Organic wine is defined by the use of grapes grown in accordance with principles of organic farming, which excludes the use of artificial chemical fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides, and herbicides. The goal of organic viticulture is to maintain the health of the soil, ecosystem, and people, and to reduce the impact on the environment. Organic farming practices include the use of natural substances and physical, mechanical, or biologically based farming methods to the fullest extent possible.

When it comes to the winemaking process itself, organic wine regulations also restrict the types and amounts of additives and processing aids that can be used. This includes limits on the use of sulfites, which are natural compounds that act as preservatives and antioxidants. Sulfites are often added to wine to prevent it from oxidizing and spoiling, but in organic wines, the amount added must be lower than in conventional wines, if they are added at all. The specific rules regarding sulfite addition and other winemaking practices can vary by country and certifying organization, but the overarching goal is to ensure that the wine is produced in a way that respects organic principles.

In the European Union, for example, organic wine is subject to EU regulations that define specific practices for organic viticulture and winemaking. In the United States, the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) sets the standards for organic wine, including the prohibition of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the requirement for organic certification of the vineyard and winemaking process.

It's important to distinguish between "organic wine" and "wine made with organic grapes." The latter refers to wines made from organically grown grapes but may not adhere to organic standards in the winemaking process, particularly with regard to sulfite addition. Labels and certifications can help consumers identify wines that meet organic standards in their region.

Overall, organic wine aims to offer consumers a product that is produced in a more environmentally friendly and sustainable manner, with fewer synthetic inputs from vineyard to bottle.