic health benefits. In fact, these benefits have historically been adopted in some cultures, with impressive results. In France, the rate of heart disease is relatively low – a curious fact given the country’s notorious love for butter and cheese. This phenomenon is known as French paradox. For some health experts, French consumption of red wine is the answer to this conundrum. According to Mayo Clinic, when consumed in moderation, the high level of antioxidants in wine can help lower bad cholesterol levels.

But not all wines are created equal. AT ETTOR, founder and experienced winemaker Ettore Biraghi has made high quality wines his passion in life. A certified organic winery in Mendocino, California, ETTORE is focused on sustainable farming practices with an emphasis on producing the best grapes for the wine industry. As an expert on all wine, Biraghi is here to share his vast knowledge about the health benefits of this alcoholic beverage.

“Wine is a great way to keep morale and happiness! Said Biraghi. “Drinking wine in moderation can be healthy, especially when it is an organic wine from a good source like ETTORE, and it is best to taste it in good company! “

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The health benefits of wine

While each type of wine has slightly different health benefits, all contain antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that protect cells against molecules called free radicals. These unstable molecules can damage cell membranes and DNA, causing diseases like cancer and heart disease. Consumption of foods rich in antioxidants is thought to counteract the effects of free radicals. One type of antioxidant common in wine is resveratrol. This particular antioxidant is believed to be particularly effective in reducing bad cholesterol and blood clots. However, the studies of resveratrol are not one-sided. While some researchers have positively linked resveratrol to reduced heart disease, other studies have not been able to establish a positive correlation.

Although all wines contain antioxidants, the level can vary depending on the type. For example, red wine contains a significantly higher level of antioxidants than white wine. However, that doesn’t mean that white wine doesn’t have its own list of health benefits. In fact, red and white wines are believed to help lower cholesterol, heart disease, and stroke risk. There is also another type of wine that is particularly beneficial for health: orange wine. This drink is made from white grapes with skin, including seeds, in contact with the juice. The result is a vibrant orange-hued wine that is not only delicious, but also packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Moderation is essential to the health benefits of all types of wine. As a general rule, ETTORE recommends drinking about two glasses per day. Combined with a balanced diet, this moderate level of consumption is ideal for any healthy lifestyle.

What makes organic wine different?

Today, many consumers and food producers are very concerned about the sustainability of their products. The wine industry is no different. The production of organic wine is centered on cultivation practices respectful of the environment while producing a wine without chemical residues.

“While I can’t speak to other growers’ processes, our process works to respect the soil and the characteristics of the grapes,” Biraghi said. “With a minimum of tillage in the cellar, we try to respect the natural process of wine production by following the natural attitude of the different grapes.”

At ETTORE, they follow the organic vineyard and cellar processes defined by the CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers). CCOF certifications were founded in 1973 and predate any federal legislation on organic practices. In fact, the CCOF certification standards are the foundation of the now common USDA organic certification.

There is debate among experts on the health benefits of organic farming over conventional farming. Some experts remain skeptical, stating that there is no significant evidence that supports increased nutrition in organic foods. However, if it is produced with careful organic practices, the environmental benefits are undeniable. For fruits like wine grapes, the lack of chemicals in the growing process is a huge selling point for drinkers. For many people, drinking wine without conventional pesticides is a popular health benefit.

ETTORE wine recommendations

ETTORE offers a great selection of delicious red and white wines that are rich in antioxidants. For red wine, a great option is their Signature 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon. Made from organic red grapes, this wine is dark and rich, with hints of cream plum and a hint of juniper berry. It’s a complex wine that is fantastic on its own or served with the centerpiece of a festive meal. Biraghi also recommends their Ettore Rosso (a blend of Cabernet, Petit Verdot and Merlot), which has a high concentration of tannins and antioxidants. Like most red wines, Rosso is a great pairing with red meat like a dry-aged rib eye tomahawk.

ETTORE even offers a range of wines aimed at people sensitive to sulphites. This range, called ETTORE Zero, offers both red wine and white wine without sulphites (less than 10 ppm). An exceptional option in the Zero range is Chardonnay Zero, a silky white wine with flavors of pear, fig and hazelnut. Biraghi likes to pair this white wine with spicy seafood, a classic combination. “It’s powerful and creamy, therefore able to combine well with various spices,” said Biraghi.

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