Which Wine is Most Acidic? A Guide for Acid Reflux Sufferers

All wine is acidic — pH typically ranges from 2.5 to 4.5, with 7 being neutral. The primary acids in wine are tartaric, malic, and citric. Acidity is fundamental to how a wine looks and tastes: high-acid wines taste crisper and more refreshing; low-acid wines feel rounder and softer. For people who suffer from acid reflux or GERD, the acidity of wine can be a significant factor in triggering symptoms.

Which wines are most acidic?

White wines are generally more acidic than reds. Sweet whites are typically the most acidic overall. Among still wines, the most acidic styles include Sauvignon Blanc (particularly from cool climates like the Loire Valley), Riesling, Pinot Grigio, and Champagne/sparkling wines. Lower-acid reds include Grenache, Merlot, and Mourvèdre — fuller, rounder styles from warmer climates.

Wines from warmer climates tend to be lower in acidity because grapes ripen more fully, converting acids to sugars before harvest. Grapes from cool-climate regions retain more natural acidity. If you're prone to acid reflux, wines from southern France, Spain, Australia, South Africa, and California are generally lower in acid than their counterparts from the Loire Valley, Burgundy, or Germany.

Alcohol and acid reflux

The acidity of the wine is one factor — but alcohol itself is a primary trigger for acid reflux regardless of wine style. Alcohol relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for stomach contents to reflux upward, and increases stomach acid production. If you experience frequent acid reflux after wine, the quantity consumed may matter more than the wine style. Drinking with food, choosing lower-ABV wines, and avoiding eating immediately before drinking can all help.

Shop lower-acid wine styles at DrinkWell

• El Ninot de Paper Grenache Shiraz — warm-climate Grenache/Shiraz blend, naturally lower acid, £9.99
• Escena Rioja — Tempranillo, southern Spain, moderate acidity, £12.49
• Viña Mariposa Tinto — Garnacha/Tempranillo, warm Spanish climate, £12.49
• Full low calorie red wine collection

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