A tasting room question that leads to some investigation

A recent customer asked if our wines contained any sulfites.  'Hhhmm, yes some of them do,' I answered.  'Okay, I need to avoid those, those wines will give me a major headache since I'm allergic to them, so don't pour me any of those,' he said.  Noted!  But, his simple request sent me on a research mission. 

Does a sulfite allergy really exist?

Is the allergic reaction a headache?

Do ALL wines contain sulfites?

As we approach one of the biggest drinking celebrations in our culture (New Year's Eve), I thought I'd shed a bit of light for those of you looking to avoid starting 2012 with a pounding headache.

Let's start with what is a sulfite.  Simply put, it's a type of acid that is added to various foods, beverages, and pharmaceuticals for the purpose of preservation.  It's common in wine, but it's also commonly used in dried fruit.

Sulfite allergies really do exist in 1 out of 100 people.  However a real allergic response is not a headache.  It can be as minor as a rash to something as major as loss of consciousness. Typically the reaction is in the asthmatic category.

So now we have released the headache from the sulfite idea, what does cause the quick onset of a headache after drinking certain wines (most commonly the ones that are red in color).  Substances within the wine itself such as histamines, tyramine, and phenolic flavonoids can, and likely are, the culprits.  The good news is that taking aspirin or ibuprofin prior to drinking wine can significantly reduce any ill effects caused by these substances.  Also worth noting is that slipping in a cup of black tea during the course of wine drinking can also reduce any negative reactions.

So now we all know!  Happy 2012 from Lost Creek Winery where we are looking at some exciting changes in the coming year!  Stay tuned!