Veganuary & Vegan Wine Pairing

Veganuary: A Good or Bad Thing for Wine Lovers?

Veganuary is here, and if you’re taking on the challenge to cut back on meat and dairy, what does that mean for your wine drinking?
Surprisingly, not all wines are vegan – in fact, some aren’t even suitable for vegetarians. If you’re looking to reduce your animal product consumption this January (or beyond), it’s worth considering what’s in your glass.

At Balfour, we’re proud to say that all our wines, beers, and ciders are vegan-friendly. And there are some incredible pairings to be had with vegan dishes. Read on to find out more.

What Makes a Wine Vegan?

It all comes down to fining. During the winemaking process, residue (like leftover yeast and other particles) can be left in the liquid. To remove this, winemakers use fining agents, which vary in their origins

Non-Vegan Options:

Some traditional fining agents include isinglass (a fish-derived substance), which makes the wine unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans. Other common agents include egg whites or casein (a milk protein), making wines vegetarian but not vegan.

Vegan-Friendly Fining:

Vegan wines use alternatives like mineral- or clay-based agents, or sometimes skip fining altogether (common in natural wines). At Balfour, we exclusively use vegan-friendly methods for fining.

What Can I Enjoy with My Vegan Wines?

Pairing wine and food is one of life’s greatest pleasures. At Balfour, we believe in the adage: “What grows together, goes together.” Seasonal vegetables and plant-based dishes can make for unforgettable pairings with our wines.
Here are three vegan dishes to try, perfectly paired with some of our standout wines:

Liberty’s Bacchus 2023

Pair with a pea and mint risotto topped with a drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil. The crisp, herbal notes of Bacchus beautifully complement the fresh, vibrant flavours of this dish.

Luke’s Pinot Noir 2023

Enjoy with a roasted butternut squash and sage tart, served alongside caramelised onions. The soft red fruit and earthy undertones of Luke’s Pinot enhance the sweetness and warmth of the squash.

Balfour Blanc de Blancs 2018

Pair with a cauliflower and almond velouté, garnished with toasted almonds and truffle oil. The rich creaminess of the velouté balances the crisp, elegant acidity of this vintage sparkling wine.

Whether you’re celebrating Veganuary or simply looking to explore vegan wines and dishes, Balfour Winery offers something for every palate. Here’s to a delicious and compassionate start to 2025.