For many vegans and plant-based enthusiasts, finding suitable wine can be surprisingly challenging. Traditional winemaking often involves animal-derived fining agents like egg whites, gelatin, or isinglass. Fortunately, the UK market now offers an impressive selection of vegan-friendly wines that won’t break the bank. Here’s my guide to affordable vegan wines you can easily find across Britain.
Why Aren’t All Wines Vegan?
Before diving into recommendations, it’s worth understanding why many wines aren’t vegan. During production, winemakers use fining agents to remove unwanted particles, improving clarity and flavor. Traditionally, these agents included:
- Egg whites (albumin)
- Fish bladder (isinglass)
- Gelatin
- Casein (milk protein)
Vegan wines use alternative fining agents like bentonite clay, activated charcoal, or plant-based options—or skip fining altogether.
Supermarket Finds Under £10
Tesco
- Tesco Finest Soave (£7-8) – A crisp Italian white with notes of peach and almond
- Tesco Côtes du Rhône (£6-7) – A smooth, medium-bodied red that pairs brilliantly with plant-based pasta dishes
Sainsbury’s
- Taste the Difference Languedoc Red (£7-8) – Bold and fruity with a hint of spice
- Sainsbury’s House Sauvignon Blanc (£5-6) – An incredible value vegan white with zesty citrus notes
Aldi
- Exquisite Collection Argentinian Malbec (£6-7) – Rich and full-bodied with plum and blackberry flavors
- Vinho Verde (£5-6) – Light, slightly effervescent Portuguese white, perfect for summer
Asda
- Extra Special Pinot Grigio (£6-7) – Dry and refreshing with subtle pear notes
- Extra Special Chilean Merlot (£7-8) – Smooth red with chocolate and dark fruit flavors
Co-op
- Irresistible Fairtrade Malbec (£7-8) – Ethically sourced and vegan-friendly with rich berry flavors
- Truly Irresistible Prosecco (£8-9) – A celebratory vegan fizz at a reasonable price
Specialist Options Under £15
Majestic Wine
- Definition Chenin Blanc (£10-12) – South African white with honeyed notes and balanced acidity
- Les Jamelles Pinot Noir (£9-10) – Lighter red with cherry and raspberry notes
Online Specialists
- Vintage Roots Organic Tempranillo (£10-11) – Organic, vegan Spanish red
- Waitrose Loved & Found Arinto (£8-9) – Portuguese white with citrus and mineral character
How to Identify Vegan Wines
Finding vegan wines is getting easier:
- Look for “vegan” or “vegan friendly” on the label
- Check for the Vegan Society trademark
- Use apps like Barnivore to scan bottles in-store
- Many supermarkets now label their own-brand wines as vegan where applicable
The Rise of Vegan Winemaking
The UK vegan wine market is growing rapidly. Many winemakers are switching to vegan production methods not just to cater to vegans but because modern plant-based fining agents often produce superior results. This shift means more choice and better quality at affordable prices.
Final Tips
- Don’t assume price equals quality—many excellent vegan wines are available under £10
- Box wines offer even better value and many are vegan (check the label)
- Local wine shops often have knowledgeable staff who can point you to vegan options
- Consider joining a vegan wine club for regular deliveries of vetted vegan wines
With supermarkets and wine merchants increasingly labeling their vegan options, enjoying cruelty-free wine doesn’t require a special trip or premium budget. Next time you’re shopping, keep this guide handy and explore the wonderful world of affordable vegan wines available throughout the UK.